If you work in the construction industry, you are well aware of the dangers that lurk around every corner. This doesn’t mean you will be involved in an accident, but you know that this could happen at some point.
As an employee, there are steps you can take to improve your overall level of safety. Just the same, you expect your employer to take all the appropriate steps in protecting you and your coworkers.
Here are some of the most important questions to answer with regard to a construction accident:
— What can you do to ensure that your rights to a safe workplace are not being compromised?
If you have any reason to believe that your workplace is unsafe, speak to your supervisor about the problem. Along with this, you can always reach out to OSHA if you don’t make any progress at the company level.
— What should you do if you are injured in a construction accident?
In addition to receiving immediate medical care, learn more about your legal rights. For example, you may be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. Along with this, there are times when filing a lawsuit is a possibility.
— Who is responsible if you are injured in a construction accident?
This depends on the details surrounding the accident. For example, your employer may be directly responsible. In some cases, however, it’s a third party contractor that acted in a negligent manner.
When you answer these questions, among others, you’ll know how to move forward in the event of an injury caused by a construction accident.
Source: FindLaw, “Construction Injuries FAQ,” accessed Nov. 10, 2016