A construction accident can cause serious injuries and keep you out of work for an extended period of time. If this happens to you, you’re likely entitled to compensation, but it’s important to make sure that you are not leaving any potential money on the table. A Prince George’s County construction accident lawyer from our firm can help you determine who should be held liable for your injuries and what kind of compensation would be fair.
What Needs to Be Done After a Construction Accident?
In the immediate aftermath of a construction accident, you should act to protect yourself and build a potential case for compensation. If you are able to, you should:
- Take pictures of the accident scene and any nearby hazards
- Talk to any witnesses
- Report the injury to your employer
- Get medical care as soon as possible
- Talk to an attorney
What Can Be Used as Evidence After a Construction Accident?
When you apply for workers’ compensation, you do not need to show that someone was negligent in order to claim benefits. If you plan to sue a third party for damages after a construction accident, then you need to meet that burden of proof. This is why it’s important to document everything and gather as much evidence as you can. Some things that can be useful include:
- Your photographs of the accident scene
- Eyewitness testimony
- Medical bills
- Testimony from medical professionals about your condition
- Defective machinery
- The presence of obvious hazards on a construction site
Can I Sue For Pain and Suffering After a Construction Accident?
You can, if you file a third-party injury claim. When you receive workers’ compensation, pain and suffering damages are not part of the deal. These benefits are meant to help make up medical expenses and the pay you lose out on while you are recovering after a construction accident.
If another party contributed to your accident, suing them might be an option. A good example of this is when a piece of defective machinery causes harm on a job site. If you can show that the company that made the machine was negligent, you can win damages for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Should I Hire a Lawyer?
A lawyer from our firm can help you whether you apply for workers’ comp, sue a third party for damages, or do both. Proving negligence and building a case on your own, but our experienced attorneys are ready to assist you with that. If you have questions about the legal process, how to claim compensation, or how long you have to pursue damages, we’re here to answer them.
Contact Our Firm Today
When you are ready to learn more about your legal options, contact McCarthy, Winkelman & Mester, L.L.P. We can schedule a free case consultation for you. Make sure that you are claiming the maximum compensation and let our lawyers help you build your case.
