Passaic County Construction Accident Lawyer

Those who work in construction are among the hardest-working members of society. Unfortunately, the nature of the job often puts workers in dangerous situations that can result in serious accidents and injuries. If you are a construction worker who was recently injured on the job, you may feel unsure of what to do next and where to turn. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you’re in the right place. Contact a seasoned Passaic County construction accident lawyer from the Law Offices of August R. Soltis for a free initial consultation today.

Common Causes & Types of Construction Accidents

Construction sites are inherently hazardous, with many potential risks that can lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common causes and types of construction accidents include the following:

• Falls from Heights: Whether from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or elevated surfaces, falls are one of the leading causes of severe injuries and fatalities on construction sites.
• Slip & Trip Accidents: Uneven surfaces, debris, spilled liquids, or improperly placed tools can all lead to dangerous slips, trips, and falls.
• Electrocutions: Exposed wiring, overhead power lines, faulty equipment, and unsafe electrical work can put workers at risk of electric shocks or burns.
• Struck-By Accidents: Workers may be struck by falling objects, swinging equipment, or moving vehicles, leading to serious injuries.
• Caught-In/Between Accidents: These occur when a worker is caught in or between heavy machinery, collapsing structures, or trenches, often resulting in crushing injuries.
• Scaffolding & Ladder Accidents: Unsafe or improperly assembled scaffolding and defective ladders can cause devastating falls and injuries.
• Machinery & Equipment Accidents: Malfunctioning, defective, or improperly used construction equipment can lead to severe injuries, including amputations and crushing incidents.
• Explosions & Fires: Gas leaks, chemical spills, and exposed electrical systems can lead to fires or explosions, causing burns and other catastrophic injuries.
• Trench Collapses: Workers inside or near an improperly secured trench may be buried under tons of soil and debris if a collapse occurs.
• Toxic Exposure: Construction workers often work with hazardous chemicals, asbestos, and other toxic materials, leading to long-term health conditions.
• Repetitive Stress Injuries: Continuous heavy lifting, bending, or operating machinery can lead to long-term musculoskeletal injuries and chronic pain.

Steps to Take After a Construction Accident

If you have been injured in a construction accident, taking the right steps immediately can protect your rights and improve your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

• Report the Accident Immediately: Notify your employer, supervisor, or site manager as soon as possible. Failing to report the incident in a timely manner could jeopardize your ability to file for workers’ compensation benefits.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor right away. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and medical documentation is crucial for your claim.
• Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions that contributed to the accident. If there were witnesses, collect their contact information.
• File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: In New Jersey, most injured construction workers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which cover medical expenses and lost wages. You must file your claim with the Division of Workers’ Compensation promptly to ensure eligibility.
• Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Guidance: Your employer or their insurance company may ask you to sign statements or accept a quick settlement. Speak with an attorney before agreeing to anything, as you could be signing away your right to full compensation.
• Consult a Construction Accident Lawyer: Whether your injury qualifies for workers’ compensation or you have a potential third-party claim, a Passaic County personal injury attorney can help maximize your compensation and navigate the legal process on your behalf.

Workers’ Compensation Vs. Third-Party Claims

When a construction worker is injured on the job in New Jersey, they may have multiple avenues for seeking compensation. Understanding the difference between workers’ compensation and third-party claims is critical to ensuring you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.

Workers’ Compensation in New Jersey

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system designed to provide benefits to employees injured in the course of their employment, regardless of who was at fault. These benefits typically include:

• Medical treatment for work-related injuries
• Wage replacement for temporary or permanent disability
• Compensation for necessary rehabilitation services

However, workers’ compensation does not cover pain and suffering, and benefits may not fully compensate for all financial losses. Additionally, employees cannot sue their employers for negligence under this system.

Third-Party Claims

In some cases, a construction worker may have a valid third-party claim against someone other than their employer. These claims arise when a third party’s negligence contributes to an accident, such as:

• Property Owners: If a hazardous condition on the property caused the accident
• General Contractors or Subcontractors: If a separate entity was responsible for unsafe working conditions
• Equipment Manufacturers: If defective machinery, tools, or safety equipment caused the injury
• Drivers: If the worker was injured in a vehicle accident involving a negligent third party

Unlike workers’ compensation, a third-party claim allows an injured worker to recover additional damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and full lost wages. Pursuing both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party lawsuit can significantly increase an injured worker’s financial recovery.

Contact a New Jersey Construction Accident Lawyer

After an on-the-job injury, you shouldn’t have to fight the uphill battle for compensation alone. The Law Offices of August R. Soltis stands ready to fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled. Contact a construction accident lawyer from our legal team for a free case evaluation today.