Were you injured in a construction accident in Atlanta, GA? A serious accident can cause life-altering injuries, leaving you with expensive medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. However, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the expenses and losses you have incurred due to your injuries. Turn to an Atlanta construction accident lawyer from Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC for help pursuing the money you deserve.
With a track record of success, our personal injury law firm advocates for the interests of accident victims in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Our team has extensive experience and in-depth knowledge to help clients in even the most difficult cases. You can expect us to fight hard to secure maximum results for you.
Reach out to Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC for a free initial case evaluation with an Atlanta construction accident lawyer. We are standing by to answer your questions and guide you through your legal options for financial recovery.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
Construction was the second most dangerous occupation in Georgia one recent year, with 35 fatal occupational injuries reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Many more construction accidents cause serious injuries each year throughout the state. Some common causes of these construction accidents include:
- Allowing untrained or uncertified workers to use heavy equipment or machinery
- Defective or poorly maintained tools, equipment, and machinery
- Exposed power lines or electrical wires
- Not securing items and materials from falling
- Improper storage of toxic or flammable materials
- Lack of bracing or supports for unstable structures or trenches
- Lack of fall protection
- Lack of guards or safety features on power tools and equipment
- Lack of safety policies or procedures or failure to train and enforce existing policies and procedures
- Slipping and tripping hazards, including liquid spills, cords, uneven flooring surfaces, snow, and ice
Injuries Sustained in Construction Site Accidents
The hazards associated with construction sites can lead to a wide range of debilitating injuries in the event of an accident, including:
- Crush injuries
- Electrocution injuries
- Toxic exposure and chronic health conditions such as asbestosis or cancer
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Lacerations, abrasions, perforation injuries, and degloving injuries
- Traumatic amputation or limb loss
- Burns and smoke inhalation injuries
- Broken bones
- Dislocated joints
- Sprains, strains, and tears
- Facial injuries
- Hearing and vision damage
- Internal organ injuries and bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Herniated disc injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
What to Do After a Construction Accident
Steps you should take after being injured in a construction accident in Atlanta include:
- Report the accident to your supervisor or employer if you were injured on the job. If you were injured as a bystander, report it to the construction company or property owner.
- Document the accident scene by taking photos and videos and getting the contact information of any eyewitnesses.
- Seek prompt medical attention from a doctor to have your injuries diagnosed and documented as caused by the construction accident. Follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan and instructions.
- Keep copies of bills and invoices for expenses you incur due to your injuries, as well as your pay stubs or income statements if you miss work or have reduced income.
- Contact an Atlanta construction accident attorney from Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC as soon as possible to protect your rights to financial compensation.
Who Is At Fault After a Construction Accident in Georgia?
Parties who may have liability to compensate you for your injuries from a construction accident include:
- Your employer, who is liable to pay you workers’ compensation benefits if you were injured on the job
- Construction companies and subcontractors, such as scaffolding companies, crane companies, or excavation companies
- Construction materials suppliers
- Construction site property owners
- Tool, equipment, and machinery manufacturers
- Other third parties, such as truck drivers making deliveries to the construction site
Compensation Available in Georgia Construction Accident Claims
Depending on the circumstances of the construction accident, you may have several options for pursuing compensation. First, you may be entitled to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits if you were injured on the job in a construction accident. Under Georgia’s workers’ compensation system, you may receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits.
If you were hurt by someone other than your employer or were simply a bystander, an Atlanta construction accident lawyer can help you file a lawsuit against the liable party. Doing so could recover compensation for your:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Long-term care for permanent disabilities, including home health services, medical and mobility equipment, or home renovations to add disability accommodations
- Lost wages and job benefits
- Reduced future expected earnings
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma or distress
- Lost enjoyment and quality of life
Time Limit for Pursuing Compensation After a Construction Accident in Atlanta
How long you have to secure compensation for your injuries depends on which option you are pursuing. In most workers’ compensation cases, you only have one year after the construction accident to file a claim. You also need to report the injury within 30 days before you risk losing your right to receive benefits.
If you are pursuing a personal injury claim against someone else, Georgia’s statute of limitations typically gives you two years to file a lawsuit. While this does not apply to settlement negotiations, you are more likely to receive a fair settlement if you can still pursue a lawsuit. A skilled Atlanta construction accident lawyer can review your case, help you determine your best option for compensation, and ensure you meet all relevant deadlines.
