The potential for injury is real in every place of work across all industries. That’s why the U.S. Department of Labor established a set of safety regulations and standards that is run by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA is the governing body that develops safety laws and procedures for every industry to help prevent workplace injury. However, those who work in the construction industry often face more risk than other jobs on a daily basis.
Construction sites can be dangerous places with many potential ways to suffer an injury. With construction vehicles driving around, heavy machinery, power tools, and hazardous environments, workers understand there is an inherent risk to the job. According to stats from the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Nearly 10 percent of construction workers suffer an injury on the job each year
- Construction has the highest rate of workplace injury
- There are around 1,000 construction fatalities each year
While the risk is there, construction workers shouldn't fear for their lives as they earn a living. An injury on the job can have serious consequences for the worker and their family, especially if the injury keeps them from work for an extended period of time. By law, most construction companies that employ 20 or more workers are required to provide safety training or courses. However, even if a construction company follows the guidelines set forth by OSHA and conducts safety training, accidents can still occur through the negligent actions of another.
The first thing any worker who is injured should do is report the injury to the manager or supervisor and seek medical help immediately. The next thing is to file a workers’ compensation claim. Every employer must carry workers’ compensation insurance, which helps an injured worker with compensation for medical bills, disability, and lost wages.
With workers’ compensation available, many don’t think they need the help of an experienced construction injury attorney. However, even workers’ compensation claims can be complicated and even denied or offer less than what you deserve. And what many injured workers may not realize is that you have the right to file a personal injury claim if the accident is the result of some form of negligence.
An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the choppy waters of a workers’ compensation claim to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. If you decide to pursue a personal injury claim, a lawyer is even more necessary, as it’s imperative to show that negligence is what caused your injury. A construction injury lawyer can help you determine who is liable for your injuries, which may include:
- The construction company
- Jobsite supervisor, manager, or foreman
- Manufacturer of the tools, equipment, or machinery
- A coworker or sub-contractor
At Portner & Shure, P.A., we know how important your job is to your well-being. Being out of work because of injury can create significant financial stresses. Let us help you make sure that you’re compensated justly for your pain and suffering and hold the responsible party liable to help curb future injuries from occurring to others.
If you’ve been hurt on the job because of some form of negligence from another, please call Portner & Shure today at one of our many offices. We can be reached at (410) 995-1515. We work on a contingency basis, which means that we don’t get paid unless your case is successful.
