Construction sites can be dangerous places for workers and visitors alike. Sometimes, you can be injured just walking near a construction worksite by falling debris.

While construction site injuries could be severe or life-threatening, you can collect compensation to pay medical bills and other costs. The odds of receiving compensation can be higher with the help of an experienced construction accident lawyer.

When To Hire a Construction Accident Lawyer

There are different types of construction accident claims. If you are an injured employee at the construction site, workers’ compensation insurance may cover your workplace injuries. Workers’ compensation benefits cover medical expenses and wage replacement. However, workers’ comp generally doesn’t allow for a personal injury claim.

If you are a general contractor, subcontractor, or vendor to the site, you may be able to claim damages for a construction accident injury with a personal injury lawsuit. The negligent construction company or property owners may be liable for serious injuries or wrongful death. You or your loved ones can file a construction accident lawsuit against the at-fault party for damages.

It is a good idea to hire a construction accident attorney as soon as you are hurt. In California, for example, you have two years from the time of an injury to file a lawsuit. In a workplace accident lawsuit, the employer may be liable under workers’ compensation claim laws.

However, it may be possible to file a personal injury case against the manufacturer of any equipment that may have caused an injury. In New York, you have up to three years from the time of an accident to file a personal injury case. In many cases, an attorney will suggest filing a lawsuit right away, even if the case is ultimately settled without needing a trial.

Four Questions To Ask a Construction Accident Lawyer

It is generally a good idea for you to interview multiple attorneys before choosing one to represent your interests in court. Ideally, an attorney will answer your questions clearly and thoroughly. You may want to look for an attorney who seems genuinely interested in the case and what they can do.

Question #1: How Long Have You Practiced Law?

While a lawyer who has just graduated from college could be a quality advocate, experience is vital in these cases. An experienced attorney might know more about personal injury law and construction accident cases. Knowledge can help you navigate the complexities of your case.

Experienced attorneys also have relationships with judges and prosecutors that might help in a case if it goes to trial. Furthermore, an experienced attorney may have relationships with expert witnesses or other professionals who could help bolster your case.

Question #2: What Is Your Typical Settlement Range for Cases Like Mine?

There is no guarantee of how much money an attorney can win for injured construction workers. However, it is a good idea to know what types of compensation may be available for work-related injuries.

In most construction accident cases, you might be entitled to have your medical treatment paid and lost wages. It is also possible to receive punitive damages that may hold an employer responsible for their current or past behavior.

Question #3: What Is Your Fee Structure?

You are not typically required to pay an attorney unless you receive a settlement or jury award. Once you are compensated, an attorney may take a percentage of the award on a contingency fee basis. In some cases, a percentage of any money won is earmarked specifically for lawyer fees. This means that an attorney could be paid without you losing any money needed to pay bills.

Question #4: What Out-of-Pocket Expenses Am I Responsible For?

There are several costs that attorneys may incur throughout a case. These costs include paying expert witnesses, ordering lab tests, or hiring outside professionals to assist in a legal defense. While some attorneys will cover all of these costs, others will not. It is also possible that these costs will be deducted from any financial award granted to an injured victim.

Take Legal Action Through an Attorney

Talking to an experienced construction accident attorney for legal advice is always your best course of action. It makes it easier for the injured party to preserve their rights.

Many personal injury lawyers offer a free initial consultation. This is a good chance for you to talk to the lawyer, find out about their experience, and decide if they are the right lawyer for you. You can ask the lawyer about their experience in these types of legal actions, dealing with the insurance company, and how a settlement offer can cover your medical care.