Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces, exposing workers to risks such as falling from heights, accidents involving heavy machinery, and electrical hazards. Even with strict safety regulations in place, accidents still happen, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. When a worker is injured on a construction site, medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs can create significant financial and emotional burdens. Understanding your legal options is crucial to securing the compensation needed to recover and move forward.
If you were injured on a construction site, you may have multiple paths to compensation, including workers’ compensation and third-party liability claims. While workers’ compensation may cover medical expenses and lost wages, it does not always account for the full extent of your suffering. In some cases, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against negligent third parties, such as contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. A construction accident lawyer can help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
What are the Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents?
Construction sites present numerous hazards that can lead to serious injuries. Falls from heights are among the most common causes of construction-related injuries, often due to improper scaffolding, unsecured ladders, or a lack of fall protection. Even a short fall can result in broken bones, spinal injuries, or traumatic brain damage. Struck-by-object accidents are another frequent cause of injuries, where workers are hit by falling tools, building materials, or moving machinery. These incidents can lead to head trauma, internal injuries, and fractures.
Other common dangers include electrocutions, which can occur when workers come into contact with live wires, faulty equipment, or unsafe electrical systems. Construction sites often require extensive electrical work, making proper safety protocols essential to prevent accidents. Additionally, being caught in or between hazards poses significant risks, where workers may become trapped in machinery, crushed between equipment, or buried in collapsing trenches. These types of accidents are often life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Identifying the cause of your accident is the first step toward determining liability and pursuing a legal claim.
Understanding Your Legal Rights and Potential Compensation
In Missouri, injured construction workers may be eligible for workers’ compensation, which provides benefits such as medical coverage, wage replacement, and rehabilitation costs. This system is designed to help workers recover without proving employer negligence, but it has limitations. Workers’ compensation does not cover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, which can be significant in serious injury cases. Additionally, employers and insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, leaving injured workers without the full financial support they need.
Beyond workers’ compensation, some injured workers may be able to file a third-party liability claim if their injuries were caused by the negligence of someone other than their employer. For example, if a subcontractor failed to follow safety protocols or if defective machinery caused an accident, the responsible party could be held liable in a personal injury lawsuit. A third-party claim allows injured workers to seek compensation for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and other damages beyond what workers’ compensation provides. Speaking with an experienced construction accident lawyer can help determine the best legal strategy for your case.
How a Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the legal process after a construction site accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical treatment and recovery. A construction accident lawyer can help by investigating your case, gathering evidence, and identifying all potential sources of compensation. They will review workplace safety records, interview witnesses, and analyze accident reports to build a strong claim on your behalf. If necessary, they can also work with medical professionals and industry experts to demonstrate the severity of your injuries and the impact on your future.
Additionally, a lawyer can handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts or deny claims altogether, making legal representation essential for protecting your rights. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can take your case to court and advocate on your behalf. Having experienced legal support increases the likelihood of obtaining the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost income, and future rehabilitation costs.
Contact Hollis Law Firm for a Free Consultation Today
If you have been injured in a construction site accident, Hollis Law Firm is here to help. We understand the challenges that injured workers face and are committed to securing the compensation they deserve. From workers’ compensation claims to third-party lawsuits, we assess every case carefully and fight for maximum recovery. With years of experience handling complex personal injury cases, we have the knowledge and resources to take on insurance companies and negligent parties.
Taking legal action can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We are here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and advocate for your best interests. If you’re ready to explore your legal options, contact Hollis Law Firm today at (800) 701-3672 or fill out our contact form.
