Construction work is dangerous as workers face numerous hazards every day. It may be falling from a height, being struck by heavy equipment, or suffering injuries from faulty machinery; accidents can happen at an unexpected time.
If you or someone you care about gets injured in a construction accident, you deserve the right amount of compensation for all your losses. But getting this cannot be that easy. You need an experienced construction accident lawyer to handle the legal process correctly. Here, you can see five reasons why a construction accident lawyer is the right person to handle your claim.
1. Knowledge of Construction Law
Construction accident cases often involve complicated laws, especially when multiple parties are involved, such as contractors, subcontractors, manufacturers, and insurance companies. A construction accident lawyer specializes in personal injury law and is familiar with the specific rules and regulations governing construction sites.
They possess a comprehensive understanding of the claims process, including the exact time limits for filing a claim, often referred to as the statute of limitations, which can vary significantly depending on the type of claim and jurisdiction.
Additionally, they are well-versed in the various kinds of damages, such as compensatory damages for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering, as well as punitive damages intended to deter wrongful conduct.
2. Investigation and Gathering of Evidence
A proper investigation is necessary to win a claim. However, there are numerous resources required to do that. A lawyer possesses the resources needed to carry out a proper investigation.
It may involve gathering witness statements, examining accident reports, and inspecting the construction site to find hazards that could have led to the accident. They will consult experts like engineers or safety experts to find out the cause of the accident. It identifies liability and finds negligence.
3. Negotiation Skills with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to protect their company. They may offer you a low settlement that doesn’t cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
A skilled construction accident lawyer is a great negotiator who understands the tactics used by insurance adjusters to undervalue claims. They will work to get you the proper compensation for your damages, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.
4. Experience with Workers’ Compensation Claims
If you are injured on a construction site, workers’ compensation may be your first step for compensation. However, dealing with the workers’ compensation system can be challenging.
A construction accident attorney has lots of experience handling these types of claims and can assist in getting you maximum compensation. They can assist in filing claims, appealing denials, and representing you in court if your employer or insurance company disputes the claim.
5. Pursuing Third-Party Claims
In some construction accident cases, you may pursue third-party and workers’ compensation claims. For example, if a defective device, like a faulty scaffold or a broken power tool, is the direct cause of your accident, you can sue the maker of that equipment.
Furthermore, if a subcontractor or a contractor neglects to follow safety measures, you can sue them as well. A construction accident lawyer can help identify whether a third-party claim is appropriate and ensure you are not leaving any potential compensation.
Conclusion
Construction accidents can be life-altering. It may leave victims with significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. A construction accident lawyer is well-equipped to handle the complexities of your case, ensuring that you receive the proper compensation to cover your losses. So, hiring a lawyer is often the best step toward obtaining justice and recovery after an accident on a construction site.
