Construction Accident Attorney Near You: What to Know Before Hiring

Construction accident attorneys help workers who face life-changing injuries at job sites. The numbers tell a sobering story – each year, almost 5,000 construction workers die in the United States. More than 3.5 million workers suffer non-fatal injuries on the job. These stark figures show why you need legal help after a workplace accident.

Contents

Understanding Construction Site Risks High injury and fatality rates Common hazards on construction sites Most Common Types of Construction Accidents Falls from heights Heavy machinery accidents Chemical exposure Slip and fall incidents Repetitive motion injuries Injuries That Often Require Legal Help Spinal cord and brain injuries Fractures and amputations Burns and chemical injuries Why Construction Accident Cases Are Legally Complex Workers’ compensation vs. personal injury Multiple parties and shared liability Independent contractor classification issues When to Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer Near You Immediately after the accident Before speaking to insurance companies If your claim is denied or delayed How to Choose the Right Construction Site Accident Attorney Look for experience in construction cases Check client reviews and testimonials Verify credentials and bar association status What to Expect During a Free Case Evaluation Original case review Discussion of legal options Understanding contingency fees How a Construction Injury Lawyer Builds Your Case Gathering evidence and documentation Working with medical and accident experts Negotiating with insurers or going to trial Conclusion FAQs References

Looking for a construction accident lawyer in your area requires careful thought. These cases typically involve multiple parties – contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers all play a role. On top of that, claims can mix workers’ compensation with third-party elements, which makes the legal process tricky. You need a skilled construction site accident attorney. Massachusetts construction industry’s fatal accident risk ranks second only to fishing and agriculture. The best construction injury lawyers have proven results. Some law firms have won over $20 billion for accident victims. One notable case brought $44 million to a site superintendent who lost his leg in a crane accident.

Understanding Construction Site Risks

The construction industry ranks among America’s most dangerous work environments. Workers face countless risks that could lead to severe injuries or death every time they step onto a construction site. You need to understand these dangers to prevent accidents and know when to contact a construction accident attorney.

High injury and fatality rates

Construction remains one of the deadliest industries in the United States. Last year saw more construction worker deaths than any other industry – 1,075 workers lost their lives. This translates to 9.6 deaths for every 100,000 full-time workers27.

The numbers paint a grim picture. Construction deaths make up nearly 1 in 5 workplace fatalities8. This is a big deal as it means that construction represents about 20% of all work-related deaths nationwide28. Only transportation and materials handling see more workplace deaths.

The situation isn’t getting better. Last year saw 83 more deaths at construction sites compared to 202127. The annual death toll has topped 1,000 workers since 201629. The Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 5,190 fatal work injuries across all industries in 2021, with construction taking up much of that total28.

The injury rates tell an equally alarming story. Private construction saw nonfatal workplace falls, slips, and trips that needed at least one day off work at a rate of 31.5 per 10,000 full-time workers during 2021–20228. This rate sits way above the private industry average of 22.6.

A construction site accident lawyer becomes vital to help you navigate the complex legal process after an injury.

Common hazards on construction sites

Construction workers face dangers of all types daily. OSHA identifies the “Fatal Four” – four accident types behind most construction deaths.

Falls pose the biggest threat, causing 37% of construction deaths in 202128. The next year, falls, slips, and trips led to 38.4% of all construction fatalities8. Construction sites saw almost half (47.4%) of all fatal falls across every industry8.

Electrocution stands as another leading killer, causing about 8% of construction worker deaths in 202128. Exposed wiring, power tools, and electrical systems create constant electrical hazards throughout construction sites.

“Struck-by” accidents happen when workers get hit by swinging, falling, or misplaced objects. These caused about 8% of construction deaths in 202128. Reports show these incidents killed 150 workers and injured 14,000 in 2020. Heavy equipment like trucks or cranes played a role in 75% of struck-by deaths30.

The fourth major danger comes from workers getting caught in or between machines, devices, or collapsing structures. This led to roughly 5% of construction worker deaths in 202128.

Other risks at construction sites include:

Harmful chemicals and materials that cause breathing problems and skin irritations31
Loud noise that leads to permanent hearing loss30
Confined spaces with little oxygen or toxic air31
Extreme temperatures that cause heat stroke or dehydration30
Hand-arm vibration syndrome from using power tools too long31

Construction brings unique dangers32. Some jobs carry even higher risks. Roofers face 57.5 deaths per 100,000 workers, making it the second most dangerous job after logging27.

A construction injury lawyer can help determine if someone’s negligence caused your accident. They’ll know which regulations might have been broken and how to build a strong case for compensation.

The construction industry keeps working on better safety measures. Notwithstanding that, accidents still happen. Everyone in this high-risk field should know their legal options.

Most Common Types of Construction Accidents

Construction sites have many dangers that can cause serious injuries or death. Workers who get hurt need to know what type of accident they had to get proper legal help. A good construction accident attorney can find who’s responsible and create a strong case based on what happened.

Falls from heights

Falls kill more construction workers than anything else, causing 37% of all construction deaths in 202128. OSHA data shows that falls from high places make up one-third of all deaths in construction33. In fact, the construction industry accounted for almost half (47.4%) of all deadly falls in every industry during 20228.

The most dangerous situations happen because of:

Sides and wall openings without protection
Floor holes that aren’t properly covered
Badly built frameworks
Ladders that aren’t used right

Federal rules say workers must have fall protection when they work six feet or higher above ground34. But even with these rules, 362 workers died from falls each year between 1995 and 1999, and this number keeps growing33.

Heavy machinery accidents

Heavy equipment accidents happen often on construction sites, especially with backhoes, dump trucks, and forklifts. Backhoes and trucks caused half of all deaths at excavation sites in 20209.

Heavy machinery accidents usually happen when workers:

Get trapped against fixed objects
Are caught or pulled by equipment
Get crushed in rollovers
Are hit by moving parts or falling loads
Fall while putting equipment together or taking it apart2

These accidents often leave workers with life-changing injuries like lost limbs, permanent disabilities, or severe disfigurement2. Getting hit by objects causes 15.4% of construction deaths, while getting caught in equipment leads to 5.4%9. People hurt in these accidents should talk to a construction site accident lawyer to handle complex issues with contractors, equipment makers, and maintenance companies.

Chemical exposure

Chemicals at construction sites can hurt workers right away or cause health problems years later. Workers can breathe in harmful substances, get them on their skin, or swallow them by accident10. Construction sites use many dangerous materials like paints, solvents, adhesives, insulation, and cleaning products10.

Chemical exposure can quickly cause skin rashes, breathing problems, nausea, and chemical burns10. The long-term risks are even worse and include cancer, brain damage, and reproductive health issues10.

OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard requires clear labels, safety sheets, and proper training for workers who handle dangerous chemicals11. But companies often break these rules. A construction injury lawyer can help workers who got hurt because they weren’t trained properly or didn’t have the right protection.

Slip and fall incidents

Besides falls from heights, workers also get hurt falling at ground level. Construction workers had more injuries from slips and falls than other industries in 2022 – 31.5 per 10,000 full-time workers compared to 22.6 across all private industries8.

Most slip and falls happen because of:

Loose cables, wires, and hoses
Slippery surfaces
Hidden holes or trenches
Scattered debris
Bad lighting12

Construction site accident attorneys must prove that someone failed to keep the site safe and this directly caused the injury13. They need to show who was responsible, how they failed in their duty, what caused the accident, and what damages occurred.

Repetitive motion injuries

Workers can develop repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) over time from doing the same tasks, using too much force, or working in awkward positions3. Construction work puts extra strain on the body because it’s so physical.

The National Safety Council reports that 13 workers died from overexertion and bodily stress in 20223. More than a million workers had to miss work, change jobs, or work with restrictions between 2021 and 20223.

Construction workers often get these RSIs:

Carpal tunnel from repeated hand movements
Tendonitis in shoulders, elbows, or wrists
Back problems from constant bending and lifting
Bursitis from doing the same thing too long
Tennis elbow from gripping tools3

Your local construction accident attorney can check if you can get workers’ compensation for your RSI or if someone else should pay because they didn’t train you right, gave you bad equipment, or made you work unsafely.

Injuries That Often Require Legal Help

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Construction workers’ lives can be turned upside down by serious workplace injuries that need legal help. Medical bills pile up fast after catastrophic accidents on construction sites. Lost wages and ongoing care create crushing financial pressure. A skilled construction accident lawyer can guide workers through complex legal processes to get fair compensation. Let’s get into the most serious injuries that need legal help.

Spinal cord and brain injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord damage rank among construction accidents’ worst outcomes. The construction sector tops U.S. workplace statistics for both deadly and non-deadly work-related TBIs. Statistics show 2,210 construction workers died from TBIs between 2003 and 2010. These deaths made up 25% of all construction fatalities and 24% of work-related TBI deaths in any discipline1.

Falls cause about half of all TBI-related hospital stays14. Construction workers face higher risks because they work in changing environments where objects can fall on them or they might fall from heights. Workers at small construction companies with fewer than 20 employees face 2.5 times more risk of fatal TBIs than those at bigger companies1.

Spinal cord injuries come in different forms. Complete tears cause quadriplegia where victims lose control of all four limbs. Partial tears result in paraplegia with lost control of the lower body and legs15. Research shows 824 people got work-related spinal injuries over three years. Falls caused 50% of these injuries, mainly from buildings, structures, ladders, or between levels15.

Money tells a shocking story. The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center reports first-year healthcare and living costs hit $1,065,980 for high tetraplegia. Annual costs after that reach $185,11116. Paraplegia costs average $519,520 in the first year, followed by $68,821 yearly16.

Fractures and amputations

Heavy equipment and machinery often cause fractures and amputations. These injuries need extensive medical care and might permanently stop workers from returning to their old jobs.

Common workplace fractures happen from:

Tripping over objects
Slipping on wet, oily, or uneven surfaces
Falling from ladders, scaffolds, or heights
Getting crushed by heavy equipment
Vehicle accidents with construction equipment4

Fracture severity ranges from hairline cracks to comminuted fractures where heavy force shatters the bone4. Compound fractures raise special concerns as bones break through skin and risk infection.

The Amputee Coalition reports about three workers lose limbs for every 20,000 in construction17. Manufacturing, construction, and agriculture jobs consistently show the highest amputation risks4. OSHA data shows amputations often happen around unprotected mechanical power presses, conveyors, printing presses, band saws, and other machines4.

Construction workers face seven major risks for amputation: falls, dangerous machinery, explosions, falling objects, caught-in-between accidents, vehicle crashes, and missing safety gear18. These accidents can cause immediate amputation or require surgical removal if doctors can’t save the limb.

Burns and chemical injuries

Construction sites put workers at risk for burns and chemical injuries. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows 71 construction workers died from explosions and fires in 202019. OSHA reports over 5,000 workers need hospital care yearly for workplace burns20.

Burns fall into three main types:

Thermal burns from flames, hot liquids, or surfaces
Chemical burns from acids, solvents, or caustic materials
Electrical burns from electric currents or exposed wiring19

The Centers for Disease Control ranks burns by how bad they are. First-degree burns damage just the top skin layer. Second-degree burns hurt the first two layers and cause blisters and pain. Third-degree burns destroy all skin layers and tissue underneath, requiring immediate medical help21.

Chemical exposure brings both quick and long-term dangers. Workers who breathe, swallow, or touch certain chemicals risk burns, breathing problems, nerve damage, organ failure, skin diseases, poisoning, birth defects, and possible cancer5. Construction sites often have hazardous materials like asbestos, asphalt, formaldehyde, fuels, solvents, carbon monoxide, and silica22.

Burns create more than just initial injuries. They can cause permanent scars, contracture that limits joint movement, breathing problems, and organ damage19. Electrical burns pose extra risks and might cause irregular heartbeats, kidney problems, rhabdomyolysis, acute compartment syndrome, and nerve system damage19.

Victims of these serious injuries should ask a construction site accident lawyer for help quickly. This can make all the difference in getting money for medical bills, rehab costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Why Construction Accident Cases Are Legally Complex

Legal cases after construction accidents are more challenging than other injury cases. The laws overlap, many parties share responsibility, and worker classification issues can affect how much compensation a victim gets. You need a construction accident attorney who knows these details to get fair compensation for injured workers.

Workers’ compensation vs. personal injury

Construction accident cases work under two different legal systems. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system that lets injured employees get benefits no matter who caused the accident. The injured worker doesn’t have to prove their employer, coworkers, or work conditions led to the injury.

Personal injury cases work differently. The victim must prove someone’s careless actions created unsafe conditions that caused the accident and injuries. This key difference matters when seeking compensation.

The amount you can get is different between these two options. Workers’ compensation usually covers:

Weekly compensation during work absence
Payment of medical bills
Vocational rehabilitation when necessary
Permanent impairment benefits in some cases

But workers’ compensation doesn’t cover pain and suffering damages, which make up much of personal injury awards. Personal injury claims can give you more complete compensation. They cover all damages – lost earnings, medical expenses, lost earning capacity, future medical costs, pain and suffering, and permanent impairment.

Construction workers must know when to use each type of claim. Sometimes, they can file both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury lawsuit at once, especially when someone else’s negligence caused their injuries.

Multiple parties and shared liability

Construction sites have many companies working together – general contractors, subcontractors, property owners, equipment manufacturers, and specialized crews. This creates complex questions about who’s responsible when accidents happen.

To cite an instance, Illinois construction cases follow specific rules about shared responsibility called “joint and several liability.” These rules say any party that’s at least 25% responsible might have to pay all damages, whatever other parties did. This matters a lot when one responsible party doesn’t have enough insurance or money.

Many states also use “modified comparative negligence” rules. An injured worker’s compensation goes down if they share blame – but only if they’re less than 50% at fault. Construction companies and insurers often try to blame injured workers to pay less.

Third-party liability adds another layer of complexity. While workers usually can’t sue their employers directly under workers’ compensation, they can still sue other negligent parties. If faulty equipment causes an injury, the manufacturer might be liable even as the worker gets workers’ compensation.

Independent contractor classification issues

The construction industry often wrongly labels workers as independent contractors instead of employees. Studies show 10% to 20% of American employers mislabel at least one worker. The construction industry’s numbers are worse – one in six to one in three construction workers might be mislabeled.

This label changes your legal options after an injury. Independent contractors can’t get workers’ compensation benefits. They must file personal injury claims and prove someone was negligent. This makes it harder for injured workers wrongly labeled as contractors to get help.

Several things determine the right classification:

How much control the employer has
The worker’s chance to make or lose money
How much the worker invests in the business
Job skill requirements
How long the employer-worker relationship lasts
How important the work is to the employer’s business

Real independent contractors set their own hours, earn based on work quality, work for multiple employers, and need little supervision. Most construction workers should be employees with workers’ compensation protection.

A construction site accident lawyer needs to check these classification issues carefully. Wrong classification can cost workers important legal protections and lead to lower pay and benefits. Finding the right construction injury lawyer who understands these details can make a big difference in your case’s outcome and compensation.

When to Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer Near You

The right timing can make or break your chances of getting compensation for construction site injuries. Your case outcome and potential settlement amount depend heavily on when you reach out to a construction accident attorney.

Immediately after the accident

Those first few days after a construction accident can determine the success of your legal case. You should get in touch with a construction injury lawyer within one to two weeks after the whole ordeal23. This quick action lets your attorney:

Secure vital accident scene evidence before it disappears
Identify and interview witnesses while their memories are fresh
Document injuries and accident circumstances properly
Direct you through the right reporting steps with your employer

Your case could suffer if you wait too long, since construction sites change faster than you might expect. Evidence disappears quickly because companies fix hazards right away to stop more injuries24. Witnesses tend to forget important details when there’s a delay in talking to them24.

Before speaking to insurance companies

Insurance adjusters rush to contact injury victims and try to get statements or offer quick settlements. You should talk to a construction site accident lawyer before any insurance representative to protect your interests.

Insurance companies care about profits above everything else25. Their adjusters use specific strategies to pay less, such as:

Asking leading questions about how you feel or your pain levels
Trying to show you were at fault in the accident
Offering minimal money knowing you need medical care right away25
Picking biased doctors to review your injuries25

Talking to adjusters without legal help could hurt your claim. Note that you don’t have to give statements directly and can let your attorney handle all communication7.

If your claim is denied or delayed

Injured workers often face claim denials or delays, which makes having an attorney essential. You need to contact a construction accident attorney near you if:

Your workers’ compensation claim gets denied6
Your benefits are late or stop unexpectedly6
Your employer questions the claim or how you got hurt6
The settlement offer doesn’t cover your medical costs or lost wages6
Your employer takes action against you for filing a claim6

A skilled attorney knows how to file a Disputed Claim for Compensation and challenge the denial with solid evidence6. They can also handle the paperwork to fight workers’ compensation denials24. Attorneys understand your rights when insurance companies deny claims over minor issues like spelling mistakes, wrong dates, or unclear statements26.

Insurance companies hope you’ll give up after a denial, but an experienced construction site accident lawyer knows how to work through appeals, get you fair compensation, and make sure those responsible for your injuries are held accountable.

How to Choose the Right Construction Site Accident Attorney

Choosing the right legal representative can change the outcome of your construction accident case. You need to research and evaluate several factors to find a qualified construction accident attorney.

Look for experience in construction cases

Your best bet is to find attorneys who specialize in construction accident cases. Lawyers with deep construction site accident experience can direct complex situations with confidence. They make strategic decisions and get better outcomes through effective negotiation. When you meet them, ask direct questions like: “What experience do you have handling construction accident cases?” and “Have you represented clients with injuries similar to mine?” Their answers will show how well they know cases like yours.

A lawyer who has won construction cases will know the complex regulations of construction sites and the legal strategies that work. This specialized experience will substantially increase your chances to get maximum compensation for your injuries.

Check client reviews and testimonials

Client testimonials and reviews matter just as much as experience. Good construction injury lawyers show their success through feedback that highlights their professionalism, communication skills, and dedication to winning cases.

Reviews from past clients give you a real picture of what to expect. Look for patterns in multiple reviews – when many people mention things like quick responses, attention to detail, or winning cases, it’s a good sign. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations since word-of-mouth often leads to reliable attorneys.

Verify credentials and bar association status

The State Bar Association Directory is the quickest way to check an attorney’s credentials and standing. Each state has its own bar association that licenses and regulates attorneys. These directories tell you if attorneys have their license and are in good standing without any disciplinary actions.

The construction accident attorney you choose should focus on personal injury law and know construction regulations well. Some top attorneys are part of prestigious groups like the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, which shows they’ve won big settlements for their clients.

What to Expect During a Free Case Evaluation

Meeting a construction accident attorney opens the door to understanding your legal trip ahead. Most law firms give free consultations that offer a chance to get clarity without spending money.

Original case review

Your construction accident lawyer will collect everything about your accident’s circumstances. The attorney will ask detailed questions about where, at the time, and how your injury occurred. They’ll ask about your medical treatment, how the injury affects your work capacity, and your daily life challenges. A full picture helps determine if you have viable legal claims to pursue.

You should share all relevant information honestly. Your construction site accident attorney needs complete details to review your case properly. Missing details, even small ones, can affect their ability to assess your situation correctly. The consultation stays completely confidential, which creates a safe space to discuss everything openly.

Discussion of legal options

Your construction accident attorney will outline possible legal paths based on your specific situation. They’ll explain if your case involves workers’ compensation claims, personal injury lawsuits against third parties, or both. The lawyer will talk about your case’s strengths and weaknesses, types of compensation available, and expected timeframes.

The discussion has sections about which parties might be responsible—employers, contractors, equipment manufacturers, or others. Your construction injury lawyer will also explain what evidence needs to be gathered and preserved to build a strong case.

Understanding contingency fees

We worked with construction accident lawyers on a contingency fee basis, which means they get paid only after winning compensation for you. This setup removes any upfront costs for quality legal representation. They don’t charge you anything if they don’t win your case.

The standard contingency fee comes to about one-third (33.3%) of your total recovery amount. This percentage changes based on case complexity and firm policies. Your attorney’s written contract will specify how fees work, making payment structures completely clear.

The contingency arrangement creates a system where everyone wins—your lawyer succeeds only when you do. This approach lets injured workers get legal help whatever their current financial situation might be, as the attorney takes all financial risk.

How a Construction Injury Lawyer Builds Your Case

A successful construction accident claim needs careful investigation and preparation. Construction accident lawyers use proven methods to build strong cases that help clients get the most compensation.

Gathering evidence and documentation

Good construction injury lawyers quickly collect vital evidence before it’s gone. They get accident reports, take photos of the scene, and record statements from coworkers or anyone who saw what happened. These lawyers know physical evidence won’t last long, so they act fast.

Lawyers also need construction reports, logs, and contracts between all parties to understand who was responsible for what. They find out exactly who did what by asking direct questions like: “Please IDENTIFY all PERSONS who you contend were responsible for covering any holes, trenches or other depressions in the ground including the SUBJECT TRENCH on the date of the SUBJECT INCIDENT.”

Working with medical and accident experts

Construction site lawyers work together with experts to make their cases stronger. Medical experts show how accidents caused specific injuries and explain long-term health effects. Accident specialists use science to break down what happened and present it clearly in court.

Expert engineers use advanced tools like laser scanners, aerial photos, and vehicle data to find out why accidents happen. Their expert knowledge helps juries understand complex technical details that might be hard to grasp otherwise.

Negotiating with insurers or going to trial

With detailed evidence in hand, injury lawyers talk to insurance companies in a structured way. They fight low settlement offers by showing how injuries really affect their client’s life. These lawyers know insurance company tricks to pay less.

If talks break down, lawyers get ready for trial by creating visual aids and planning how to question witnesses. They organize evidence to show juries and often reveal when defendants say different things. One lawyer said after showing conflicting statements between a contractor and subcontractor: “Being able to show these contradictions in opening statement was extremely powerful, as it tied into our theme of failing to accept responsibility.”

Conclusion

Construction accidents are some of the most complex and devastating incidents at work. The numbers paint a grim picture of how dangerous construction work can be. Nearly 5,000 workers die each year and millions more get serious injuries. The “Fatal Four” hazards still cause most problems at job sites across the country. These include falls, electrocution, struck-by incidents, and caught-in/between accidents.

Time matters most when you seek compensation after a construction accident. Quick legal help can save vital evidence before it vanishes from busy work sites. Understanding the difference between workers’ compensation and third-party liability claims can affect how much money you recover. A good lawyer will direct you through these legal paths and find everyone who might be responsible.

Look for lawyers who know construction cases well, not just general injury work. Check their background, see what their clients say, and make sure they work on contingency. This means you won’t pay unless they win money for you. You can get quality legal help whatever your money situation might be.

Workers with construction injuries often face huge medical bills, no wages, and an unclear future. A skilled lawyer lets you focus on getting better while they build your case. They gather evidence, bring in experts, and negotiate hard. Construction work stays dangerous, but knowledgeable accident lawyers stand up for workers hurt by unsafe conditions or workplace carelessness.

FAQs

Q1. When should I contact a construction accident attorney? You should contact a construction accident attorney as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within one to two weeks. Early intervention allows the attorney to secure crucial evidence, interview witnesses while memories are fresh, and guide you through proper reporting procedures.

Q2. How do construction accident lawyers typically charge for their services? Most construction accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. The standard contingency fee is usually around one-third (33.3%) of the total recovery amount.

Q3. What makes construction accident cases legally complex? Construction accident cases are legally complex due to multiple factors, including overlapping areas of law (workers’ compensation vs. personal injury), multiple responsible parties, and potential issues with worker classification. These complexities require specialized legal knowledge to navigate effectively.

Q4. How do I choose the right construction accident attorney? When selecting a construction accident attorney, look for experience specifically in construction cases, check client reviews and testimonials, and verify the lawyer’s credentials and bar association status. It’s also important to choose an attorney who communicates clearly and makes you feel comfortable.

Q5. What can I expect during a free case evaluation with a construction accident lawyer? During a free case evaluation, the attorney will review the details of your accident, discuss your legal options, and explain how contingency fees work. This is your opportunity to ask questions, understand the potential strengths and weaknesses of your case, and determine if the attorney is a good fit for your needs.

References