Construction sites can be dangerous places, and injuries are unfortunately not uncommon. If you find yourself injured on a Pennsylvania construction site, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your health and your legal rights.
Here’s what you should do if you’re injured on a Pennsylvania construction site:
- Seek medical attention
Your health should be your top priority. If you’re injured, seek medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, like head trauma or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Report the injury
Report your injury to your supervisor or the person in charge of the construction site as soon as possible. Pennsylvania law requires that employers report work-related injuries and illnesses to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) within eight hours of the incident. Reporting your injury promptly can help ensure that you receive workers’ compensation benefits and that the construction site takes steps to prevent similar accidents in the future.
- Gather evidence
If you’re able to do so, gather evidence of the accident and your injuries. Take pictures of the scene of the accident, your injuries, and any equipment or machinery involved in the incident. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened. This evidence can help support your claim for compensation and liability.
- Contact an attorney
An attorney who specializes in construction site accidents can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can assist you in filing a workers’ compensation claim, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, or both. An attorney can also help you negotiate a fair settlement with the construction site or their insurance company.
- Follow Your doctor’s orders
It’s essential to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all follow-up appointments. Failure to do so can harm your health and damage your legal case. It can also make it more challenging to receive workers’ compensation benefits or a settlement in a personal injury lawsuit.
- File a workers’ compensation claim
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. In Pennsylvania, employers are required to provide workers’ compensation benefits to their employees. If you’re injured on a construction site, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. To file a claim, you’ll need to notify your employer in writing and complete the necessary paperwork.
- Consider a personal injury lawsuit
If your injury was caused by the negligence of someone other than your employer, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. For example, if your injury was caused by a defective product or the negligence of a subcontractor, you may be able to pursue a lawsuit against them. A personal injury lawsuit can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Be careful What You Say
Be careful what you say after your injury. Avoid discussing the details of your accident or your injuries with anyone other than your doctor or your attorney. Don’t post anything on social media about your injury or your case. Insurance companies and defense attorneys may try to use your words against you to reduce or deny your compensation.
- Stay organized
Keep all of your medical records, bills, and receipts organized. This will help you track your expenses and demonstrate the extent of your injuries. It’s also important to keep all communication with your employer, insurance company, and attorney in writing.
- Be patient
Recovering from a construction site injury can take time. It’s important to be patient and to follow your doctor’s orders. Don’t rush back to work before you’re ready, as this can worsen your injuries and delay your recovery. A qualified attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you’re injured on a Pennsylvania construction site, Gibson & Perkins, PC can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are some ways that Gibson & Perkins, PC can assist you:
- Workers’ compensation claim
Gibson & Perkins, PC can help you file a workers’ compensation claim. We can assist you in completing the necessary paperwork and ensure that you receive the benefits to you’re entitled to. We can also help you navigate any disputes or denials that may arise.
- Personal injury lawsuit
If your injury was caused by the negligence of someone other than your employer, Gibson & Perkins, PC can help you pursue a personal injury lawsuit. We can investigate the circumstances of your accident and gather evidence to support your case. We can also negotiate with the insurance company or the responsible parties to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
- Legal Guidance
Gibson & Perkins, PC can provide you with legal guidance throughout the process. We can help you understand your legal rights and options and provide you with advice on the best course of action to take. They can also answer any questions you may have and provide you with ongoing support.
- Communication with insurers
Gibson & Perkins, PC can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. We can negotiate with the insurer to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available. We can also handle any disputes or issues that may arise during the claims process.
- Advocacy in court
If your case goes to court, Gibson & Perkins, PC can advocate on your behalf. We can represent you in court and argue your case before a judge or jury. We can also handle any appeals that may be necessary.
If you’re injured on a Pennsylvania construction site, Gibson & Perkins, PC can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. We can assist you with workers’ compensation claims, personal injury lawsuits, legal guidance, communication with insurers, and advocacy in court. With our help, you can focus on your recovery and get back on your feet.