It can happen in an instant and come from anywhere: a piece of flying debris hits someone; scaffolding collapses; a power tool malfunctions; a trench caves in; an electrical connection becomes shocking; a welding rig sparks a fire; a hazardous material spill creates an unsafe situation. Construction sites are inherently dangerous places. Even with the best safety precautions in place, accidents can and do happen. And when they do, you should choose an experienced Boston construction accident lawyer to protect your best interest.
Laborers, carpenters, electricians, ironworkers, crane operators, plumbers, masons, painters, sheet metal workers, welders, heavy equipment operators and even innocent bystanders are all potential victims of Boston construction accidents.
What are the most common types of Boston construction site accidents?
- Construction site falls- These can include roof-related falls, scaffolding falls, crane falls, elevator shaft falls, falls from holes in flooring and falling objects.
- Scaffold falls – Scaffolds are temporary structures that can reach considerable heights. Most scaffold falls are the result of faulty scaffolding construction.
- Electrical accidents – These can include electric shock, electrocutions, steam accidents and power line contact. When OSHA standards aren’t adhered or simply overlooked, serious accidents can happen.
- Welding accidents – Welding accidents can be caused by exposure to welding fumes, UV light, sparks, high temperatures or skin injuries.
- Trench collapses – Many construction sites require trenches for things like burying power lines; it is therefore critical that appropriate safety measures are taken to avoid a trench collapse.
- Falling objects – When overhead work is performed, the risk of being hit by a falling object exists. The resulting construction site injuries can range from a simple cut or scrape to a concussion, blindness, permanent injury, or even death.
What is the first thing you should do if you’ve been injured in a construction site accident?
Get immediate medical attention. Your health and well-being come first. Even what may appear to be a minor injury could have far-reaching implications – like becoming a permanent disability that requires follow-up care – not to mention lost work time and wages. Generally speaking, the sooner you get medical attention, the faster your recovery.
What is the next thing you should do after receiving initial medical care?
Contact an experienced construction site accident attorney. Most often the actual medical costs and some of the lost wages will be covered by workers’ compensation, but since the medical costs could be high, you want to be sure. You also could be an independent contractor with no workers’ compensation coverage. Either way, you want to know what you’re entitled to under the law.
Workers’ compensation alone usually does not adequately compensate an injured person for permanent losses and/or disability. If another party other than your employer or a co-worker is responsible, you may have a construction accident claim for pain and suffering. Who’s going to look out for you? Only an experienced Boston construction accident lawyer knows what needs to be done.
Getting the help you need has never been easier. We have successfully resolved hundreds of construction site accident cases during our more than 50-year history.
The Insurance Research Council reports that injury victims who consult with a Boston construction accident attorneys typically receive 40 percent more money than those who don’t. Our legal team can do even better than that for you.
Talk to one of our experienced Boston construction accident lawyers today for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. Call 617-742-1170 now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accidents in Boston
1. What typically causes accidents on construction job sites in Boston? Construction mishaps often stem from falls, being struck by objects, getting caught in/between equipment, electrocution, or slips/trips due to hazards like uneven surfaces.
2. Who bears responsibility for construction accidents in Boston? Liability varies but may involve construction firms, property owners, contractors, equipment makers, or other negligent parties linked to the accident.
3. What steps should I take after a construction accident in Boston? Seek immediate medical help, report the incident to your employer, and meticulously document it. Contacting a proficient personal injury attorney is crucial to safeguarding your rights and exploring legal avenues.
4. Can I seek compensation for injuries sustained in a Boston construction accident? Yes, if negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation covering medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. A skilled attorney can assist you in pursuing a claim.
5. Is there a time limit for filing a claim following a construction accident in Boston? Typically, Massachusetts allows three years from the injury date to file a personal injury claim. Acting promptly is vital to preserving evidence and maximizing your case’s potential.
6. Can I still pursue compensation if I played a role in the accident? Yes, Massachusetts applies a comparative negligence system, permitting recovery even if you share fault. However, your compensation might be reduced based on your degree of responsibility.
7. What if my workers’ comp claim is rejected? If your workers’ compensation claim faces denial or dispute, you have the right to appeal. An experienced construction accident attorney can guide you through the appeals process, striving to secure the benefits you’re owed.