Injured On The Job? Know Your Legal Options
Construction work is one of the most physically demanding and dangerous types of employment. Whether you’re operating heavy machinery, working from heights, or surrounded by constantly changing conditions, job site injuries can happen in an instant. When they do, knowing what steps to take and what rights you may have can help protect your future.
If you’ve been hurt while working on a construction site, there are legal options available beyond just filing a workers’ compensation claim. In some cases, injured workers can pursue additional claims—especially when third-party negligence is involved.
Our friends at Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. can attest that understanding your options early can make a meaningful difference in how your case is handled and how your recovery is supported.
Workers’ Compensation Vs. Additional Legal Claims
Most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage generally provides medical care and wage replacement after a job-related injury. However, workers’ comp doesn’t always cover everything—especially when a third party, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, is involved in the incident.
In those situations, injured workers may be able to pursue an injured construction worker lawsuit. This type of legal action can offer additional compensation for pain and suffering, long-term disability, and other damages that are not included in a typical workers’ compensation package.
Legal Help After A Construction Injury
If you’ve been injured, it’s important to seek both medical care and construction injury legal help as soon as possible. While your health should always come first, collecting documentation quickly—including photos of the site, medical records, and witness statements—can help support your legal case.
Should you delay, it may negatively impact your claim. Evidence may be lost, witnesses can be difficult to contact, and insurance companies may try to limit what you receive. Acting quickly gives you the best chance to protect your interests in a personal injury claim.
When A Third Party May Be Liable
Not every workplace injury is solely your employer’s responsibility. In many construction projects, multiple companies are working on the same site. If a subcontractor’s actions or a defective product caused your injury, you may be able to pursue a claim against them.
A workplace accident lawyer can evaluate whether other parties besides your employer may be legally accountable. In some cases, claims may be filed against a property owner, a vendor, or even the manufacturer of unsafe equipment.
Heavy Equipment And Injury Risk
Construction jobs often rely on the use of forklifts, cranes, backhoes, and other large machinery. If a piece of equipment fails or is operated improperly, the results can be devastating. These accidents can lead to serious injury, long-term disability, or even fatalities.
A heavy equipment accident attorney can review the circumstances surrounding the incident, determine whether the machinery was defective or mishandled, and help you decide on a course of action.
Take The Next Step
If you’ve been hurt on a construction site, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure out your options without help. Construction accident lawyers are familiar with the hazards of the industry and the many ways injury claims can unfold. If you have questions about a workplace injury, contact an attorney. Legal support can make the difference between a short-term solution and long-term security.