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If you were injured while performing your work duties at a construction site in Philadelphia, the surrounding counties, or New Jersey, you have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits. However, the success of your claim depends on the steps you take right after the incident.

Navigating construction workplace injury cases isn’t easy. Many workers mistakenly believe that the maximum payout is automatic. In reality, without taking a smart legal approach to the situation, you may face a denial. Understanding how to act in this situation can help you receive the money you deserve.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Construction Site Injury

Addressing immediate concerns and systematically documenting the event are pivotal steps in safeguarding one’s well-being and supporting any subsequent claims after a workplace injury.

• Ensure Your Safety and Get a Professional Medical Evaluation

The priority after any injury at work is your health and safety. Construction sites often contain heavy machinery, exposed wiring, and unstable structures. Your condition could worsen if you remain in a dangerous area after the incident. If you can, immediately move to a safe location and seek medical attention.

Use on-site first aid for immediate relief, but do not rely on it as your only form of care. You must speak to a qualified healthcare provider even if your injuries don’t seem serious. You will need complete medical documentation because it serves as evidence in the construction site accident claim.

• Report the Incident to Your Supervisor

After receiving medical attention, inform your supervisor or site manager promptly. Reporting the injury without delay helps ensure the incident is officially recorded and can influence how a workers’ compensation claim proceeds. Include specific details such as the circumstances of the injury, the location, and the type of harm sustained. Accurate documentation allows your employer to begin the claims process and establishes a record supporting follow-up actions.

• Document the Scene and Gather Evidence

If your condition allows, collect as much evidence as possible before the scene changes. Take photographs of your injury, the specific work area, and any equipment involved. Capture potential hazards, such as unsafe working conditions or missing safety barriers.

Try to gather witness statements from coworkers who saw the accident happen. Even a short note from a colleague can strengthen your case. Evidence of poor working conditions or failures in workplace safety may also help prove liability. The more details you preserve, the stronger your case will be.

Workers’ Compensation and Legal Options

Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance covering medical expenses and partial wage loss when an employee is injured. Construction workers in Pennsylvania and New Jersey are generally covered regardless of who caused the accident. This means that benefits should still apply even if a worker made a mistake.

Workers’ comp typically covers hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and some lost wages. Understanding how to claim medical damages after a construction accident is vital because benefits are not automatic.

Exploring Third-Party Claims

Not all accidents fall solely under workers’ compensation. Sometimes, a third party (e.g., an equipment manufacturer or subcontractor) contributes to the accident. For example, the manufacturer assumes responsibility if a defective scaffold collapses.

While workers’ comp pays for medical bills and a portion of wages, third-party claims may provide additional avenues for damage recovery. These claims are separate from workers’ comp and require careful legal evaluation. Knowing the distinction between the two is essential when pursuing construction site accident claims.

Importance of Legal Guidance

Navigating workplace injury laws can be overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the system. Filing forms incorrectly, missing deadlines, or failing to submit evidence can weaken your case. That’s why consulting an experienced attorney is so important.

At Gross & Kenny LLP, we specialize in representing injured construction workers across Philadelphia, the surrounding counties, and New Jersey. Our team understands the complexities of construction workplace injury cases and knows how to achieve the best possible outcome.

Don’t try to navigate this process alone. Contact Gross & Kenny, LLP today for guidance if a job site accident has injured you or a loved one.

Image credit: // Shutterstock // Thanumporn Thongkongkaew