Workers can get injured in all sorts of worksites, but an accident at a construction site can be particularly dangerous. When workers stand on unstable surfaces, around heavy machinery, exposed wiring and other potential hazards, a simple accident can lead to serious injury.
Given the extent of harm, both physically and financially, that can be caused to these individuals, they should be aware of the legal protections available to them if they have suffered a construction injury.
Workers’ compensation is the most common and can provide benefits to help offset medical expenses and lost wages.
The construction industry can be particularly dangerous for construction workers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that, of the 3.3 million nonfatal injuries and illnesses reported in 2009, more than 9% of those injuries were suffered by construction workers.
Common injuries construction workers may suffer can include fall injuries and injuries due to falling objects, such as construction equipment that is improperly secured. Fall injuries can occur from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, and other heights. In addition, construction workers can suffer equipment-related injuries, which can include back over injuries and crush injuries. Trench and building collapses can also result in serious injuries to victims. Additionally, workers can suffer injuries that result from fires and explosions or repetitive stress injuries.
Workers’ compensation benefits can help injured workers with their medical expenses, and lost wages, and it may also be able to help with other concerns injured workers face depending on the circumstances. It is important for workers who are injured in a construction accident or other type of workplace accident to be familiar with how workers’ compensation benefits can help them through their workplace injury.
