Construction accidents can cause serious, life-changing injuries, leaving victims to face not only physical pain but also financial stress, lost wages, and long recovery times. In these moments, knowing what steps to take can protect both your health and your legal rights.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a construction accident, taking immediate action is critical. Here’s what you should know about protecting yourself, seeking compensation, and working with an experienced construction accident lawyer.
What to Do Immediately After a Construction Accident
Construction sites are dangerous environments, and when an accident happens, your first priority should always be your health and safety. After a construction site accident occurs, taking these important steps can protect you and help build a strong legal claim:
1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries, especially head, neck, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Always seek professional medical care to document your injuries.
2. Report the Accident to Your Supervisor
Notify your supervisor or site manager as soon as possible. This creates an official record of the incident, which will be essential for any future legal or insurance claims. If anyone witnessed the accident, be sure to document their name and contact information. Witnesses are often a key part of construction accident claims, especially when cases move into litigation.
3. Gather Evidence From the Scene
If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions that contributed to the accident. Get contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened.
4. Keep Records of Everything
Save all medical bills, accident reports, and any correspondence with your employer or insurance companies. This documentation can help support your claim.
5. Avoid Posting on Social Media
It’s important to refrain from sharing any details about your accident or injury on social media. Even seemingly harmless posts can be used against you during a legal case and may undermine your credibility.
How to Protect Your Legal Rights After a Construction Accident
Beyond medical care, it’s important to take steps that will protect your legal rights, especially if your accident was caused by unsafe working conditions, negligence, or equipment failure.
Understand Your Legal Options
Florida law allows injured workers to pursue compensation through workers’ compensation claims and, in some cases, personal injury lawsuits. A skilled construction accident attorney can help determine the best path forward based on the details of your case.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Help
Insurance companies may try to contact you early on to ask for a statement or offer a quick settlement. Speaking with an adjuster, or any party involved, without legal guidance could inadvertently jeopardize your claim. You are under no obligation to speak with them directly and have the right to refer all communications to your attorney. This protects your case and ensures nothing you say is used against you later.
Work With a Construction Accident Lawyer
An experienced construction accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Call Ginnis, Krathen & Zelnick for Expert Advice
At Ginnis, Krathen & Zelnick, we have years of experience representing injured workers in construction accident cases. From fall injuries and equipment malfunctions to unsafe work environments, our team knows how to fight for the compensation you deserve.
We understand how stressful and overwhelming life after a construction accident can be. That’s why we work closely with our clients, helping them navigate the legal process every step of the way. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Proven Results: We’ve helped clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care after serious construction site injuries.
- Experienced Guidance: From investigating unsafe conditions to handling negotiations, we know what it takes to build a strong case.
- Free Consultation: We offer a no-cost consultation so you can get trusted legal advice without any financial risk.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
Recovering from a construction accident is never easy, but having the right legal team on your side can make all the difference. At Ginnis, Krathen & Zelnick, we’re dedicated to protecting injured workers and holding negligent parties accountable.
If you’ve been injured on a job site, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our injury lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you need to recover.