A construction accident can cause devastating injuries. If you’ve been the victim of one, a Warner Robins personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim.
Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces in Georgia. If you’ve been hurt while working on one, you deserve to be compensated.
The attorneys at John Foy & Associates have over 350 years of combined experience. If you’ve been injured on a job site, a construction accident lawyer in Warner Robins can help you obtain the compensation you’re entitled to.
Why Hire a Warner Robins Construction Accident Lawyer?
If you’ve been hurt at work, a Warner Robins construction accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident: An attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review safety logs and reports.
- Identify all liable parties: A lawyer can determine if your employer, a subcontractor, or a third party is responsible.
- Handle insurance negotiations: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can protect your interests and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
- File a claim: Whether you’re pursuing workers’ compensation or a personal injury lawsuit, a lawyer can ensure the paperwork is complete and submitted on time.
- Represent you in court: If a fair settlement isn’t possible, an attorney can present your case in court.
Get the strong arm
How Much Do Accident Lawyers Charge in Georgia?
The construction accident lawyers at John Foy & Associates work on a contingency fee basis, meaning your attorney only gets paid if you win your case. Your lawyer’s fee will be a predetermined percentage of your final settlement or award, which you can discuss at your consultation.
How Much Is My Construction Accident Claim Worth?
Settlements for construction accidents can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. The value of your claim will depend on the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, lost income, and how the accident impacts your future earning potential.
A Warner Robins construction accident attorney can help you pursue the maximum possible compensation.
Who Is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation in Georgia?
Under Georgia law, most employers with three or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance. You are eligible for workers’ comp if:
- You were injured while performing job duties.
- You are classified as an employee (not an independent contractor).
- Your injuries were not the result of intoxication or horseplay.
Even if your employer was not at fault, you may still receive benefits through workers’ compensation.
Types of Benefits You Can Receive
If you’re approved for workers’ compensation in Georgia, you may be entitled to several types of benefits, including:
- Medical benefits: Workers’ comp covers all necessary and reasonable medical care related to your injury, including hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and surgeries.
- Temporary total disability (TTD): If you’re unable to work at all due to your injury, you can receive wage replacement benefits equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to the state maximum.
- Temporary partial disability (TPD): If you can return to work but earn less than before, you may receive partial wage replacement based on the difference in earnings.
- Permanent partial disability (PPD): If you suffer permanent impairment but can still work in some capacity, you may qualify for additional compensation based on the severity of the injury and a doctor’s impairment rating.
- Vocational rehabilitation: In some cases, you may receive job training or education to help you transition to a new type of work.
- Death benefits: If a worker is killed in a construction accident, their dependents may receive compensation for funeral costs and lost wages.
How to Apply for Workers’ Comp in Georgia
To apply for workers’ compensation in Georgia, you must complete these steps:
- Report the injury: Notify your employer within 30 days of the accident. Failure to report your injury on time could disqualify you from benefits.
- Seek medical attention: Get treatment from an approved provider listed by your employer.
- File a claim: You or your attorney must submit Form WC–14 to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation and send copies to your employer and their insurance company. This should be done within one year of your injury.
A Warner Robins workers’ compensation lawyer can guide you through this process.
Can I Sue My Employer?
In most cases, Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws prevent you from suing your employer directly. However, you might be able to file a lawsuit if:
- Your employer intentionally caused you harm.
- A third party, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, was responsible for your injury.
A construction accident attorney in Warner Robins can assess whether you have grounds for a personal injury claim.
How Long Do I Have to File a Construction Accident Claim in Georgia?
The deadline for filing a construction accident claim depends on the type of legal action you’re taking:
- Workers’ compensation: You must report your injury to your employer within 30 days and file a claim with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation within one year of the accident.
- Personal injury lawsuit: You typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
Failing to meet these deadlines can result in losing your right to compensation.
Who Is Liable for a Construction Accident in Georgia?
Parties who can be held liable for a construction accident include:
- Employers
- General contractors or subcontractors
- Property owners
- Equipment manufacturers
- Third-party vendors
A lawyer can help identify all liable parties and pursue compensation from each.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Construction Accident Claim?
It can take anywhere from a few months to several years to settle a construction accident claim. Some of the factors that will determine the duration of your case include:
- Injury severity
- Length of medical treatment
- Willingness of insurance companies to settle
- Clarity of liability
- Whether a lawsuit is necessary
A personal injury lawyer in Warner Robins can work to expedite this process.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
Construction sites are full of hazards. Some of the most common types of construction accidents include:
- Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs
- Trench collapses
- Electrocution
- Being struck by falling objects
- Machinery or equipment accidents
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Explosions or fires
- Exposure to toxic substances
Common Injuries in Construction Accidents
Some of the most common construction accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Lacerations and amputations
- Crush injuries
- Hearing or vision loss
- Internal organ damage
Speak to a Construction Accident Attorney in Warner Robins
If you’ve been hurt in a construction accident, you deserve fair compensation for your injuries. A Warner Robins construction accident lawyer from John Foy & Associates can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and help you file a claim.
Schedule a free consultation to take the first step toward protecting your future.
478-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form