Construction accidents can be a widespread occurrence in the construction industry. When they do happen, it is essential to know how to proceed afterwards. Proper first aid can help save lives, and knowing what resources are available will ensure you are not alone in your search for answers. All parties involved must work together to ensure the accident has no long-lasting adverse effects. The injured employees or contractors will need compensation for their injuries, and the employer or contractor will need to ensure that the accident was not their fault.
Types of Construction Accidents
- Structural Failures: These include falling walls and floors, collapsed scaffolding, and fallen objects.
- Subcontractor Accidents: If a subcontractor or supplier is hired for materials or equipment, and that product causes the accident, then the party is liable.
- Machine Failure: These include instances when a worker is injured by improperly maintained machinery or equipment.
- Asbestos Exposure: There are regulations against all kinds of asbestos exposure on the construction site due to its link to cancer and other pulmonary diseases.
- Equipment Accidents: These can be any injuries sustained from construction equipment, including motor vehicles.
8 Things to Do After a Construction Accident
1. Seek Medical Attention
If a worker or subcontractor employee is injured in a construction accident, their priority should be to get help. They will have the right to take time off from the job and to seek medical attention and treatment at their expense. Many insurance companies will pay for those costs if it is determined that the accident was not their fault.
2. Seek Legal Advice
It is essential to read over the contracts, if they were signed, and decide if fault can be held against someone. Also, it is necessary to consult a lawyer if the injury was not made known by the employer or subcontractor promptly. If they disclose it within seven days, they are not liable for any costs incurred due to the injury.
3. Seek Compensation
Those injured should contact the insurance company to see if they have the right to file a claim. They will pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses incurred during their recovery. If that company does not employ the injured party, they can contact a lawyer to help them with the proper steps.
4. Report the Accident
You should report the construction accident to the appropriate agencies, such as OSHA. They will be able to determine if any regulations were broken and who might have been liable for that. They will also help schedule a meeting with the employers or subcontractors involved so they can become aware of how to prevent future accidents from occurring.
5. Take Photos/Videos
Any videos of the accident should be used as evidence if a lawsuit becomes necessary. They might also need to be used if any insurance claims are filed.
6. Consult an Attorney
Any time a construction accident occurs and compensation is needed, legal assistance is advised. An attorney can answer questions about the laws in their jurisdiction and what the steps should be if someone wants to close their case or file a suit. They will also know if the injured party will end up with any damages.
7. Consult OSHA
To maintain the safety records of any construction site, it is essential to have an inspection. Professionals can check for safety violations, look over the place, pick up anything that might be hazardous, and ensure everything is being done correctly.
8. File a Claim
Those injured will probably have to file a claim with the insurance company that paid for their medical bills. Some companies will wait to see if they will sue before paying the claims, but this is only recommended. The injured party should take all necessary steps before considering legal action.
Unfortunately, accidents are widespread in the construction industry, and many occur yearly. It is essential for company owners, managers, employees, and even consumers to know what to do if an accident does occur. All parties involved should work together to ensure that the injured party receives the help they need to recover as fast as possible. Contact a New York City construction accident lawyer today for more information.
