Impact of Construction Accidents on Families in Evansville

The consequences of construction accidents can be significant, affecting more than just the individual involved. Families are left to cope with emotional and financial hardships, while communities face the broader repercussions of decreased productivity and growth disruption.

The statistics paint a sobering picture. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 2,5 cases of construction accidents per 100 full-time workers yearly, resulting in 1,000+ fatalities.

Construction accidents can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even wrongful death.

In this scenario, comprehensive legal expertise is essential to guide victims through the legal system to get the compensation they deserve.

Causes of Construction Accidents

Construction sites are dynamic environments where various hazards converge, increasing the risk of accidents. There are many circumstances from which construction accidents can arise, such as human error, equipment failure, slip and falls, and unsafe working conditions, among others.

Some of the most common causes of construction accidents in Indiana include:

Falls from Heights

Working at elevated heights exposes construction workers to significant risks. Falls from roofs, ladders, scaffolds, or platforms can result in suffering serious injuries.

Also, these accidents are very common. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from heights have been the leading cause of construction fatalities in recent years.

Electrocution

Electrocution accidents are another pervasive threat on construction sites, endangering workers who are exposed to live wires, faulty equipment, or inadequate safety measures.

Struck by an Object

Construction sites can sometimes yield hazardous scenarios, where falling objects like tools, debris, or equipment can strike workers. These accidents can cause diverse serious injuries that range from broken bones and head injuries to internal injuries.

Caught in Between Objects

Navigating tight spaces and heavy machinery exposes workers to the risk of being caught in between objects, which is another common cause of construction accidents. People who are working in trenches or near heavy equipment are at major risk of being caught and suffering serious injuries.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

The rhythmic nature of construction tasks can lead to repetitive motion injuries, silently worsening over time. Performing the same tasks over and over again can lead to injuries causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the affected area, among other symptoms.

Heat Stress

Evansville’s sweltering summers can exacerbate the challenges construction workers face. Surely, working on a construction site is often physically demanding, especially during hot weather. Under these circumstances, it’s important to know that heat stress can cause dehydration, dizziness, and even heat stroke.

Chemical Exposure

The use of hazardous chemicals on construction sites can result in long-term health issues for workers. Exposure to substances like asbestos, lead, and silica can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and silicosis.

Damages You Can Recover After a Construction Accident in Indiana

Indiana Code § 34-51-2 outlines the damages you can recover in personal injury cases. It’s a resource we leverage to build robust cases that secure adequate compensation.

After a construction accident in Evansville, Indiana, you may be able to recover several damages for your injuries. These include:

Medical Bills

Medical expenses can accumulate quickly after a construction accident, including the cost of hospitalization, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.

However, the amount you may be able to recover ****is dependent on the specificities of your case. Meticulously assessing the financial consequences of your injuries ensures you are adequately compensated.

Lost Wages

The injuries caused by a construction accident can result in time away from work, translating to lost wages and financial strain.

Nevertheless, you can secure compensation for the income you’ve been deprived of due to someone else’s negligence. This can also include any future lost wages if the injury has had a long-term impact on the injured party’s ability to work.

The Legal Process of Filing a Construction Accident Claim in Evansville

After a construction accident, it’s necessary to acquire knowledge of Indiana law and craft a strategic approach in order to file a claim to recover damages. Typically, this process involves:

Investigating the Accident

The first step in filing a personal injury claim for a construction accident is investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and examining the accident scene.

Indiana Code § 22-3-9 underscores the importance of establishing liability. In this scenario, an experienced attorney can help you gather the evidence you need to build a strong case.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

The next step after building a strong foundation of evidence through meticulous investigation includes negotiating with insurance companies to reach a settlement.

After 40+ years of experience handling personal injury cases, we can confirm that, unfortunately, insurance companies are often more interested in protecting their bottom line than in paying out claims. In this scenario, having an attorney who can negotiate on your behalf ensures that you’re not coerced into accepting less than you deserve.

Filing a Lawsuit

When negotiations fail and involved parties can’t reach an agreement, the next step is to file a lawsuit and begin the litigation process.

Taking your case into court requires personal injury attorneys who are well-versed in Indiana’s legal procedures and can build a strong case with maximum chances of securing fair compensation for your damages.

Seeking Legal Help from a Construction Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in Evansville, Indiana, securing legal representation is key to effectively navigating each step of the process of filing a personal injury claim. By seeking legal help as soon as possible, you can recover the compensation you deserve after a construction accident.

Don’t Settle for Less – Claim the Compensation You Deserve

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we’re committed to building a strong case, negotiating with involved parties, and taking your case to court if necessary. Our decades of experience in construction site accident cases can help you secure maximum compensation for your injuries.

Your journey to justice begins with a conversation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your life after a construction accident.