Athens Construction Workers’ Accident Lawyers

Jobs in the construction industry consistently rank among the most dangerous occupations, as determined by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). People who work in construction are more likely to suffer severe or fatal workplace injuries. Although most Georgia businesses must offer workers’ compensation, a construction site injury can result in financial hardship and physical and emotional suffering.

If you suffered an injury on a construction site, an Athens construction workers’ accident lawyer can be a tremendous ally who can help you pursue the most from your insurance and legal claims. The law firm of R. Alan Cleveland, LLC takes on workers’ compensation cases for injured construction workers or for family members who lost a loved one on the job.

You don’t have to deal with bureaucracy and mountains of paperwork when trying to recover from a construction accident injury. Let our experienced attorneys assist you, beginning with a free consultation. Contact R. Alan Cleveland, LLC today to learn more.

What Are the Most Common Construction Site Injuries?

There’s a reason why construction sites have warning signs for workers, visitors, and the public. These locations are loud, busy, and dangerous places where individuals should take precautions to avoid injuring themselves and others. Some of the most common construction site injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Broken bones
• Burns
• Electrocutions
• Back and spine injuries
• Muscles, tendons, and ligaments injuries
• Exposure to harmful substances

What Are Common Causes of Accidents on Construction Sites?

The “Fatal Four” are the four leading causes of fatalities in the construction industry, as identified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These four hazards are responsible for a significant majority of construction-related deaths:

• Falls – Falls from heights, such as roofs, ladders, or scaffolding, are a leading cause of injury and death in construction. Lack of fall protection measures and inadequate safety training can cause these incidents.
• Struck by object – Workers being struck by objects, such as falling tools, materials, or equipment, is another significant source of injury and loss of life. Failure to secure tools or materials properly and inadequate safety zones frequently result in these accidents.
• Electrocution – Accidents involving electrical hazards, such as contact with live wires or faulty equipment, can lead to electrocution. Inadequate training, lack of proper personal protective equipment, and failure to follow electrical safety procedures contribute to these incidents.
• Caught-in/between – This category includes incidents where workers get caught in or between machinery, equipment, or structures. Examples include getting caught in moving machinery or between a piece of equipment and a fixed object. Inadequate guarding and lack of proper training can cause these accidents.

Are All Construction Companies in Athens Required to Provide Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

Georgia law requires companies, including construction companies, with three or more employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This includes both full- and part-time workers. There are a few exceptions to this, such as U.S. government employees, railroad carriers, farm laborers, and domestic servants.

Can I Receive Workers’ Comp If I Am an Independent Contractor?

Independent contractors are usually exempt from workers’ compensation coverage. They are typically responsible for obtaining private health and liability insurance.

What’s the difference between an independent contractor and an employee? Independent contractors receive a 1099 form to include on their federal income tax return, while employees receive a W-2. In most circumstances, someone is likely an independent contractor if they:

• Get paid for each project, not for their time
• Control when, where, and how they work
• Bring their own tools
• Perform work that’s not the core function of the employer’s business

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover for a Construction Accident Injury?

Georgia workers’ compensation laws cover approved expenses following construction accidents. These include:

• Emergency medical care and transport
• Hospital bills
• Doctor and specialist visits
• Prescriptions
• Physical therapy
• Medical and vocational rehabilitation

The duration of your workers’ compensation wage benefits depends on the nature and extent of your injuries. After a construction site accident, you could receive:

• Two-thirds of your average weekly wages while you cannot work because of your injuries
• Reduced weekly benefits if you cannot return to your job and must accept a lower-paying position
• Benefits based on certain categories of permanent disability

Can I File a Lawsuit Against a Third Party for My Injuries?

State workers’ compensation laws prevent Georgia employees from suing their employers for workplace injuries in most cases. However, it is possible to file a lawsuit against someone other than your employer if they caused or contributed to your injuries. Potential third parties that could be accountable include:

• Subcontractors or independent contractors
• Property owners if the incident took place on property owned by a third party
• Negligent drivers in work-related transportation accidents
• Manufacturers of defective equipment
• Negligent training or supervision by an outside contractor or vendor

What Is the Deadline for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Georgia?

You have one year to file a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia. There are several steps in the accident claim process:

• Report the incident promptly – Notify your employer of any on-the-job accident immediately, but no later than 30 days after the event.
• Get medical treatment – You’ll need to obtain treatment from an approved workers’ compensation board physician, except for emergency or life-saving care. If this applies to your situation, find an approved doctor once your condition is stable.
• Collect essential documents – These include the WC-14 form, prescription receipts, medical bills, and employment-related records.
• Consult with a qualified attorney – You have the right to work with an Athens construction accident lawyer, who can help you complete the forms, explain your injury, and specify the benefits you are seeking. They can file the documents on your behalf and represent you at a workers’ compensation hearing, mediation, or appeal.

Contact an Athens Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

You have rights after a construction accident injury. An experienced Athens workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand and pursue the benefits you’re owed under state law. However, you have a short time to file a claim, so don’t delay. Call the law firm of R. Alan Cleveland, LLC for a free consultation with an Athens construction workers’ accident lawyer today.