Construction Law FAQ
Q. How may construction accidents occur in the United States each year?
A. In 2000, approximately 16 workers were injured every day. This is in spite of OSHA and WISHA requirements. Close to 6 of these workers will die because of their injury.
Q. Which construction site activities pose the greatest threat?
A. Many construction accidents involve electrocution. Welding activities are another common cause of accidents. Trenching is another of the highest risk activities. Recently crane injuries and fatalities have been noted.
Q. If I am injured on the construction site, can I get compensation?
A. If you are injured on the construction site, you must first file a claim with Labor and Industry. You should contact a construction accident attorney to make sure that you aren’t entitled to more than L&I.
Q. How can I make sure that I get the compensation I deserve for my construction injury?
A. 1) Report any complaints immediately on the job site. 2) Visit the doctor and discuss all complaints, no matter how minor, with him/her. 3) Keep records, including photographs of your injuries. 4) Get the names of witnesses and their contact information. 5) Keep a journal in which you record everything relating to your recovery or lack thereof. 6) Discontinue treatment only if all symptoms are gone. It is better to reduce the frequency of visits than to discontinue them entirely. 7) See the right type of specialist(s) for your injury.
Q. Who is responsible for my injury?
A. The nature of the accident determines who can be held responsible. Legally, the general contractor and/or owner/developer must maintain a reasonably safe working environment. They are also responsible for the enforcement of industrial safety and health codes. If they are found to be negligent, you may be able to file a claim. Contacting a construction injury attorney is the best way to evaluate if you have a claim against these parties.
Q. My injury caused me to lose work. Can I get money for this?
A. Yes. As long as physician orders you to refrain from work, you are entitled to financial compensation for the duration of the time you are required to take medical leave. If you are unable to return to your job because of your injuries, you may also seek financial assistance to pay for learning new skills. Compensation for any difference in earnings between your new career and your old one can also be pursued.
Q. How soon after a construction accident must I file a personal injury lawsuit before I lose the right to do so?
A. In Washington, you have 3 years in which to file your claim but there are some exceptions. Please contact a lawyer immediately to determine if the three years applies to your case or not and precisely by when your statute of limitations shall run.
Q. How much does it cost to speak with you about my situation?
A. . We never charge for an initial consultation and for a review of the facts surrounding your case. Email Rob at Rob@Kornfeldlaw.com or call 1 (800) 282-4878 to schedule a case evaluation over the telephone, by e-mail or in person at a convenient location for you, either at our main office, a satellite meeting location, in your home or at the hospital.
