Construction workers work in dangerous conditions every day. Whether they are working on small residential homes or skyscrapers, construction workers are entitled to a safe work environment. If construction workers are injured on the job, they may be eligible for compensation.
On-the-Job Injury Claims in Texas
Though many states require employers to carry workers’ compensation coverage, Texas does not. Many employers voluntarily have workers’ compensation coverage, however.
Workers’ compensation provides benefits to employees while shielding the employer from a civil lawsuit. If an employee is injured during the course of employment, benefits are usually available.
If the employer has decided not to carry workers’ compensation coverage, and an employee is injured at work, that employee may be able to bring a personal injury lawsuit against the employer.
An experienced Texas on-the-job injury attorney can help you understand which route you need to take in your case.
Possible Defendants in a Construction Site Injury Case
There are many parties involved with the construction of a building. Depending on the circumstances of the case, any or all of these individuals or entities may be held liable for a construction worker’s injuries. Defendants may include:
- Architects
- Engineers
- Site managers
- Contractors
- Surveyors
- Property owners
- Suppliers
To ensure a construction site remains safe, these parties must carefully plan the erection of a building and ensure that these plans are carried out safely.
For example, if one construction worker is assisting with the plumbing in a building, but another worker from an electrical company has left live wires unattended, the first construction worker may be able to file a claim against the electrical company for negligence if he is injured by the live wires.
Common Causes of Construction Site Injuries
There are a variety of injuries that construction workers may suffer on the job. These injuries may cause permanent disability or death. Common injuries may be caused by:
- A lack of proper safety gear
- Electrical shocks
- Fires and blasts
- Weak scaffolding
- Falls
- Repetitive movements
- Collapsing trenches
Some of the most commonly reported construction site injuries include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Shocks and electrocution
- Burns
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Breathing in dangerous chemicals
- Cuts and lacerations
- Muscle injuries
Construction workers who suffer injuries on the job should seek medical treatment as soon as possible and consult with an experienced construction injury attorney.
Helping Your Attorney with Your Construction Site Injury Claim
Though your attorney is able to handle much of your construction site injury claim on your behalf, there are still steps you should take to help your attorney strengthen your case. After all, your attorney depends on you to provide the facts of what happened, among other important details.
First, always be completely honest with your attorney about everything in your case. Often, something that you think is bad for your case is only a minor detail. If you do have to disclose something unfavorable for your case, providing advanced notice of it to your attorney helps your attorney resolve the matter.
Keep in touch with your attorney as well. Make sure to promptly respond to emails, phone calls, and letters. Provide all documentation and information when asked so that your case moves forward in a timely manner.
Keep your attorney up to date on your medical appointments. During many claims, the treatment for construction site injuries is ongoing. Your attorney needs to know the status of your treatment, as well as the amounts of any medical expenses you have incurred.
Call Brooker Law, PLLC Today to Learn About Your Legal Options
The construction site injury attorneys at Brooker Law, PLLC pursue all routes of recovery on your behalf so that you obtain the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with our firm, contact or call (214) 217-0277 today.