A qualified construction accident attorney can help you get compensation that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. They will use their skills to identify all the parties that could be liable, such as the property owner, general contractor, or equipment manufacturer. They will also ensure that your claims are filed within the applicable statute of limitations. This includes preserving evidence and investigating the scene of the accident.
Preserving Evidence
Accurate documentation is crucial after a construction accident. Skid marks on the ground wear away, security footage may be deleted within a few days, and witnesses forget details over time. Attorneys know how to protect and preserve this evidence promptly. They can also record audio or video statements from eyewitnesses and keep a journal of observations at the scene. This information can prove helpful in establishing negligence, industrial code violations, or worker safety statutes.
Additionally, a construction accident lawyer can immediately begin investigating the incident and uncover vital information that might help establish liable parties. They understand workers’ compensation laws and how to counter tactics from insurance companies that aim to reduce or deny your claim. This early groundwork helps ensure a strong legal case that maximizes your compensation.
Filing a Claim
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a construction accident, getting medical attention immediately is important. Doing so will help confirm the extent of your injuries and start a record of treatment. It can also be beneficial to report the incident to your employer so that they have it on file (it’s usually required). Construction accidents are often devastating for workers because they can result in long-term, debilitating health issues. This is why it is essential to get a construction accident attorney who understands how to calculate your actual damages is critical. A lawyer will consider the medical expenses you’ve already paid, future medical costs, lost wages and property damage to give you a full picture of what compensation you may be entitled to. Once the at-fault parties are determined, your lawyer will prepare a summons and complaint, which is then filed in court. During this process, your attorney will gather evidence to support your case, including employment authorizations, insurance information, contact information for witnesses, evaluations from doctors and other healthcare professionals, and photographic or video evidence.
Negotiating a Settlement
When someone is injured in a construction accident, they typically incur medical bills and lose wages from being out of work. A skilled attorney can negotiate compensation that covers these losses and more. This includes pain and suffering, disability, emotional distress, lost inheritance in a wrongful death case, end-of-life costs (if a fatal accident occurs), and other damages depending on the circumstances of the case.
A seasoned attorney can also leverage their experience with the insurance companies involved to help reduce the likelihood that a workers’ compensation claim will be disputed. They can keep track of legal deadlines and the complexities of the law to ensure a smooth resolution. This frees up time for the victim to focus on healing from their injuries or grieving the loss of a loved one. They can delegate the legal issues to their attorney, which allows them to avoid stress and frustration throughout the process. This is especially important when dealing with an insurance company seeking to minimize liability.
Filing a Lawsuit
If you happen to get injured while on the job, you have two options to receive compensation – file a workers’ compensation claim or sue for personal injury. However, having an experienced attorney is essential to ensure you get the most out of the situation. An experienced attorney is well-versed in the law and can offer the best counsel possible. In addition, they can make a third-party claim against a party other than your insurance provider or employer. This is a successful method of getting compensation for losses brought on by the collision, such as hospital bills, missed income, pain and suffering, and other costs you might have had to pay. An attorney can help you meet the deadlines and requirements for filing your claim, including the statute of limitations. They can also handle any denials or other issues during the process. In addition, they will make sure all necessary paperwork is completed correctly. They will also negotiate on your behalf to get the maximum settlement amount possible. This includes advising you whether to accept or reject an insurance company’s settlement offer.
