Construction sites are dangerous workplaces, and accidents still occur in these work areas despite taking the necessary precautions. Working on a construction site exposes workers to several hazards; unfortunately, accidents can happen. Falls are among the most common accidents on construction sites. Though some result in minor injuries, others result in life-changing injuries or fatalities.
If you or your loved one is involved in a construction fall, it’s best to take the proper steps to protect your rights and get compensated, if necessary. One of the most crucial steps is to consult a construction accident lawyer who’ll help you through the complicated legal process and advocate for your rights. Here are six steps to take after a construction fall accident:
1. Seek Medical Attention And Keep Records
The first thing to do after a construction fall is to seek medical attention. Your health and safety come first; you shouldn’t compromise them for any reason. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor and let them examine you. Some severe injuries like concussions and internal bleeding may not show until hours or days later, and it might be too late to treat them.
While obtaining medical care, also start documenting your experience. Keep all medical records, photos of the accident scene, and any written statements related to the incident. These documents will be vital for any future legal actions.
2. Report The Accident
Let your supervisor or employer know about your injury as soon as possible. Don’t delay reporting your mishap, as this might make your employer think your claim is invalid. Reporting the mistake is also important because it will help prevent similar scenarios from happening in the future. It will also be helpful if you need to file a worker’s compensation claim. Be thorough when reporting the accident; include every detail.
3. Gather Evidence
Gather as much evidence about the accident as you can. Evidence includes statements, the contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident, and photos of the scene. Images are essential, especially if your employer failed to provide you with the safety equipment that could prevent the accident. Ensure you keep a detailed record of all your medical expenses for compensation.
4. Consult A Construction Accident Lawyer
As soon as you can, consult a construction accident lawyer. A lawyer will assist you in navigating the complex legal processes while protecting your rights. They’ll also make sure that your case runs smoothly and efficiently. The lawyer will also help you understand your rights and what options you have when it comes to compensation.
Depending on the nature of your accident, a lawyer will help you decide which option is best for you. After a construction fall accident, there are two common actions your lawyer may advise you to take:
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Worker’s Compensation Claim
This government-mandated program provides benefits to those injured on the job or as a result of the job. The benefits from this claim can help you cover lost wages, medical expenses, and any other expenses that resulted from your injury. In general, filing this claim could mean that you’re giving up your right to sue your employer for negligence.
However, laws and regulations can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the case. There might be some exceptions where an employee could still pursue a lawsuit against their employer. For instance, if the employer intentionally caused harm or engaged in gross negligence, a separate legal claim might be possible.
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Personal Injury Lawsuit
If your injury resulted from your employer’s negligence, you might be able to file a lawsuit against them. To win, you must prove beyond any reasonable doubt that your employer is responsible for your injury. Benefits from this lawsuit cover non-economic losses, pain, and suffering caused by your injury and lost wages.
5. Cooperate With The Investigation
Following your accident, your employer, government institutions, and even the insurance company may conduct an investigation. They do this to determine what exactly happened and if there’s any basis for compensation. If you’re called upon to give any relevant information, provide your full cooperation and all the information you can.
Take Into Account
Being involved in a construction fall accident could be a life-changing event for you. It can cause serious injuries, long-term medical expenses, and lost earnings, putting you and your family in a difficult situation. When you take the appropriate steps after your accident, you protect your rights and receive adequate compensation where necessary. These include seeking medical attention, reporting the accident, gathering evidence, and consulting a lawyer.
Cooperating with the investigation and keeping all relevant records also goes a long way in ensuring that you receive adequate compensation. By taking these steps and consulting an experienced attorney, you can get the compensation you deserve and move on without worry or fear.
