It’s no secret that construction is a dangerous industry. Nearly 10 percent of construction workers suffer an injury every year, many of whom cannot earn an income for weeks of even months while they recover. Although employers in New York are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, many of these claims are undervalued or denied. In some cases, a third party is liable for the injured worker’s medical bills and other damages, which can further complicate the claims process.
If you were injured while working on a construction site, there are several key steps that you must take to give your claim the best chance of success. We’ll discuss a few of those steps in this blog.
If your employer is disputing your claim or if you have questions about your case, turn to Charnas Law Firm for legal guidance. Scott Charnas is a construction accident lawyer in New York City who is well-versed in the laws and procedures that govern workers’ compensation claims. He can answer your questions, help you gather the evidence needed to prove your claim, and ensure you are treated fairly. Call 212-980-6800 for a free case review.
Read on to learn a few steps you should take after sustaining an injury on a construction site:
1. Seek Medical Treatment
Your top priority after any injury is to seek medical treatment. Failing to undergo a medical evaluation not only could cause your injuries to worsen but may also lead to a claim dispute.
2. Report the Accident
Notify your employer or supervisor about your injury and how it occurred. You must submit this notification in writing within 30 days of the accident. You should record everything that happened as soon as possible so you do not overlook any important details.
3. Record Witnesses’ Contact Details
Eyewitness testimony can be valuable for proving how an accident occurred and for tying your injuries to the incident. Write down their phone numbers, names, and addresses.
4. Contact a Construction Accident Attorney
If your injury is minor and you do not expect your employer to dispute the claim, you might be able to handle the proceedings without the help of an attorney. But if your injury is severe or if you think a dispute is likely, you should schedule a consultation with a construction accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Attorney Scott Charnas can handle the logistics of your claim such as filing the necessary paperwork, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, calculating your damages, and arranging expert witness testimony. He can also help you avoid crucial mistakes that would jeopardize your claim such as making misguided statements during a recorded conversation with the insurance company or accepting a settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries.
Scott can also investigate your accident to determine if a third party, such as an equipment manufacturer or subcontractor, might be liable for your damages. If so, you can bring a claim against that party for additional compensation.
Call 212-980-6800 Today to Speak with a Construction Accident Lawyer in New York City
If you or a member of your family was severely injured or died while working on a construction site, turn to Charnas Law Firm to discuss your case. Call 212-980-6800 or email us at scharnas@charnaslawfirm.com to set up a free consultation.