Serious and often deadly injuries occur on construction sites every day. Heavy equipment and other hazards make this work environment among the most dangerous in the United States. If you or a loved one is injured, speak to a construction accident lawyer at Smith & Baltaxe, LLP in San Francisco, CA, to ensure your workers' compensation claim results in maximum benefits. The outcome of a workers' compensation claim depends upon how effectively your true losses are demonstrated. Schedule your free consultation today by contacting us online or calling (415) 292-7800.
A High-risk Workplace
When work injury and fatality statistics are released, the construction industry consistently ranks high. Roofing is considered one of the five most perilous occupations in the country. Working on elevated job platforms and around heavy equipment, sharp tools, toxic materials, and electricity, construction workers are regularly exposed to very dangerous conditions.
Our attorneys can handle your claim from the beginning, or step in to represent you in an appeal.
Compared to many other occupations, construction accidents are more likely to prove fatal. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry ranks fourth in fatal workplace injuries. Statistics from 2015 cited 924 fatal construction site injuries, the highest number since 2008.
The most common construction injuries occur due to slip and falls, falls from heights, electrical accidents, and injuries from contact with dangerous machinery, including transportation vehicles. Injuries in these cases tend to be among the most catastrophic, including loss of limbs, spinal cord injuries, burns, and traumatic brain injuries. All types of serious back and neck injuries are common.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
Through workers’ compensation, injured construction workers can receive full coverage for injury-related medical care expenses. Depending upon your degree of injury, many other potential benefits are also available to you, including:
- Partial payment of lost wages for a period of temporary disability
- Coverage for job retraining if you are unable to return to your customary work
- Permanent disability payments or a lump sum award for partial or total disability
- A death benefit payment for family members
There are important steps to take to ensure qualification for benefits, and it is not uncommon for workers to make mistakes during this process. The injury must be reported to the employer within 30 days and fully documented by an insurer-approved medical doctor.
Denials and Complications
Sometimes, employers and insurance companies attempt to deny a claim or minimize benefit payouts. To ensure your best outcome, it is wise to seek counsel from an experienced attorney. Bernhard Baltaxe and Byron Smith are dedicated exclusively to helping injured workers collect maximum workers' compensation benefits.
Our attorneys can handle your claim from the beginning or step in to represent you in an appeal. Our aggressive representation can maximize your workers' compensation benefits. Construction accidents can often be very complex. In some cases, liability is multifaceted, and may involve an outside party such as a negligent driver or the manufacturer of defective equipment. When appropriate, our attorneys can recruit a trusted personal injury attorney to handle any civil claims.
Contact Our Firm
Smith & Baltaxe handles cases on a contingency basis, so clients need not worry about legal fees until the case is settled. Our attorneys work to ease your stressful situation and provide substantial help. When necessary, we can meet you at the hospital or in your home. Please contact us today to speak to a lawyer or schedule a free consultation.
