Construction Accident Lawyer Rockville Centre
Ways to Prevent Construction Site Accidents
A construction accident lawyer Rockville Centre clients trust knows that accidents at construction sites happen on a daily basis and they can result in some serious injuries, like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
Each Rockville Centre construction accident lawyer from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. has represented many clients who have been injured at construction sites. To reduce the risk of these accidents, it’s important to be extra cautious when working around a construction site. Here are some ways to prevent construction site accidents:
Always Be Aware of Your Surroundings
A construction accident lawyer Rockville Centre families count on knows there are many hazards around a construction site, like electrical wiring and falling debris. That’s why it is critical to be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you are not paying attention, you could get hit by an object or get electrocuted by stepping on electrical wiring.
Inform Your Employer About Dangerous Working Conditions
If you notice a hazard at your construction site, like broken machinery, you should let your employer know right away. This way, they can get it fixed and prevent anyone from getting injured. If your employer does not do anything about the dangerous condition, you should contact the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and let them know. If you are injured, contact a construction accident lawyer Rockville Centre workers recommend.
Wear Safety Gear
If you work at a construction site, you should never underestimate the importance of safety gear. It could potentially save your life. Make sure to always wear the suggested safety gear, like safety goggles, a hat, and gloves.
Take Regular Breaks
Construction work is hard work, so it is important to take breaks during your shift to rest and refuel. If you attempt to work without any breaks, your body can get fatigued, increasing your risk of getting into an accident.
Wear Reflective Clothing
Construction sites are often next to busy roads. If drivers are speeding or not paying attention, they can hit you with their vehicles. That’s why it is a wise idea to wear reflective clothes when you are working at a construction site. You will be more visible to cars, reducing your chances of getting hit.
Don’t Operate Equipment You’re Not Trained to Use
Many construction site accidents occur when workers attempt to operate equipment they’re not trained to use. Even if you think a machine looks like it is easy to operate, you shouldn’t try to use it until you’ve been properly trained.
Put Away Tools When You’re Done with Them
Slip and fall accidents on construction sites are quite common. One way to reduce the likelihood of these types of accidents is to always put your tools away when you’re finished using them. This way, no one can accidentally trip on these tools and get hurt.
Let a Construction Accident Lawyer Rockville Centre Victims Call Help You
If you were hurt in a construction site accident, you deserve to talk to a construction accident lawyer in Rockville Centre from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. We may be able to help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. If you would like to set up a free consultation with a construction accident lawyer Rockville Centre provides, we encourage you to call us at (718) 875-0909.
Myths About Construction Site Safety
Construction sites can be quite dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions about construction site safety that can result in dangerous work practices. Here are some common construction safety myths a construction accident lawyer Rockville Centre residents trusts hears:
- Personal Protective Equipment Is Enough to Protect Construction Workers: Although it is important for construction workers to always wear hard hats and other safety equipment, it will not guarantee that accidents won’t happen. Protection equipment should be used in conjunction with machine guards and safe working practices. For instance, hard hats can reduce the risk of head injuries if workers are hit by tools or materials that come off a scaffold. However, if debris nets are installed on the scaffold, these accidents will not happen in the first place.
- Construction Workers Only Need Safety Training When They’re New: It is a myth that safety training solely for new hires. In reality, workers should continue to receive safety training to help reinforce the lessons they have learned. They may forget some of the safety information they were taught in the past and need a refresher every now and again.
- Only Safety Managers Are Responsible for Safety: Safety managers definitely play an important role in improving safety on construction sites. However, as a construction accident lawyer in Rockville Centre can confirm, they can’t be everywhere making sure construction workers are following safety rules. Everyone in the workplace is responsible for ensuring the construction site is safe. Workers should always be aware of their surroundings and report safety hazards immediately.
- Following OSHA Standards Guarantee Safety: It is of course important for all construction companies to follow OSHA safety standards. However, these standards are just the bare minimum of what these companies have to do to prevent accidents. They should also look for ways to improve their safety programs for their workers.
- Disciplinary Action is Key to Enforcing Safety Rules: Although it’s important to take disciplinary action against employees who do not follow safety rules, it can’t be relied on as the sole remedy for enforcing safety guidelines. Supervisors are unable to constantly monitor employees and ensure they are following safety rules. That is why proper hiring and training must be implemented.
When you are the victim in a construction accident, you need the help of Rockville Centre construction accident lawyers from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. today. When you’re injured on the job, you may sustain mild injuries that you can quickly recover from, or you may find that you are out from work for weeks or months at a time. Unfortunately, construction accident injuries can end up being extremely severe, and may result in months off of work or even permanent leave. When this is the case, you might struggle financially and wonder if you should get the help of construction accident lawyers in Rockville Centre to file a claim. Below, you will find out more information on why construction accident injuries are so serious and how an attorney from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. can help you with your claim. To set up a consultation, please contact our office today.
Why would you need Rockville Centre construction accident lawyers for your injury?
Unfortunately, just because you sustained an injury on the job and received medical attention for it does not mean that you will get the compensation you deserve. You may believe that you have all of your ducks in a row when it comes to filing your paperwork and getting medical documentation, but it is possible that your workers’ compensation claim can be denied. Additionally, you may be considering pursuing a lawsuit which can become quite complicated.
Potential Losses
When you sustain an injury at a construction site, there are several types of damages you may receive, including:
- Lost Wages
- Medical Expenses
- Future Medical Expensive
- Physical Therapy
When should I hire construction accident lawyers in Rockville Centre, New York?
While you may decide to hire a construction accident attorney halfway through the legal process or after your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, it could be extremely beneficial to hire a lawyer during the earlier stages of the process. This can ensure that you avoid making large mistakes during the filing process. Additionally, you will likely need to cover your own medical bills early on during the process, and the sooner you get in touch with construction accident lawyers Rockville Centre trusts, the sooner we can help you regarding your compensation.
The insurance company has offered me a settlement. Should I just take it?
No. When someone from an insurance company calls you—or a representative of your employer—regarding an insurance offer, you should always speak with your attorney first to go over the offer and decide if it’s one you should take. In most cases, the insurance company will send you and offer that is extremely low in hopes of getting you to sign the paperwork and allowing them to pay as little as possible for your injuries. While it may seem like a nice number at the start, you will likely find that what they offer does not cover your lost wages in full as well as any ongoing medical treatment. Before you accept anything, discuss the offer with your attorney. At our firm, we are confident when we talk with insurance representatives.
If you have been injured at a construction site during work and believe that you should be compensated for these injuries, do not hesitate to contact Rockville Centre construction accident lawyers from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. now to discuss your options.
What to Do If You Were Injured on a Construction Site
Even if you follow all of the safety rules, accidents can still sometimes happen. If you were recently hurt on a construction site, you may be entitled to compensation. It is important to talk to a construction accident lawyer in Rockville Centre about your options as soon as possible. He or she will help you bring a claim against your employer and ensure your legal rights are protected.
If you have been injured, or become ill, while working on the job, your only recourse for monetary compensation will almost certainly be through the workers’ compensation system. In general, you cannot file a lawsuit against your employer unless a legal exception applies. For example, if you are a construction worker who is a fully recognized employee of a large company, you will likely be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, if you work in the construction industry as an independent contractor, you may need to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. An experienced Rockville Centre construction accident lawyer can help you to explore your legal options, no matter what your position is within the industry. The legal team at Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. has extensive experience helping injured workers obtain compensation through various legal means and would be happy to support you at this time.
Benefits Are Available Regardless of Who is to Blame
The workers’ compensation system in the U.S. has been set up to be a no-fault system. This means that whether you were at fault, your employer was at fault, an employee is to blame, or it was a mere accident, you can receive the benefits if you are entitled to them. All that matters is that you are eligible for coverage, you were on the job and suffered an injury or illness while working. This system has been established to protect all parties. Employees can get access to medical care and a portion of their salary while the employer can save time and money from being sued. With that said, there are times when it makes sense to explore a legal alternative. An experienced Rockville Centre construction accident lawyer can assist you, in either event.
Compensation
The amount of money you receive for your injury is limited. Unlike a lawsuit that allows you to receive money for pain, suffering, or punitive damages, you will only receive money for your medical treatment and part of your salary. Disability benefits may also be available, as may be death benefits in the event you lose your life. Depending on the state, workers’ compensation benefits can be substantial. A Rockville Centre construction accident lawyer can explain what amount may be available in your situation.
Workers’ Compensation Does Not Cover All Employees
Only certain employees can apply for workers’ compensation benefits. If you are an independent contractor, volunteer or independent business owner, these benefits will likely not be available. Federal employees, maritime, and railroad workers’ can receive workers’ compensation, but through a separate system. Anyone concerned that they may not qualify for benefits should consider asking a Rockville Centre construction accident lawyer for assistance, as there are exceptions to most general workers’ compensation rules.
When You Can File a Lawsuit
If you are eligible for workers’ compensation, a lawsuit might only be filed when special factors apply. For example, your employee purposely tried to hurt you. This can be difficult to prove and you should have a lawyer. Bare in mind that even if your employer did something that was grossly negligence; for example, they require you to use a company car that was known to have bald tires, and you were injured in an accident after a tire blowout, you may not be able to file a lawsuit against the employer. A Rockville Centre construction accident lawyer can help to explain when a lawsuit may be warranted.
Client Review
“I used Mark Polsky and his team to help with my worker’s comp case. He and his team are professional and were always looking out for my best interests. They were always available to answer any questions I had, and checked in on me frequently to see how I was feeling, and provided me with updates on my case. I highly recommend them.”
Howard K.