There are many things about working at a construction site that can make you feel like you might not have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim if you become injured. Especially in fields like this, you may be tempted to “suck it up” and work through the pain. You may also think that it comes with the territory and that you are bound to get injured in some way or another while you work at a construction site. Or, you may think that you will be injured again at some point and you would rather save up a workers’ compensation claim for something “more serious.” However, it is important to take any injury you get at a construction site seriously and you should file a claim for the accident.
What’s the danger in not taking this seriously?
It is important to consider what it would mean if you don’t take care of your injury right now and what that might mean in the future. Say, for instance, you slipped and fell at a construction site. You don’t think anything major happened but you hurt your leg and it never fully healed. Because of the environment you work in, a year later you get into another accident that not only injures your back but makes your old injury hurt worse. You may think that this is a more appropriate time to file a workers’ compensation claim and you may try to throw in that you injured your leg as well. This can make your claim more difficult. Your employer may believe you are trying to cover an old injury that you never told them about which may lead them to think that you aren’t being honest. This could end up damaging your current claim.
How do I even know if I’m eligible for workers’ compensation?
When you are employed as a construction worker and are injured on the job, it is likely that you have the basics for your workers’ compensation claim. Lawyers, like Queens, NY construction accident lawyers, from a firm such as Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. know that it is crucial you file a claim in a timely manner when you have been injured at a construction site. If you were clocked in and working, you have the right to file a claim. Additionally, if you suspect that your injury was caused by a third party’s negligence, you should speak with your lawyer about whether it is best to file a workers’ compensation claim or whether you should pursue a personal injury claim with the third party. Your lawyer will be able to best direct you as to what you should do.
Should I always work with a lawyer?
Though it is not always necessary to work with lawyers for workers’ compensation claims, it may make more sense when the case seems especially complicated or if you are still unsure of whether or not you are eligible. When you need to file a claim, turn to a team you can trust. Schedule your consultation now.
