Construction sites have safety regulations to protect workers and others nearby, but accidents can still happen. If you were injured on a construction site due to unsafe conditions, here’s some advice from construction injury lawyers in Houston, TX, on your legal options.
What Are My Legal Options If I Was Injured Due to Unsafe Conditions at a Construction Site? Advice from Construction Injury Lawyers in Houston, TX
Workers’ Compensation Claims
Most employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. This has benefits that cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and disability benefits if your injury prevents you from returning to work.
Workers’ compensation is generally available regardless of who was at fault for the accident, so it can be a faster option for compensation compared to other legal actions. Workers’ compensation, however, does not provide compensation for non-economic damages like pain and suffering and may not be available to independent contractors or subcontractors.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
This may be an option if your injury was due to unsafe conditions because of negligence. A personal injury lawsuit requires proving that your injury was caused by the negligence of another party, such as the property owner, general contractor, subcontractors, or equipment manufacturers.
For example, if unsafe scaffolding or a poorly maintained piece of equipment led to your injury, you may have grounds to file a claim against the responsible parties. Personal injury claims, however, require clear evidence to demonstrate fault. Click here to find out more.
Product Liability Claims for Defective Equipment
Construction equipment must meet certain safety standards, and if any equipment is defective due to a design flaw, manufacturing error, or inadequate warning labels, the manufacturer or distributor may be held liable if the defect directly caused your injury. In product liability claims, you do not have to prove negligence but only must show that the equipment was defective and that this defect caused your injury.
Third-Party Liability Claims
In some cases, parties other than your employer or co-workers may have contributed to unsafe conditions on a construction site. A third-party liability claim allows you to seek compensation from an external party. Examples include a contractor who failed to maintain safe equipment, a vendor who delivered faulty materials, or a property owner who neglected necessary safety precautions. There must be clear proof that the third party acted negligently and that this negligence directly led to your injuries.
Premises Liability Claims
You may have grounds for a premises liability claim if you were injured on a construction site as a bystander or visitor due to unsafe conditions, such as unmarked hazards or exposed wiring. Property owners are legally obligated to maintain a safe environment, especially if they are aware that people other than workers may enter the area.
If you’ve been injured on a construction site due to unsafe conditions, consult with an attorney familiar with construction site accidents. They can help you understand your rights and advise you on the best strategy to protect your financial and personal well-being.
