8 Steps To Take After a Construction Accident Injury

Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, and accidents can happen despite stringent safety measures. In the unfortunate event of a construction accident, it is vital to be aware of the legal steps to take in order to protect your rights and seek compensation for damages.

Step 1: Prioritize Medical Attention

The first and most immediate concern after a construction accident is your health and well-being. Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries initially seem minor. A comprehensive medical examination ensures that all injuries are properly documented and forms an important basis for potential legal claims. Delaying medical attention may jeopardize both your health and your ability to obtain a recovery for your injuries.

Step 2: Report the Accident

In many jurisdictions, reporting a workplace accident is a legal requirement. Notify your supervisor or the site manager about the incident as soon as possible. Be sure to document the details of the accident including the time, date, location, and any factors that may have contributed to the incident. This report may become key evidence in establishing liability and supporting your claim.

Step 3: Gather Evidence

Preserving evidence is essential for building a strong legal case. If circumstances permit, take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any equipment or conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Collect contact information from any witnesses who observed the accident. These pieces of evidence can be invaluable in establishing liability and supporting your version of events down the road.

Step 4: Consult with an Attorney

Seeking legal advice is a critical step in protecting your rights and understanding the potential legal avenues available to you. It never hurts to speak with a local injury attorney to discuss your options and have any questions you might have answered. Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in construction accidents. An attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape, assess the viability of your case, and guide you on the appropriate course of action.  Construction accidents, like many other work injuries, can involve a number of different legal claims, including both work comp and third-party liability claims. Consulting with a local injury attorney sooner than later can help you understand all of the potential claims that might be available in your specific situation.

Step 5: Notify Your Employer & Workers’ Compensation

If you were working at the time of the accident, inform your employer about the accident and your intention to file a workers’ compensation claim.  In addition to a potential third-party claim, construction accidents often involve a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation is designed to provide medical benefits and wage replacement for employees injured on the job, regardless of fault. Comply with all the necessary paperwork and deadlines to ensure smooth and timely processing of your claim.

Step 6: Preserve Documentation

Maintain thorough documentation related to your construction accident. This includes medical records, medical bills, and receipts for medical expenses, as well as any communication with your employer, insurance companies, or other relevant parties. A well-organized file can help your attorney build a compelling case and demonstrate the extent of your damages.

Step 7: Investigate Liability

Determining liability is a deciding aspect of a construction accident case when there is a third-party negligence claim involved. While liability may be irrelevant to a workers’ compensation claim, determining liability in your third-party liability claim(s) is extremely important. Investigations may involve assessing whether safety regulations were followed, examining equipment maintenance records, and evaluating the actions of all parties involved. A skilled attorney can conduct a thorough investigation early on to identify responsible parties, such as contractors, subcontractors, public utility companies, or equipment manufacturers.

Step 8: Explore Additional Avenues

As referenced above, in some cases, third-party liability may exist beyond workers’ compensation. If a party other than your employer contributed to the accident, such as a negligent contractor or equipment manufacturer, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party directly. Your attorney can help assess whether additional legal actions are warranted to make sure any necessary evidence and testimony is preserved.

Use Chandler|Conway Attorneys for Construction Accidents

Attorneys at Chandler Conway have exceptional experience and knowledge from several years of successful construction accident cases. We know that experiencing a construction accident is a challenging and often traumatic event. Because construction sites are inherently dangerous, many construction accidents often result in severe injury.  By consulting with an expert attorney, individuals can navigate the legal process more effectively and work towards achieving a just resolution to their construction accident case.

Contact us or explore our website to see how we can help you.

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