Getting hurt on a construction site is a total nightmare, but it happens more often than people realize. These work zones see their fair share of mishaps and injuries every single year. If you or someone you care about has been injured in a construction accident, it massively helps to know what to do next. Getting a handle on the key steps will help you get the assistance and compensation owed to you.
Before anything else, make sure 911 has been called if medical care is urgently needed. Once that vital step is handled, here are the key things you’ll want to do after an onsite construction site accident attorney.
1. Speak Up about What Exactly Happened
This first move is about getting an official record of what led to the accident. As soon as you safely can, verbally report the whole incident to whoever runs safety protocols onsite. Provide clear details on what caused the accident, who got hurt, eyewitness information if available, and the type and extent of any injuries dealt with.
Get checked out by first responders even for scrapes or minor cuts since some symptoms can take time to arise. You’ll also want medical paperwork to support any claims later on down the road.
2. Document The Evidence
Along with giving a verbal report, take photos and videos capturing the accident scene from all angles if possible. Zoom in on any safety hazards or sketchy equipment that may have sparked the incident.
Also, don’t shy away from photographing visible wounds, breaks, or other trauma on anyone injured. If any fellow construction workers saw what went down, ask them if they’d be willing to provide a statement about the accident while the details remain fresh.
Eyewitness accounts can be make-or-break for proving fault after some time passes. Keep paper trails of all medical and pharmacy charges, too as they come your way.
3. Consult A Construction Site Accident Attorney
Handling a workplace injury claim alone can get tricky if you don’t know the legal nitty gritty. Linking up with a construction accident lawyer provides serious benefits for sorting insurance claims and accurately pinning blame. They know workplace safety codes that apply to your case.
Legal help also gives you way more leverage for securing maximum compensation. Your lawyer will dig into accident causes, build an iron-clad case pinning the blame squarely on guilty parties, and negotiate for higher payouts.
4. Submit The Paperwork
Finally, your construction accident lawyer will walk you through submitting official paperwork tied to the incident. This includes insurance claims, workers compensation requests, and more.
Missing strict deadlines can make you ineligible for payouts later on. A lawyer makes sure all necessary documents are handled completely and promptly. They’ll also have your back during hearings and settlement talks to get you the compensation you deserve.
Wrapping Up
Bouncing back fully after a construction site injury takes patience. But by promptly reporting, documenting evidence, and hiring legal help, injury victims equip themselves to receive maximum support. Leaning on a trustworthy construction site accident attorney means less hassle and more time for healing.