The Dependable Workers’ Compensation Guidance You Need After A Construction Accident
When you suffer an on-the-job injury as a construction worker, there are all kinds of concerns you may have about the future. You may wonder whether you’ll be able to get the care you need and continue to pay your bills and support your family. I understand the worries you are facing and am here to help you pursue the benefits you need to recover and get peace of mind in this challenging time. Turn to me when you want a dependable construction accident lawyer in your corner.
My name is Drew D. Dalton, and my firm, We Care Legal, PLLC, is here for injured construction workers in Spokane and surrounding communities. I understand how important your workers’ compensation case is to your future, and I will give you the dedicated and caring legal support you deserve. I am ready to use all of my skills and 16 years of experience to fight for your best interests.
What Are Common Causes Of Construction Site Accidents?
Construction sites are filled with potential safety risks, and accidents can happen in an instant. Common dangers construction workers face include:
- Elevated heights and other fall risks
- Unstable ladders or scaffolding
- Problems with construction vehicles or other large machinery
- Faulty equipment
- Exposed wiring
- Chemicals and other harmful substances
- Fire hazards
- Falling objects
- Heavy loads
- Overexertion
- Extreme heat
From falls to struck-by accidents to caught-between accidents to crane accidents, many different incidents can leave construction workers with serious injuries. If you’ve been hurt on a construction site, I’m here to be your advocate.
What Should You Do After A Construction Accident?
What happens after your accident can have major implications for your well-being and future. Given this, there are actions it can be critical to take, including:
- Notifying your employer: Report the accident to ensure it’s properly documented
- Getting appropriate medical care: Protect your health by seeking immediate treatment for your injuries
- Gathering and record key information: Details you’ll likely need for your workers’ compensation claim include information regarding: what happened, accident location, your dependents, your wages, your employer, your medical provider and how to contact witnesses
- Getting trusted guidance on your legal options: Speaking with a skilled construction accident lawyer can help you understand what can be done to protect your rights and secure relief to help with your recovery.
I have the knowledge and resources to help you confidently navigate the aftermath of your construction accident. Let me guide you.
Are Construction Workers Eligible For Workers’ Compensation?
Yes, construction workers generally can receive workers’ comp for work-related injuries and occupational diseases, including:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Carpal tunnel and other repetitive stress injuries
- Burns
- Electrical shock
- Respiratory illnesses
- Head and brain injuries
- Neck, back and spinal cord injuries
- Amputations
- Hearing loss
- Vision loss
- Cancer
- PTSD related to a single event
Workers’ comp benefits that construction workers can qualify for include medical care, wage replacement and more.
Why Hire A Construction Accident Lawyer?
While you can pursue workers’ compensation for a construction site accident on your own, having a lawyer guide you through the process has many advantages. A skilled construction worker injury attorney can:
- Help you with all the paperwork involved with your claim, ensuring no key details are missed
- Help you understand your rights and protect them
- Help you steer clear of common, costly mistakes
- Answer your questions and help clear up any points of confusion.
- Help you prepare for each step of the process so you know exactly what to expect
- Pursue all avenues for securing and maximizing benefits for you
- Address any challenges that arise with your claim
You don’t have to fight for the benefits you need on your own. Put my experience and skill on your side.
Does It Matter If I Was At Fault?
No, whether or not you were in any way responsible for your construction accident is generally irrelevant to your eligibility for benefits. Washington’s workers’ comp system covers work-related injuries regardless of fault, with just a handful of exceptions like intentional self-harm.
Is A Workers’ Compensation Claim Your Only Option?
In most cases, yes, workers’ compensation is your only avenue for seeking financial relief for workplace injuries resulting from a construction accident. One major exception to this is if someone other than your employer or one of its employees was responsible for your injuries. In such cases, you may be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against that third party in addition to your workers’ compensation claim. These two claim types can interact in a range of complex ways. So, when you are pursuing both, having a lawyer with an in-depth understanding of both workers’ compensation law and the rules of third-party personal injury claims can be invaluable.
What If You Can’t Work Anymore?
If your construction injuries make it so you won’t be able to reenter the workforce, one of the workers’ compensation benefits you could pursue is Permanent Total Disability. These benefits provide a lifetime monthly pension. Complex issues can arise over eligibility and pension amount. I can help you navigate all aspects of Permanent Total Disability claims.
Why Might A Construction Accident Workers’ Comp Claims Be Denied?
Such a workers’ comp claim could be denied for a range of reasons, including for:
- Not showing an injury was related to work
- The injury in question is caused by a preexisting condition
- Failing to file on time
- Paperwork mistakes
- Lacking appropriate medical evidence
- Containing inconsistencies
I can help you understand common missteps that can lead to denials and build custom strategies for avoiding such pitfalls.
Can You Contest A Denial?
Yes, you can challenge a denial of a construction-related workers’ compensation claim through a protest or appeal. This process can be complicated though, so it can be worthwhile to have an experienced construction accident lawyer on your side from start to finish. I can:
- Help you understand your protest and appeal options
- Help you meet the necessary deadlines
- Build a strong case for reversing the denial
- Advocate for you at every step
Time can be of the essence when challenging a denial, so it can be wise to seek help as soon as possible.
Can You Be Fired For Seeking Workers’ Comp?
One reason a construction worker might hesitate to pursue workers’ compensation is the fear that this will upset their employer and potentially cause them to lose their jobs. It’s important to know that, in Washington, it is illegal for employers to fire or take other retaliatory action against employees for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Get A Free Evaluation Of Your Construction Accident Case
After a construction accident, it is critical to understand your rights and options. Turn to me for the clear and honest workers’ compensation guidance you need. You can get a free consultation with me to discuss your case. Schedule one today by calling me at 509-537-0388 or contacting me online. I stand ready to help you pursue the benefits you need to protect your future.