NJ Construction Accident Lawyers Fight for Full Compensation

Construction accident attorneys in Ridgewood serving Northern New Jersey

Construction is a vital segment of the New Jersey economy, and experts anticipate robust activity over the next few years due to government grants for repair and rebuilding of highway, bridge and other infrastructure. In addition, demand will continue for new schools, hospitals and housing facilities. All of this activity benefits the Garden State and its workers but it also increases the likelihood of construction site injuries. If you’ve been hurt at a worksite in the Bergen, Passaic, Essex or Hudson County areas, Seigel Law can help. Since 1976, we have represented victims of construction accidents. Our attorneys have the knowledge, skill and determination to seek the full damage award your case deserves.

Common causes of construction accidents

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction accidents accounted for 20 percent of all workplace fatalities in 2019, with a total of 1,061 deaths. More than 200,000 nonfatal serious injuries occurred that same year. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cites four hazards that put workers at the greatest risk:

  • Falling — A sudden fall onto a hard surface, especially from a height, can be devastating. While preventing falls should be a high-priority concern for project managers, OSHA finds the greatest number of safety violations consist of site conditions likely to result in falls, such as cluttered worksites and poorly secured ladders and scaffolds.
  • Being struck by an object — Falling objects, such as dropped tools or materials, can cause severe injury and death, even when a victim is wearing a hard hat.
  • Electrocution — Construction crews use all sorts of improvised power sources that might not be safely set up. Locating power sources where they are likely to get wet increases the risk of fatal shock.
  • Getting caught in between — Crushing injuries can occur when workers are caught in the workings of machinery, between moving objects or within a collapsing trench.

Dubbed “The Fatal Four,” these are the types of injuries every worker must zealously guard against.

Steps to take after a construction site injury

Workers who are injured at a construction site should immediately do the following:

  • Seek medical treatment — A doctor’s immediate diagnosis and care can prevent your injury from becoming worse.
  • Write a detailed report of the incident — Before you forget anything, write down exactly what happened.
  • Submit a workers’ compensation claim — Workers’ compensation entitles you to free medical coverage, but the law requires you to submit a claim within a reasonable time.
  • Speak to a construction accident attorney —Get an expert opinion about your right to recover the costs of your injury, both through from workers’ compensation and through a possible lawsuit for damages.

In some cases, you might not realize you’re injured until a few days later. Don’t let that initial delay discourage you. Begin the process as soon as you know you’re hurt.

Why you need a lawyer for your construction site accident

In many cases, workers’ compensation is the only remedy. However, there are circumstances under which an injured worker can sue a third party or even an employer for damages. A personal injury lawsuit would allow you to recover your lost wages and medical costs as well as compensation for pain and suffering, which can be substantial, especially in the event of a disabling injury. Seigel Law is a premier personal injury law firm serving people who have been injured in construction site accidents, either as workers or bystanders. We can help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Contact a skillful North Jersey attorney for a free construction accident consultation

Located in Ridgewood, Seigel Law represents victims of construction accidents throughout North Jersey, including Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties. Please call 201-444-4000 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. If you are unable to travel, we can meet in your home or hospital room.