construction worker injured at work being administered with first aid

Were you injured in a construction accident in Peachtree Corners? If so, you might suffer from painful injuries and face a long road to recovery. You do not have to go through this challenging time alone. An experienced attorney from Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC, can protect your rights and interests after a construction accident. Our legal team helps injured Georgians like you pursue construction accident compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other injury-related losses. We are dedicated to delivering top-notch service while helping clients seek the financial relief they need to move forward with their lives. Contact our office today for a free initial consultation with a Peachtree Corners construction accident lawyer and learn more about your legal options.

construction worker injured at work being administered with first aid

What to Do After a Construction Accident

The aftermath of a construction accident can be overwhelming, and you may be unsure of what to do. You can take the following steps to protect your right to file a claim or lawsuit:

  • Seek immediate medical attention – Even if you think your injuries are minor, getting checked out by a doctor as soon as possible after an accident is essential, as some injuries don’t manifest symptoms immediately.
  • Notify your employer – Immediately report the accident to your supervisor or safety manager. In an emergency, ask a trusted colleague or friend to provide notice for you. Once you have received medical treatment, you should provide written notice, including details of when, where, and how the accident occurred.
  • Gather information – Take photos of the accident scene and your injuries. Keep records of your medical treatment and related expenses.
  • Speak with an experienced construction accident attorney – An attorney can review the facts of your case and advise you of your legal rights and options for seeking compensation after a construction site injury.

Georgia Construction Accident Statistics

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 40 fatal work injuries in Georgia’s private construction sector in one recent year, the highest of all industries in the state. Fatal occupational injuries in the private construction industry accounted for 21 percent of all deadly work injuries statewide. The majority of these fatal injuries occurred among specialty trade contractors.

Main Causes of Construction Accidents

Construction accident injuries occur for various reasons. Some of the leading causes of construction accidents include the following:

  • Unsafe property conditions or equipment
  • Lack of protection from falls for employees working at heights
  • Lack of protection from falling objects
  • Lack of protection or safety protocols for employees working near power lines
  • Lack of protection for employees working in trenches
  • Tripping hazards created by construction materials and waste

Common Injuries Suffered in Construction Accidents

Construction sites often contain numerous hazards that can cause severe injuries to workers. Some of the most common construction accident injuries include:

  • Head and brain injuries – Workers may suffer concussions, skull fractures, bleeding in the brain, or other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) if they are struck by objects, fall from heights, or get crushed by machinery or equipment. These brain injuries often cause long-term cognitive impairment.
  • Broken bones – Fractures are common in many construction accidents, including when workers fall from heights, get struck by objects, or slip and fall due to hazardous conditions.
  • Spinal cord damage – Injuries to the back or neck can damage the spinal cord, often resulting in partial or total paralysis in the limbs or other body parts.
  • Burns – Coming into contact with live electric wires or hot equipment may cause disfiguring and painful thermal burns.
  • Amputations – Machinery, power tools, and other heavy equipment can crush or sever fingers, hands, arms, or legs.
  • Hearing loss – Loud noise from heavy equipment and power tools can cause permanent hearing damage.
  • Internal organ damage – Being struck by or crushed under heavy objects may damage vital organs like the heart, lungs, liver, or kidneys.

Compensation Available in Georgia Construction Site Accident Claims

Workers injured in construction site accidents in Georgia typically are covered by workers’ compensation insurance through their employers. This program provides qualifying employees with medical, rehabilitation, and income benefits if injured at work. Workers’ compensation is no-fault insurance, meaning it does not matter who is responsible for the accident that caused the employee’s injuries.

If your injuries were caused by someone other than your employer, you could be entitled to seek compensation through a third-party claim. The parties who could be liable for your injuries in these circumstances include:

  • Contractors and developers who fail to maintain safe work sites
  • Manufacturers of defective equipment/machinery
  • Architects, engineers, and designers who create flawed plans
  • Property owners who do not address hazards
  • Subcontractors who violate safety procedures

A successful third-party claim may allow you to pursue additional compensation, including money for intangible losses such as physical pain and suffering from your injuries. An experienced construction accident lawyer can review your case and determine what compensation is available to you.

Do I Need an Attorney?

Whether seeking workers’ compensation benefits or filing a third-party claim, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly increase your chances of securing a successful outcome. A lawyer can handle all the paperwork for your claim and ensure it is filed correctly and on time. Should your claim for workers’ comp be denied, an attorney can help you appeal and fight for the benefits you deserve. An attorney can also prepare your case for court should you need to file a lawsuit against a third party.

You need time to heal after a construction accident. Our Peachtree Corners construction accident lawyers can prepare your legal case so you can focus on what matters.