Construction sites are common places for injuries to occur, with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reporting that falls and scaffolding accidents, machinery, and improper hazard communication are some of the most frequent causes. Usually, the workers on these sites are the most likely victims.

If you are injured in the course of your construction job, you are likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits from your employer, and if you or your employer were responsible for the accident that caused your injury, this may be your only option for compensation. However, many construction site accidents involve the negligence of a third party, in which case you can pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim.

Negligent Third Parties in a Construction Site Accident

Often, many different parties are involved with a construction project, and it is possible for any of them to contribute to unsafe circumstances that could result in an accident. Possible third parties that could be considered negligent include:

When you have been injured at work, your thoughts may initially turn to filing for workers’ compensation benefits to cover the costs and damages associated with your injuries. Such a reaction is reasonable, as workers’ compensation is intended to offer coverage for a large majority of workplace accidents and injuries. There are, however, many situations in which workers’ compensation is either insufficient or inappropriate, and a separate lawsuit may be necessary.

Personal Injury and Third-Party Lawsuits

The best and most appropriate route for obtaining the compensation you deserve following a workplace injury depends on a number of factors. First, the cause of your injury is important. If you were injured in an accident that nobody else caused while in the normal scope of your job, a personal injury lawsuit will probably not be necessary.

Food service orientated positions can historically be described as jobs with grueling schedules, low wages, and overall stress producers. As of July 1, 2017, the minimum wage for service oriented jobs will increase from $10.50 to $12.00 per hour. Yet while this wage increase may be a welcome advancement, the one factor that change will elude is the dangerous threat of on-the-job or workplace injuries.

Brian Garry, senior director of foodservice for the Cintas Corporation, recently stated that many operators simply do not anticipate an accident or personal injury and are often left unprepared.

In an effort to better educate owners, managers, and employees, Cintas recently identified the top four personal injuries often suffered by restaurant workers.

Electricians and construction site workers are exposed to potential electrical injuries daily. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1,738 occupational fatalities were caused by contact with an electric current between 2003-2010. In fact, the construction industry had the highest number of electrical fatalities—849.

To avoid workplace accidents, the safety of these individuals rests on the shoulders of both electricians and contractors. When safety guidelines are not followed properly, all workers are put at risk for exposure to potential electrical injuries.

Injuries Caused by a Contact with an Electric Current

After sustaining an injury while at work, it often becomes difficult, if not impossible, to continue employment. Without working, there is no paycheck and without that income, daily bills start to accrue. Let us not forget that in addition to those monthly dues there now is the added necessity for visits for medical professionals. Many often stress about making ends meet after an injury. Following a workplace injury at the fault of someone else, the negligent party should be held responsible.  

Understand the Difference

Understanding the various options for claims is the best way to begin the recovery process. There are two potential routes to pursue. The best solution for you is dependent on the circumstances of the incident. The two options available are: