Construction Accidents in Washington D.C.

Being that it is the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. is famous for its historic buildings scattered throughout the city. These landmarks required great detail and attention from construction workers throughout the years to ensure they were perfect. The job of a construction worker often puts these individuals in dangerous situations. Employees in this line of work handle risky tools and put themselves potentially hazardous conditions. This increases their chances of becoming injured on the job more than other professions. If a construction worker is injured while working, they may be eligible to receive benefits under workers’ compensation laws. It is crucial to contact an attorney if you have been injured on the job in a construction incident.

Types of Accidents

Construction workers are often exposed to dangerous conditions on work sites. These conditions can seriously injure an individual in the event that something goes wrong on the job. It is because of this that construction jobs are considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Employees trust the tools and equipment they are given are safe and will not cause harm to them. Many construction companies take the right precautions to ensure their employees are safe at work. Even still, accidents sometimes happen. Some common accidents that can happen on the job include:

  • Dangerous falls
  • Nail gun accidents
  • Ladder accidents
  • Scaffolding accidents
  • Falling debris
  • Electrocutions
  • Explosions
  • Collapsing buildings
  • Unsafe property conditions
  • Supervisor negligence

Workers’ Compensation

If a construction worker is injured on the job, they may be able to receive financial compensation. Workers’ compensation is insurance that many employers are required to have for their employees in the event of injuries at work. This compensation can help to cover the injured’s medical bills and lost wages as a result of the accident. If an employee wants to receive workers’ compensation, they must give their employer notice within 30 days of when the accident occurred. In addition to this, the employee has 1 year from the date of the accident to file a claim. If they fail to do so within the allotted limit, the individual may lose the chance to collect these benefits. If they accept these benefits, it is important to understand that the individual is not able to pursue legal action against their employer for their injuries.

Third Party Lawsuits

While a construction worker cannot take legal action against their employer if they receive this compensation, they may be able to do so against a third party. If a third party is responsible for an individual’s injury, that individual may hold the party responsible while still receiving compensation. In order to hold this third party responsible, the employee is required to show the party knew about, or should have known about, the hazardous condition that caused their injury. This requires the employee to collect evidence that proves so.

Contact our Firm

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident and wishes to seek legal counsel, contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC.today.

The experienced personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys at Trombly & Singer, PLLC are prepared to represent clients facing legal matters after being injured due to another person’s negligence. If you require strong legal representation in Washington D.C. or Maryland, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.