Atlanta
Scaffolding Accident Lawyer

When scaffold workers head out to construction sites, they know they are working in dangerous conditions. That is precisely why they have the right to work in an environment that follows the strictest safety standards. Both the federal and state governments regulate how to place scaffolding.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, give an experienced Atlanta scaffold accident lawyer at John Foy & Associates a call for a free consultation.

What You Should I Do if You or a Loved One Has Been Injured in a Scaffolding Accident?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a work-related scaffold accident, take down as much information as possible. Who is the contractor? Who put up the scaffolding? Were there any witnesses? If so, get their names and telephone numbers. Take as many photos as possible.

You have 30 days to alert your manager, but this can be as simple as telling a coworker or supervisor. You should also make sure you are getting proper medical treatment.

These types of accidents tend to be quite severe, and you or your loved one may have been unable to gather this information. A scaffold accident lawyer in Atlanta at John Foy & Associates can recreate the accident and collect the names of the companies involved.

What Not to Do After a Scaffold Accident 

Never make recorded statements with anyone without first consulting your attorney. This includes your manager, an insurance representative, or another attorney. Of course, we want and expect you to tell the truth, but you need a lawyer at your side.

John Foy & Associates is located in the heart of Atlanta. From our offices, we see construction projects around this great city.  Call John Foy & Associates for a free and confidential consultation.

Why Do Construction Sites Use Scaffolding?

Construction sites use scaffolding so that workers can access the area in a safe, protected manner. Scaffolding is a temporary structure around bridges, buildings, and other manufactured structures. They are highly regulated because of their danger.

Often, scaffolding companies are separate entities because the specialty is so complicated and dangerous.

What Are the Statistics for Scaffolding Accidents?

OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, stated that scaffolding violations are the primary reason for citations on construction sites. Falls, whether from scaffolding or ladders, are the number one cause of construction deaths. Each year, between 300 and 400 construction workers suffer fatal falls, usually when working on roofs, ladders, and scaffolds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Considering that almost every construction worker spends time on scaffolding, this is a serious matter. This can include electricians, ironworkers, painters, carpenters, and masons.

What Should You Do if You or a Loved One Was Injured as a Bystander from Falling Scaffolding?

If you or a loved one has been injured as a bystander from falling scaffolding, write down as much information as possible. Take photographs of the site, and document any witnesses and phone numbers.

If you can, get the name of the construction company. Projects often have placards stating the name of the responsible party. Take a photograph of that information.

Never discuss this case with the construction workers. There will be plenty of time to review the case, but you should first seek medical treatment and legal help. You should never make a recorded phone call about this case until you employ an Atlanta scaffold accident attorney.

If someone else’s negligence has injured you, you can be compensated for necessary medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What Are Common Injuries from Scaffolding Accidents?

Common injuries from scaffolding are:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Fractures of extremities
• Spinal cord injuries
• Sprains, strains, tissue damage
• Death

Does It Make a Difference if I Suffered a Scaffolding Accident at Work?

Yes, if you are injured on the job, you have the right to a workers’ compensation claim. The state of Georgia requires that every worker be covered by this insurance program from the first day on the job. 

What Are Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

If you or someone you love has been injured in a scaffold accident, specific benefits may be available through a worker’s compensation claim. These benefits include:

• Wage replacement benefits – You can expect to collect approximately 66% of your average weekly earnings while receiving worker’s compensation. This can continue for up to 400 weeks or until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI).
• Vocational rehabilitation benefits – You may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation benefits if your injuries prevent you from continuing to work in construction and on scaffolds. If you need job training or further education to reenter the workforce, your employer’s workers comp insurance provider will be expected to cover these costs.
• Death benefits – Death benefits are paid to surviving family members of those who pass away from scaffold accidents and other related work injuries. The insurer will compensate you for your loved one’s funeral and burial expenses. 
• Healthcare benefits – You will not be expected to pay any of your medical expenses after a scaffold accident. The insurance company will cover any existing and future medical bills you incur as a result of your scaffold accident injuries.

If My Boss Says I Am Partly Responsible for the Scaffolding Accident, Do I Still Have a Case?

Georgia’s workers’ compensation is set up as a no-fault system. It does not matter who is at fault. If you were injured on the job, you have a right to a workers’ compensation claim.

It would be best never to let anyone blame you for an accident. Your manager has the responsibility to train you and provide you with safe equipment.

In the heat of the moment after an accident, it is easy to point the finger angrily, but the investigators at John Foy & Associates will look at the accident professionally and scientifically. We have over 20 years of experience helping those injured in construction accidents.

If My Spouse Was Killed in a Scaffolding Accident, Do I Have a Case Against His Employer?

To lose someone you love and rely on is quite devastating. As the spouse, you can file a wrongful death claim. We can pursue financial compensation, and we can work with the courts to make sure that no one else loses a spouse due to this type of negligence.

You will be treated with as much dignity and privacy as possible. You only get one chance to file a wrongful death case.

Make sure you have proper legal representation. Give your scaffold accident attorney in Atlanta, GA, a call or fill out our online contact form for a 100% free consultation.

Do I Need Different Attorneys for a Workers’ Compensation Case and a Personal Injury Case?

You only need different attorneys if you employ a law firm that only practices one or the other. John Foy & Associates can help you with both a workers’ compensation case and a personal injury case. Our 20-plus attorneys and 100 staff members work together to ensure each case gets our fullest attention.

How Can John Foy & Associates Help Me if I Have Been Injured in a Scaffolding Accident?

If you have been injured in a scaffolding accident, either as a worker or a bystander, you only have one chance to be compensated for your pain and suffering. These kinds of cases can be quite complicated. 

Construction sites tend to have multiple companies with several employees and contractors who do not always know each other. Your scaffold accident lawyer in Atlanta, GA, will handle all the legal details so you can get the most out of your claim.

Get Help from a Scaffold Accident Lawyer in Atlanta Today

John Foy & Associates is a well-established and well-respected– personal injury firm. We have more than 20 years of experience in fighting for victims of construction accidents. Your Atlanta scaffold accident lawyer will not get paid until there is a settlement. 

If there is no settlement, we do not get paid. Because we are a large firm, we can afford to fight for a long time to bring you the best settlement possible. We can wait, and we can absorb any costs.

You deserve strength, integrity, and experience from your attorney. Give us a call or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Our phones are answered at any time, any day of the year.