Construction Accidents

Virginia Construction Accident Attorneys

Construction Accidents & Workers’ Compensation

At Reinhardt | Harper | Davis, we believe that no one should have to worry about being involved in a serious accident or sustaining a life-changing injury on the job. Unfortunately, thousands of workers are injured each year—and construction workers are most at risk.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), about one in five, or 20 percent, of all private industry worker deaths in 2019 occurred in the construction industry. This follows past data trends, with construction continuously remaining in the top most-dangerous industries for workers year after year.

If you or someone you love was involved in a construction accident in Virginia, you could be entitled to compensation through workers’ compensation, a third-party personal injury claim, or both. Our attorneys at Reinhardt | Harper | Davis can review the details of your case and provide the information you need to move forward during a free, no-obligation consultation.

Call (804) 294-2966 or contact us online today to learn more.

What Are Common Types of Construction Accidents?

According to OSHA, some of the most commonly cited standard violations within the construction industry include improper fall protection, unsafe scaffolding, defective ladders, and poor communication.

In construction, these and other safety standard violations can result in serious accidents, including but not limited to:

  • Falls from heights
  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Trench cave-ins
  • Structure and ground collapses
  • Power tool accidents
  • Construction vehicle accidents
  • Explosions and fires
  • Electrocution
  • Being struck by falling debris
  • Getting trapped between equipment/materials
  • Machine entanglement
  • Machinery accidents
  • Crane accidents
  • Forklift accidents
  • Exposure to harmful or toxic substances

Often, victims of these and other common construction accidents sustain severe or even life-threatening injuries. At Reinhardt | Harper | Davis, our Virginia construction accident attorneys understand the immense impact these incidents have on the lives of victims and their loved ones. Because of this, we offer highly personalized and compassionate legal counsel as we aggressively seek the maximum compensation our clients are owed.

What Construction Accident-Related Injuries Happen Often?

Due to their typical severity, it’s not surprising that construction accidents also tend to lead to equally serious injuries. Sadly, many construction accidents are fatal.

Some of the most common types of injuries associated with construction accidents and construction-related work include:

  • Head and brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
  • Slipped or ruptured discs
  • Back injuries, including chronic back pain
  • Neck and shoulder injuries
  • Overuse and overexertion
  • Repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel
  • Serious burn injuries
  • Accidental amputation/loss of limb
  • Face and eye injuries
  • Hearing loss or damage
  • Electric shock
  • Illnesses related to toxic exposure, such as mesothelioma
  • Suffocation
  • Respiratory illness

Such catastrophic injuries often require extensive medical treatment, as well as ongoing and even lifelong care. Victims may be unable to return to work for weeks, months, or years, and some will never be able to work again due to their injuries.

As a result, construction accident victims (and their families) often suffer significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. At Reinhardt | Harper | Davis, it is our goal to help ensure that you are fairly compensated for these hardships, whether through the Virginia workers’ compensation system, by filing a lawsuit against a negligent third party, or both.

What Compensation Is Available for Injured Construction Workers?

In Virginia, construction workers who sustain on-the-job injuries or work-related medical conditions may be entitled to workers’ compensation. In general, any employer in Virginia with more than two employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance. It does not matter whether the workers are part-time or full-time workers. However, independent contractors, including some independently employed construction workers and subcontractors, are not considered “employees” and are, therefore, not entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.

For those covered by workers’ compensation, certain monetary benefits are available. These include:

  • Medical benefits
  • Temporary total disability
  • Temporary partial disability
  • Permanent partial disability
  • Permanent total disability

Workers’ compensation also provides death benefits to eligible surviving family members when a covered employee is involved in a fatal workplace accident or dies due to a work-related injury, illness, or medical condition.

For those not covered by workers’ compensation, it may be possible to file a third-party personal injury claim. To do so, you will need to prove that another person or party, such as a product manufacturer, is liable for your injuries and/or damages. In some cases, injured construction workers may be entitled to both workers’ compensation benefits and third-party personal injury damages.

Depending on the details of your case, a personal injury claim may allow you to recover compensation for the following damages:

  • Medical expenses
  • Future medical care costs
  • Lost income, wages, and benefits
  • Loss of future earnings
  • Lost earning ability
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Disfigurement

How Can a Virginia Construction Accident Attorney Help Injured Workers?

If you have been injured in a construction accident, seeking the assistance of a skilled construction accident attorney in Virginia can make a significant difference in your case. These attorneys specialize in providing comprehensive legal support to injured workers, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Here’s how a construction accident attorney can help:

  • Legal Guidance: A construction accident attorney will provide expert advice on workers’ compensation benefits, guiding you through the process of filing a claim and ensuring you meet all necessary requirements.
  • Third-Party Liability Claims: In addition to workers’ compensation, an attorney can help you pursue third-party liability claims against parties other than your employer who may be responsible for your injuries, such as contractors, subcontractors, or equipment manufacturers.
  • Case Evaluation: A construction accident lawyer will thoroughly assess your case, determining if there are grounds for legal action against your employer or any other parties involved. They will evaluate the evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong case on your behalf.
  • Evidence Collection: Your attorney will gather vital evidence to support your claim, including accident scene investigations, expert testimonies, and any documentation relevant to your case. This comprehensive approach strengthens your position and increases the chances of a successful claim.
  • Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, but an experienced attorney will handle all negotiations on your behalf. They will fight for fair and just compensation, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum benefits available to you.
  • Appeals and Hearings: If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, an attorney can assist you in filing appeals and representing you at hearings to present your case and advocate for your rights.
  • Seeking Financial Damages: A construction accident attorney will pursue financial damages to cover your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. They will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve, providing you with the necessary resources to aid in your recovery.

By enlisting the services of a skilled construction accident attorney, you can navigate the complex legal landscape, protect your rights, and improve your chances of a successful claim. If you have been injured in a construction accident in Richmond, VA, contact a construction accident attorney today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Experience You Can Rely on After a Virginia Construction Accident

Our Virginia construction accident attorneys have extensive experience handling all types of construction accident and injury cases. We can review the details of your situation and help you understand your legal options. Our team leaves no stone unturned in our pursuit of maximum compensation for our clients.

With over 100 years of combined experience, our team has what it takes to effectively advocate for you. If you were injured or if your loved one tragically died due to a construction accident or construction-related injury, reach out to Reinhardt | Harper | Davis today to learn how we can help you fight for the justice you deserve.

Call us today at (804) 294-2966 or submit an online contact form to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Hablamos español

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