Each job comes with its risks of accidents, injuries and illnesses; however, some industries are faced with significant risks. The construction industry is one that often places workers in situations where serious and fatal incidents are always possible. While safety measures are in place to guard workers from harm, these do not protect workers in case of negligence.
Construction accidents and injuries
Be it a falling object, malfunctioning heavy machinery, a trench collapse, electrocution or scaffolding fall, a construction site accident could be the result of a serious injury. Often, these injuries cause the worker to require extensive medical treatment and the inability to work while they recover. This adds financial damages to the physical, mental and emotional damages they are likely already suffering from.
Following a construction accident, it is imperative that you explore your legal rights, especially when it comes to securing workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits could provide an injured or ill worker with the funds they need to get the medical treatment, recover and return to work.
Workers’ compensation
In simple terms, workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to workers when they are injured, become ill or die in the workplace. When a worker decided to accept these benefits, it should be noted that this often means giving up the right to file a personal injury action against their employer. As such, it is crucial workers understand the full scope of their situation as well as all the available options to them.
If you decide to seek workers’ comp, there are certain benefits you are likely entitled to. To begin, this includes all reasonably necessary medical treatment. If the worker must take time away from work due to medical reasons related to the work injury, they could seek temporary disability payments. This helps offset some of the lost wages suffered.
Next, if it is determined that a worker will not completely recover from their injuries, a monetary award for permanent disability may be possible. Finally, if the injury suffered prevents the worker from returning to their job, they could be entitled to the benefit that aids in securing a new job. During vocational rehabilitation, partial income is received, which is like what is paid for temporary disability.
If you suffered a work injury, it is important that you report the injury to your employer right away and seek medical attention. If seeking workers’ compensation is the step you want to take or desire to learn more about the process, a legal professional can explain the process and answer any questions you might have.