Columbia Construction Accident Attorneys

Representing Injured Workers Across Mid-Missouri

Construction sites are dangerous places, and workers face a high risk of injury every day. In the construction industry, it is an unfortunate reality that many accidents and injuries occur. This is due in part to the inherent risks of the work and the many ways in which workers can be injured, but it is also due to the negligence of employers and third parties.

If you or someone you love was injured in a construction accident, you are not alone. Thousands of workers are injured on construction sites every year, and many of them are entitled to compensation for their injuries and other losses. At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., our Columbia construction accident attorneys have helped numerous workers and their families following on-the-job accidents and injuries.

Our firm has been serving the injured in Columbia, Boone County, and throughout Mid-Missouri for decades. We understand the challenges you are facing, and we are here to help you fight for the justice and fair recovery you are owed. When you choose our team, you can trust that we will handle every aspect of your case and that we will fight tirelessly on your behalf.

For a free case review, please call us today at (888) 287-1046 or contact us online.

What Are the Most Common Types of Construction Accidents?

Construction sites are busy places, with many workers performing different tasks at the same time. There are also many pieces of heavy equipment and tools in use, and there are often multiple contractors and parties present on the site. With all of this going on, it is not surprising that accidents happen. The good news is that many of these accidents can be prevented if property owners and employers follow the law and take proper safety precautions.

Some of the most common types of construction accidents include:

• Falls from scaffolding, ladders, and roofs
• Being struck by falling objects
• Slip and falls
• Electrocution
• Being caught in or between machinery, equipment, or other objects
• Vehicle accidents
• Overexertion
• Repetitive motion injuries

These are just a few examples of the types of accidents that occur on construction sites. Others include trenching and excavation accidents, welding accidents, and more.

Who is Liable for a Construction Accident in Columbia?

If you are injured on a construction site, it is important to determine who is liable for your injuries. This is because you will need to file a claim with the appropriate insurer to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. In some cases, you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Liability in construction accidents can be complex, as many parties contribute to the work environment. A detailed investigation is often required to uncover the wrongful actions or negligence of the liable parties. This can include extensive evidence collection, interviews with witnesses, and analysis of employment records and worksite conditions. By working with experienced legal professionals, injured workers can navigate these complexities more effectively and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Depending on the circumstances of your accident, one or more parties may be liable, including:

• The property owner
• The employer
• Another contractor or subcontractor
• A coworker
• The manufacturer of a defective product

Our Columbia construction accident attorneys can help you investigate your accident and determine liability. We can also help you take legal action against the at-fault party to seek the compensation you deserve.

Can I Sue My Employer for a Construction Accident in Missouri?

Construction workers in Missouri are generally not able to sue their employers for on-the-job injuries, as they are covered by workers' compensation. However, there are some cases in which you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against your employer.

You may be able to sue your employer if:

• Your employer does not have workers' compensation insurance
• Your employer intentionally caused your injuries
• Your employer failed to carry out its legal duty to provide a safe working environment

If you are not able to sue your employer, you can still file a workers' compensation claim. Our Columbia construction accident lawyers can help you with every aspect of your claim, including filing an appeal if your claim was denied. We can also help you explore other legal options, such as filing a personal injury lawsuit against a third party.

What is the Difference Between Workers' Compensation and a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

Missouri requires most employers to carry workers' compensation insurance. This insurance is intended to provide benefits to workers injured on the job, regardless of who is at fault for the accident.

If you are injured on a construction site, you can file a workers' compensation claim with your employer's insurer. If your claim is approved, you will receive benefits for your medical expenses, a portion of your lost wages, and more. You are not required to prove that your employer was at fault for the accident to recover workers' comp benefits.

However, you generally not able recover compensation for physical pain and emotional suffering through workers' compensation. Additionally, you cannot recover punitive damages through workers' comp. If you are injured on a construction site, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party in addition to filing a workers' compensation claim. This allows you to pursue compensation for all of your losses, including pain and suffering and punitive damages.

Understanding the differences between these two legal avenues can empower injured workers to make informed decisions about their recovery strategy. Workers' compensation acts as a safety net but often limits overall recoverable damages. In contrast, personal injury lawsuits potentially offer broader compensation but require clear evidence of fault and liability. Our Columbia construction accident attorneys can assist in assessing your situation to determine the best course of action.

Get Help from Our Columbia Construction Accident Lawyers Today

Our firm offers a free initial consultation, so you have nothing to lose by meeting with our team to discuss your case. We handle all construction accident matters on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not owe any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

For a free case review, please call our Columbia construction accident lawyers today at (888) 287-1046 or contact us online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accidents

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Construction Accident in Columbia?

After a construction accident, it is crucial to prioritize your health and safety. First, seek medical attention immediately, even if you don't think you're seriously injured; some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Notifying your employer as soon as possible is essential, as timely reporting ensures that the incident is officially recorded, which will be vital for any workers' compensation or legal proceedings. Documenting the accident scene as best you can, taking pictures if possible, and gathering contact information from witnesses will also support your account of events.

Once immediate needs are addressed, it's wise to reach out to a Columbia construction accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal options available. Experienced legal professionals can help clarify the complexities of workers' compensation claims and determine whether additional legal action is warranted. Acting promptly can help secure necessary financial resources for medical treatments and lost income, while ensuring your legal rights are upheld throughout the process.

How Can a Columbia Construction Accident Lawyer Help Me?

A Columbia construction accident lawyer can play a vital role in helping you navigate the complexities following a worksite injury. They can offer legal counsel on how to approach your workers' compensation claim, ensuring that all necessary documentation is complete and submitted correctly, thus minimizing the risk of denial or delay in receiving benefits. A knowledgeable lawyer can also evaluate the potential for personal injury claims against third parties, such as equipment manufacturers or contractors whose actions contributed to the accident.

Moreover, legal representation can greatly assist in negotiations with insurance companies, advocating for fair compensation that properly reflects the impact of your injuries on your life. By providing persistent representation and strategic legal insights, a construction accident lawyer can enhance your chance of receiving an equitable settlement or court award, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

What Types of Compensation Am I Entitled to After a Construction Accident?

If you suffer injuries in a construction accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. Workers' compensation typically covers medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages during recovery. This system is designed to provide timely financial assistance without the need for lengthy litigation, although it does not include compensation for pain and suffering.

However, if a third party's negligence contributed to your accident, you may pursue additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. Unlike workers' compensation, this can include damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and potentially punitive damages if egregious negligence is proven. Consulting with a legal professional can clarify the compensation pathways available to you and help maximize the financial support you receive after a construction accident.

What Are the Warning Signs of an Unsafe Construction Site?

Recognizing warning signs of an unsafe construction site can prevent accidents and injuries. Indicators include cluttered walkways, improper storage of materials and equipment, inadequate lighting, and the absence of clearly marked safety zones or barriers. Additionally, sites where personal protective equipment (PPE) is not enforced, or where workers are poorly trained, present heightened risks.

Regular safety briefings and the presence of a competent site safety officer are telltale signs of a well-managed job site. If these elements are lacking, employees should address these concerns with their supervisor or report them to the company's safety officer. By being informed and proactive, workers can advocate for safer work environments and reduce the likelihood of accidents occurring.