Construction Accident Lawyers in Atlanta
If You Were Injured on a Construction Site in Georgia, Our Attorneys Can Help You Get Full Compensation
At Gary Martin Hays & Associates, we understand how to fight insurance companies who try to take advantage of injured construction workers. If you have questions, our Georgia construction site injury lawyers are ready to answer them — and we're fully ready to take aggressive action on your behalf.
Remember, you don't pay us unless you win. Find out how an experienced Atlanta construction accident lawyer can help you. Call 1-800-898-HAYS today. You can also contact us online.
Construction accidents in Atlanta and throughout Georgia often involve serious injury, such as neck and back injuries, burn injuries, brain injuries, or work machine injuries. In some cases, a power tool defect may be the root cause of an injury, or negligent behavior on the part of another contractor, which may entitle you to third-party claims above and beyond workers' compensation. Our Atlanta construction accident attorneys help clients sort out the details to get them maximum compensation from all sources.
“They were professional and did everything they said they would. Even went as far to check on me to make sure everything was ok. There's a lot of lawyers out there, but none like Gary Martin Hays & Associates.” — Jon R.G., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQs About Construction Accidents in Georgia
- What are the most common types of construction accidents in Georgia?
- What are the leading causes of construction accidents?
- What industries in Georgia see the most construction-related injuries?
- What are the top construction accident injuries?
- Who can be held liable for a construction accident in Georgia?
- What should I do if I’ve been injured in a construction accident?
- How does Georgia workers’ compensation work for construction accidents?
- What if my employer doesn’t carry workers’ compensation insurance?
- Are independent contractors covered under Georgia workers’ compensation laws?
- What if I am partially at fault for my construction accident?
- Can I file a lawsuit if I am injured in a construction accident in Georgia?
- How do insurance companies try to deny construction accident claims?
- What are the time limits for filing a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia?
- What are the unique challenges of pursuing compensation for construction accidents?
- What should I do if I lost a family member in a fatal construction accident in Georgia?
- How can a Georgia workers’ compensation lawyer help after a construction accident?
What are the most common types of construction accidents in Georgia?
Construction sites in Georgia, particularly in fast-growing cities like Atlanta, are often bustling with activity, which increases the likelihood of accidents. Knowing the common types of construction accidents can help workers understand the risks and take precautions:
- Falls from Heights: Accidents involving ladders, scaffolding, or roofs are among the leading causes of construction injuries.
- Struck by Falling Objects: Tools, debris, or materials falling from heights can cause serious injuries.
- Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents: Workers can be crushed between equipment, walls, or materials.
- Electrocutions: Contact with exposed wiring, power lines, or faulty equipment often leads to severe injuries.
- Machinery Accidents: Injuries caused by malfunctioning or improperly used heavy machinery, such as forklifts or cranes.
Understanding these common accidents emphasizes the importance of safety measures and prompt legal action when injuries occur. A lawyer can guide you through your options to ensure proper compensation.
What are the leading causes of construction accidents?
There are many ways for construction workers to get injured on the job, but some of the leading causes of construction accidents include:
- Inadequate training
- Lack of appropriate safety protocols and procedures
- Lack of appropriate equipment
- Falls from height (falling off a ladder, scaffolding, rooftop)
- Getting hit by a falling object
- Slip and fall accidents (tripping over debris or other construction materials)
- Crane accidents
- Hoist accidents
- Harness accidents
- Welding accidents
- Trench accidents
- Fires
- Explosions
- Inappropriate use of tools, heavy equipment, or machinery
- Defective equipment
- An accident caused by a third party due to negligence
- Getting hit by a car
- Exposure to hazardous materials or toxic substances
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, it can sometimes be tough to get the compensation you’re entitled to, whether it’s by filing a workers’ compensation claim or a claim against a third party responsible for causing your injuries.
At Gary Martin Hays & Associates, our Atlanta construction accident attorneys have the knowledge and experience to handle every aspect of your claim and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
What industries in Georgia see the most construction-related injuries?
Georgia’s economy relies heavily on industries that involve high-risk construction work. Understanding these industries highlights the need for proper safety measures and legal support after an injury.
- Residential Construction: Atlanta’s growing housing demand leads to numerous residential construction projects with potential hazards.
- Commercial Development: Office buildings, shopping centers, and industrial warehouses are common in Georgia’s urban areas.
- Infrastructure Projects: Roads, bridges, and highway expansions are significant sources of construction-related injuries.
- Utility Installation: Work involving electrical lines, gas pipelines, and water systems is inherently risky.
- Manufacturing Facilities: Georgia’s industrial growth often requires construction work in high-risk environments.
Workers in these industries face unique challenges when pursuing compensation for injuries. Consulting an experienced lawyer ensures you don’t navigate these complexities alone.
What are the top construction accident injuries?
Construction workers often work high above the ground on ladders, scaffolding, and rooftops, which means injuries from falls are among the most common sustained by construction workers. Other common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (often caused by falling debris or tools)
- Concussions (typically due to a slip and fall accident or fall from height)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Injuries from getting crushed by heavy equipment, such as forklifts
- Electrocution injuries
- Burn injuries, including chemical burns
- Hearing loss/tinnitus
- Eye injuries/vision loss
If you were injured in a construction accident, it’s important to remember that you have rights. Whether you need help with a workers’ compensation claim or you want to pursue legal action against a third party to recover compensation for your damages, an Atlanta construction accident lawyer from our law firm can help.
If you are the family member of someone who died in a construction accident, our legal team can also help you file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Who can be held liable for a construction accident in Georgia?
In most cases, you should be able to file a workers’ compensation claim through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance if you were injured in a construction accident while on the job.
In other cases, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party whose negligence resulted in you getting injured in an accident. Those that can possibly be held liable for construction accident injuries include:
- The owner of the construction site
- General contractors, sub-contractors, and prime contractors
- Engineers
- Architects
- Manufacturers
- Your employer (if you were intentionally injured by your employer)
Cases involving construction accidents are often complex because there are many different parties that may be held responsible for your injuries. That’s why you should call our law firm to speak with an experienced Atlanta construction accident lawyer as soon as possible. We can review the details of your case, explain your options, and help you figure out the best way to move forward.
What should I do if I’ve been injured in a construction accident?
If you were involved in a construction accident, the first thing you should do is seek immediate medical attention. Even if you don’t feel injured, you should still get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. You may have been seriously injured and not realize it, as some injuries have delayed-onset symptoms and others can be masked by adrenaline. After that, you should:
- Report the accident and injury to your employer, supervisor, or manager right away.
- See if anyone witnessed your accident. If so, get their name and contact information.
- Document any visible injuries with photographs and take pictures of the accident scene, including any equipment, tools, or machinery involved in the accident.
- Call an experienced construction accident lawyer to protect your rights and understand your legal options.
Whether you need help getting workers’ compensation or you want to file a lawsuit against a third party responsible for causing your injuries, an Atlanta construction accident attorney from our law firm can fight to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
How does Georgia workers’ compensation work for construction accidents?
Georgia’s workers’ compensation system provides benefits to employees injured on the job, including construction workers. These benefits typically cover medical expenses, partial wage replacement, and rehabilitation costs. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you can receive benefits regardless of who caused the accident. However, navigating the claims process can be challenging, and an experienced lawyer can help ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
What if my employer doesn’t carry workers’ compensation insurance?
Employers in Georgia with three or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer fails to comply, you may be able to file a direct lawsuit against them for negligence or seek compensation through Georgia’s Uninsured Employers Fund. These situations can be legally complex, so consulting a lawyer is critical to protect your rights and pursue all available options.
Are independent contractors covered under Georgia workers’ compensation laws?
Independent contractors are generally not covered under Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws. However, some employers misclassify employees as contractors to avoid providing benefits. If this applies to your situation, a lawyer can help determine whether you were misclassified and fight for the benefits you deserve.
What if I am partially at fault for my construction accident?
In Georgia, workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, so your level of fault doesn’t affect your ability to receive benefits. However, if you’re pursuing a third-party claim against someone other than your employer, Georgia’s comparative fault laws may reduce your compensation based on your percentage of fault. An experienced lawyer can help build a strong case to minimize your share of fault and maximize your recovery.
Can I file a lawsuit if I am injured in a construction accident in Georgia?
Workers’ compensation typically prevents employees from suing their employers for workplace injuries. However, you can file a lawsuit against third parties whose negligence contributed to your accident, such as subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. A lawyer can investigate your case to identify liable parties and help you pursue additional compensation beyond workers’ comp benefits.
How do insurance companies try to deny construction accident claims?
Insurance companies often prioritize their bottom line over providing fair compensation to injured workers. Understanding their tactics can help you protect your rights.
- Disputing Fault: Claiming you were responsible for the accident.
- Downplaying Injuries: Suggesting your injuries are less severe than reported.
- Delaying Claims: Using unnecessary delays to pressure you into accepting a low settlement.
- Misinterpreting Policies: Denying coverage based on vague or misapplied policy terms.
- Requesting Excessive Documentation: Creating unnecessary hurdles to frustrate claimants.
Insurance companies have teams of professionals working against your best interests. Partnering with a lawyer ensures you have someone fighting for your rightful compensation.
What are the time limits for filing a workers’ compensation claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, injured workers generally have 30 days to report the accident to their employer and one year to file a workers’ compensation claim. Missing these deadlines could result in losing your right to benefits. To avoid complications and ensure your claim is filed correctly, consider consulting a lawyer as soon as possible.
What are the unique challenges of pursuing compensation for construction accidents?
Construction accident claims come with specific obstacles that can make the process daunting without legal help.
- Identifying Liable Parties: Determining fault can be complex when multiple contractors and subcontractors are involved.
- Navigating Workers’ Compensation: Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws may limit your ability to file additional claims.
- Collecting Evidence: Critical evidence can be lost or altered quickly at a busy construction site.
- Dealing With Multiple Insurance Companies: Coordinating between workers’ compensation and liability insurance can be confusing.
- Challenging Denied Claims: Employers and insurers may push back to avoid payouts.
Each of these challenges requires experience and legal knowledge to overcome. Consulting a lawyer ensures your claim is handled effectively while you focus on healing.
What should I do if I lost a family member in a fatal construction accident in Georgia?
Losing a loved one in a construction accident is devastating, and Georgia law allows surviving family members to seek death benefits through workers’ compensation. These benefits may include compensation for lost income, funeral expenses, and other financial support. A compassionate lawyer can guide you through this emotionally and legally challenging process, ensuring you secure the justice and compensation your family deserves.
How can a Georgia workers’ compensation lawyer help after a construction accident?
A workers’ compensation lawyer can provide essential support at every stage of your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Filing Claims: Assisting with timely and accurate filing to avoid delays or denials.
- Investigating Accidents: Gathering evidence to strengthen your claim and identify additional liable parties.
- Negotiating Settlements: Handling discussions with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation.
- Pursuing Third-Party Claims: Filing lawsuits against negligent parties not covered by workers’ compensation.
- Providing Legal Representation: Advocating for you in hearings or court proceedings if necessary.
A skilled lawyer can make the entire process smoother, allowing you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities. Don’t navigate this alone when expert help is available.
Let an Atlanta Construction Accident Lawyer Handle Your Claim
Construction work typically makes the top 10 list of the most dangerous jobs. That's because workers typically use heavy equipment or do their jobs from extreme heights. The most common accidents involve falls from high above the ground (such as an injury to a roofer or someone working on scaffolding); being hit by an object or a tool; and electrocution.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your injury, you may have grounds for both a workers' compensation claim against your employer and a personal injury claim against a third party, such as a contractor. That means it may be possible to recover compensation for losses that are not covered by workers' compensation, such as pain and suffering.
The insurance companies that represent the construction trade have highly trained teams working to keep expenses related to construction accident injury claims to an absolute minimum. Don't go it alone if you are seeking compensation. Call us today.
An Experienced, Aggressive Lawyer for Construction Accidents — We're Ready to Help
At Gary Martin Hays & Associates, we recognize how difficult it can be to recover from an injury sustained on a construction site. Your first step to simplify the process is to contact us today. From the insurance forms to the medical bills and other paperwork, our experienced staff can help you sort through the red tape. Call 1-800-898-HAYS. There is no fee for your initial consultation. Now is the time to act.
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