Injured On The Construction Site: What Can You Do?

If you've been injured on the job while working construction, there are options available, so you don't have to pay for your medical expenses and missing wages on your own. If you are not sure what you can do after you've been injured at work, check out these actions you must consider.

File a Workers' Compensation Claim

It's the law that most businesses have workers' compensation insurance, so if an employee is injured on the job, they cannot sue the company. Instead, you file a claim, and the workers' compensation insurance company provides you with money for medical bills and some lost wages. The best thing about workers' compensation is that you don't have to prove someone else caused the injury. Even if your own carelessness caused your injury, you should be covered (unless drugs, alcohol or other dangerous behavior is performed). Because workers' compensation only cares if you were legitimately injured on the job, not who is at fault, they usually pay quickly.

Consider Filing a Personal Injury Claim

In some cases, you can and should also file a personal injury claim. Typically, this is only allowed in certain situations. For example, if your boss intentionally punched you, you may be able to sue your boss in addition to filing the workers' compensation claim. On the downside, personal injury claims are more complicated because you have to prove the other person caused the injury (and in some cases, that they meant to). This means you may not get all the money you are owed right away. On the other hand, you can sue for pain and suffering too, which isn't an option with workers' compensation.

Hire Personal Injury Lawyer

If you can and do decide to file a personal injury claim, you need to get a lawyer. Because personal lawsuits are so much more complicated than workers' compensation claims, you need someone who has the knowledge and training to help you get the most of what you deserve without getting into trouble. For example, if you do get money from a personal injury lawsuit, you may be required to repay some money to workers' compensation, your lawyer will be able to help guide you during this process.

If you've been injured on the job, you may have the right to file a worker's compensation claim and a personal injury claim. If so, make sure you have a reputable and skilled attorney in your corner. For more information, contact an injury attorney in your area today.