Bozeman Construction Accident Lawyer

Types of Construction Accidents

Unfortunately, construction sites are dangerous places. When an accident occurs, it can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Some of the most common types of accidents include:

Falls

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls are some of the biggest threats to construction workers. In fact, these accidents account for the majority of construction site fatalities.

Many of these incidents happen when they occur from a great height, but severe injuries can also arise from a slip and fall at ground level.

Falling Objects

Falling objects are other serious concerns on the job sites. These incidents often occur due to:

• Improper securing or moving of loads
• Not wearing protective headgear
• Improper housekeeping around the site
• Lack of hazard communication

Materials, tools, and other objects can fall from scaffolds, cranes, and roofs, which can cause significant injuries, especially if they have fallen from a great height.

Electrocutions

Unfortunately, electrocutions are another cause of on-site accidents. Some jobs require workers to handle high-voltage electricity or come in contact with exposed wiring, leading to severe injuries and even death.

Becoming Trapped or Crushed

When a worker is caught, crushed, squeezed, or compressed by an object, it can be a serious situation. Most of the time, these accidents occur due to a lack of communication or proper safety protocols.

Injuries on a Construction Site

With those types of potential accidents, a worker could experience a wide range of serious injuries, such as:

• Broken bones due to falls, being struck by objects, or accidents with machinery.
• Spinal cord injuries caused by falls from height or accidents involving heavy machinery can lead to paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
• Back injuries are common in construction due to the physical nature of the work. They can result from lifting heavy objects or from repetitive strain.
• Burns result from electrical accidents, fires, or explosions on the site.
• Brain injuries are caused by falls, being struck by an object, or an accident with machinery. They can lead to long-term cognitive issues.
• Head injuries result from falling objects or accidents with machinery.
• Eye injuries and vision damage are due to flying debris, chemical splashes, or intense light.
• Loss of limbs may be possible when an accident involves heavy machinery or power tools.
• Chemical exposure injuries happen when workers are exposed to hazardous substances without proper protection. This accident can lead to respiratory diseases, skin conditions, or even cancer.

Can I Recover Damages for a Construction Injury?

You have a few legal options in Montana if you have suffered any injury on a construction site. You may be eligible for one avenue to seek compensation, depending on your specific situation.

Workers’ Compensation

Montana law requires that most employers have workers’ compensation insurance. This type of coverage benefits any employee who suffers an injury while performing their job duties.

If you have been injured on the job, always report the incident to your employers and get medical help. You will need to fill out a compensation form to start the process. These accidents are generally covered under the employer’s workers’ compensation policy. In these cases, there is no need to prove who was at fault for the incident.

These benefits will cover a wide range of costs, such as:

• Medical expenses, such as hospital visits, rehabilitation costs, and medication.
• Lost wages during the time you are unable to work.
• Permanent disability if the injury is so severe that you cannot return to work.

Third-Party Claims

While you cannot sue your employer or coworker for your injuries, you can pursue a third-party claim. In these situations, someone other than your employer was negligent in their action, leading to your inquiry. These parties can include:

• Contractors
• Subcontractors
• Property owners
• Equipment manufacturers

With these claims, you may be able to seek compensation in addition to your workers’ compensation benefits. However, you will need to present evidence that a third party’s misconduct contributed to the accident.

A Bozeman construction injury lawyer can help determine whether you have a viable third-party claim.

Why You Need to Hire a Bozeman Construction Injury Lawyer

Sometimes, you may need legal assistance for your claim. While employers will have workers’ compensation insurance, the company may try to deny your claim. They may say it was a pre-existing injury or happened while you were not at the job site.

For those who want to file a third-party lawsuit, you might find similar roadblocks to your case. Here are some reasons you may want to hire a Bozeman construction injury lawyer for your case.  With their extensive knowledge of laws and regulations concerning construction accidents, construction injury attorneys have the legal prowess to navigate workers’ compensation and third-party claims.

Dealing with insurance companies after a construction injury can be stressful.

A construction injury lawyer can handle all communications with them on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process. Insurance companies and construction companies may try to rush you into settling your claim. Without legal advice, you may not get a fair deal. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

If your case goes to court, a construction injury lawyer can represent you, providing support and guidance throughout these proceedings. They will protect your rights, and you have the best chance of success.

With any legal action, there are important deadlines to meet. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your case. An attorney can help make sure that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time, so you don’t have to worry about missing any critical dates.

A Bozeman construction injury lawyer can advise you on the best course of action. They will help you understand your options to make the best decision for your case.

If you have been injured on a job site in Montana, you have rights. At Western Justice Associates, PLLC, we have helped accident victims get the compensation they deserve. Schedule your consultation today.