Since construction work can be risky, injuries do occasionally take place. Many procedures exist to keep workers safe, but accidents can happen like materials that might unexpectedly fall, defective equipment, electrocution, and even exposure to hazardous substances.
Individuals who have been hurt in a construction accident might qualify to file a claim for injury, which can allow them to recover damages due to the accident. This article will summarize why safety is mandatory, how you can get a claim filed, and how construction injury claims are typically handled.
Safety and Prevention
It’s not optional for those who work at a construction site to abide by all safety regulations. The general contractor and property manager must ensure the Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSHA regulations are followed, which includes:
- Eliminating workplace hazards
- Providing safe equipment and tools
- Posting and letting staff know about the OSHA policies
- Putting together a danger communication plan
- Offering new team members a safety training handbook
OSHA will also protect the rights of workers, inspect a workplace, review safety policies, and retains access to all work records of injuries.
If you are concerned with the conditions in your workplace and believe that they might not comply with OSHA guidelines, don’t hesitate to file a complaint with your closest OSHA office or you can do it online.
How to File a Claim for a Construction Injury
First, obtain immediate medical care if you were hurt because your workplace, property manager, or a contractor did not uphold OSHA codes.
“After you’ve received care, inform your workplace about the injury in writing. Be sure to retain a copy of the records for yourself. This time would be an appropriate one to call a lawyer who has experience in construction injury claims who can inform you more about your options,” explained Jason Chalik, founder of Chalik and Chalik.
If your injury takes place at work, it’s typically going to fall under the worker’s compensation umbrella, which does not allow you to initiate a claim against those liable for the injuries. A skilled attorney can help you understand the specifics of how personal injury and worker’s compensation claims differ and what they have in common.
In summary, many safety regulations exist to try and prevent injury, but unfortunately, not all accidents can be avoided. Those who have been hurt on the job at a construction site must first seek medical attention. Then, file a workman’s compensation claim to help recover damages for the injury that occurred.
