Construction work is inherently risky, often involving large machinery, heights, electrical lines, and powerful equipment, and potentially multiple contractors operating on the same site. Unfortunately, this combination of hazards can lead to catastrophic injuries or even fatalities, especially when proper safety measures are neglected.

As a construction injury lawyer, firm founding attorney Robert Hartigan is dedicated to representing injured workers and families who have lost a loved one in construction accidents, pursuing full compensation against all those legally responsible. While workers’ compensation may cover some of your medical bills and lost wages, it’s essential to know that you can also seek additional compensation from other parties who may be liable, such as other contractors, property owners who allow dangerous conditions, and manufacturers, sellers, or distributors of defective products, tools, and machinery.

Unlike workers’ compensation claims, these third-party lawsuits allow for the recovery of pain and suffering—damages that ordinarily aren’t available in a workers’ compensation claim. Our goal is to help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve, holding all negligent parties accountable.

Attorney Hartigan has successfully secured millions of dollars in compensation for injured individuals and their families. Lionhart Injury Law is committed to helping clients secure the compensation they rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one was injured in a construction accident, we invite you to call us at (855) 343-0997 to schedule a free consultation.

What is a Third-Party Claim?  How Does it Affect Our Ability to Recover for Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Workers’ compensation benefits are intended as a “no fault” way for workers injured on the job to secure benefits for their injuries without having to prove fault against their employer.  As a result, when a worker is injured, in most instances the sole right of the worker against the worker’s employer is through a workers’ compensation claim.

Workers’ compensation claims do not prevent an injured worker from suing others responsible for injury in a personal injury lawsuit.  Because personal injury lawsuits can include claims for pain and suffering (as well as other matters not covered by workers’ compensation benefits), an investigation should always be conducted in a serious construction injury case to determine whether someone other than an employer is responsible for the injuries.

Defective equipment. Actions of other contractors.  Dangerous property conditions.

If someone else may be at fault for a workplace injury other than an employer, an injured worker may bring a personal injury claim against such other person or entity.

In many cases, workers are injured by dangerous products that fail.  In these cases, product manufacturers, distributors, and sellers may all be liable.

Or, a worker may be injured when driving a company truck because of a blowout from a defective tire.  In this case, the worker would also be able to bring a separate injury claim against the tire manufacturer.

As a construction injury lawyer, Attorney Robert Hartigan carefully investigates construction accidents to determine whether someone other than the employer is responsible for causing injury so that an injured construction worker can seek full compensation.

Understanding Construction Accident Claims

Construction accidents can result from various hazards, including falls, equipment malfunctions, or safety violations. Workers are often at risk of severe injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, or even death. These unfortunate incidents not only cause physical pain but also lead to significant financial burdens, including medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care costs.

The role of a construction accident attorney is to seek to hold negligent parties accountable for the damages they cause, and to see that injured workers receive fair compensation for their losses.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

Construction site injuries often are the result of:

• Falls from Heights: One of the leading causes of construction site injuries, falls can occur from ladders, scaffolding, or roofs.
• Falling Objects: Tools, materials, or debris falling from heights can result in serious injuries to workers below.
• Equipment Accidents: Heavy machinery, such as cranes, forklifts, and bulldozers, can malfunction or be improperly operated, leading to accidents.
• Electrocutions: Construction sites often involve electrical work, and exposure to live wires or faulty wiring can cause electrocution.
• Trench Collapses: Workers in trenches or excavation sites are at risk of being buried or trapped if the trench collapses.
• Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Chemicals, asbestos, and other toxic substances can lead to long-term health issues.

How a Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating a construction accident claim can be complex, especially when dealing with multiple parties and insurance companies. As your construction accident attorney, we will:

• Investigate the Accident: We’ll conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
• Gather Evidence: This includes reviewing safety records, accident reports, witness statements, and any relevant documentation to build a strong case.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Take Your Case to Trial. If a fair settlement cannot be achieved, we will take your claim to trial.

Construction Accident Claim FAQs

What Should I Do Immediately After a Construction Accident?

If you are injured in a construction accident, seek medical attention immediately. Your health is the top priority. Once you are able, report the accident to your employer and document the incident as thoroughly as possible. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, noting any unsafe conditions, and gathering contact information from witnesses.

Contacting a construction injury lawyer as soon as possible is also crucial to protect your rights and begin the legal process. As soon as we are involved, we can initiate a full investigation.

What Types of Compensation Can I Receive in a Construction Accident Claim?

The compensation you may be entitled to depends on the specifics of your case. Through workers’ compensation, you can receive benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, and disability. If you file a personal injury lawsuit, you may also recover damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. Additionally, in cases of severe negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party.

How Long Do I Have to File a Construction Accident Claim?

The statute of limitations for filing a construction accident claim varies by state. In Massachusetts, injury victims generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Georgia, the statute of limitations is two years.

What Types of Construction Injury Claims Do You Handle?

At Lionhart Injury Law, we are fully equipped to handle all types of construction accident cases. Attorney Hartigan is here to support injured workers and families who have tragically lost loved ones in construction-related incidents. We represent clients facing a wide range of severe injuries and fatalities, including:

• Amputations
• Back injuries
• Broken bones
• Brain injuries
• Rib fractures
• Burns
• Catastrophic injuries
• Concussions
• Complex regional pain syndrome
• Dislocations
• Fractures
• Herniated discs
• Knee and meniscus injuries
• PTSD
• Shoulder injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Wrongful death

We do not, however, represent clients in workers’ compensation cases.

Why Choose Lionhart Injury Law?

When you choose Lionhart Injury Law, you’re choosing a law firm that is committed to fighting for your rights. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a construction accident can take on you and your family. We will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.

• Personalized Attention: We treat every case as a top priority, ensuring you receive the attention and support you deserve.
• Focused Representation: We will focus on getting you the best possible outcome, whether through settlement negotiations or by taking your case to trial.
• Experience You Can Trust: With a deep understanding of Massachusetts and Georgia law, we’re equipped to handle even the most complex construction accident cases.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Together, we’ll discuss your options and determine the best course of action in seeking to secure the compensation you deserve.