Indianapolis Workers’ Compensation Laws

Under Indiana law, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. This insurance provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job, including medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits.

If you have been injured in a construction accident while on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim can be complicated, and insurance companies may try to deny or minimize your claim. Our construction site accident law firm can help you navigate the workers’ compensation process and ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

Understanding OSHA Regulations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency that is responsible for ensuring that employers provide safe working conditions for their employees. OSHA has established regulations that govern construction sites, including rules for fall protection, scaffolding, and electrical safety.

And if you suffered a construction injury due to an OSHA violation, you may be entitled to additional compensation beyond what is available through workers’ compensation. 20% of all work-related deaths are from construction workers according to the U.S. Department of Labor.  Our construction site accident lawyers can help you determine if a violation contributed to your accident and pursue additional compensation on your behalf.

Common Accidents in Construction Sites in Indiana

Construction sites are a hotbed of potential accidents, with workers exposed to hazards such as heavy machinery, falling objects, and dangerous chemicals. Here’s a list of common accidents we have dealt with clients in the past:

Certainly, here are some common accidents that can occur at work sites:

  • Falls from heights, such as off scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or elevated platforms
  • Being struck by falling objects, such as tools, equipment, or building materials
  • Electrocution from exposed wires, live electrical equipment, or lightning strikes
  • Injuries caused by heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, cranes, or forklifts
  • Trench collapses or cave-ins, which can lead to suffocation or crushing injuries
  • Fires or explosions from flammable chemicals, gas leaks, or faulty equipment
  • Exposure to toxic substances, such as asbestos, lead, or mold, can cause long-term health problems
  • Slips, trips, and falls on uneven surfaces, debris, or wet floors
  • Heat exhaustion or heat stroke from working in high temperatures and humidity
  • Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or back strains, from doing the same motions repeatedly for long periods.

It’s important to note that these accidents are not an exhaustive list, and each construction site presents its unique set of hazards. It’s essential to have proper safety protocols in place, such as providing protective gear, regular equipment maintenance, and adequate training, to prevent accidents and protect workers’ health and safety. 

orange road work sign warning against construction site accidents

How to Proceed After a Construction Site Accident in Indianapolis

After a construction site accident, your top priority should be your health and safety. Please ensure any injuries get taken care of immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some construction accident injuries may not be immediately apparent, like knee or ankle damage, and delayed treatment can lead to more serious health issues down the line.

Once you have taken care of your health, it is important to take steps to protect your legal rights. Here are some key steps to take after a construction site accident in Indianapolis:

1. Report the accident to your employer

Under Indiana law, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. If you were injured while on the job, it is important to report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Failure to report the accident could jeopardize your ability to receive workers’ compensation benefits.

2. Gather evidence

If possible, gather evidence at the scene of the accident. Take photographs of the area where the accident occurred and any equipment or machinery involved in the accident. Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.

3. Consult with an experienced construction site accident lawyer

Construction work site accidents can be complex, and it is important to work with an experienced injury lawyer who can help you navigate the legal system. A construction site accident attorney can help you file a workers’ compensation claim, determine if you are entitled to additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure the best possible outcome.

4. Don’t sign anything without consulting with a lawyer

Insurance companies may try to offer you a settlement shortly after the accident. It is important to consult with a lawyer before accepting any settlement offer. An injury lawyer can help you determine if the offer is fair and adequate, and ensure that you are not giving up any legal rights by accepting the offer.

5. Keep track of your medical expenses and lost wages

If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to lost wages through workers’ compensation. Keep track of your medical expenses and lost wages, and provide this information to your lawyer. Your Indianapolis construction accident attorneys can help you determine what types of compensation you may be entitled to, and ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you are owed.

Contact Christie Farrell Lee & Bell for Experienced Legal Representation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction site injury, contact Christie Farrell Lee & Bell for experienced legal representation. Our construction site accident lawyers have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you navigate the complex legal issues involved in these types

How Our Indianapolis Construction Site Accident Lawyers Can Help

We understand the unique challenges of construction site accidents and have the experience and knowledge necessary to navigate the legal system on your behalf. Here’s how we can help you seek justice if you suffered an accident:

  1. Initial consultation: Our first step is to meet with you for a free initial consultation to discuss your case. We will review the details of your accident and determine the best course of action.
  2. Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident, gathering evidence and witness statements to build a strong case.
  3. Claim filing: Our personal injury lawyers will handle the paperwork and filing of your claim for you, ensuring that all necessary documents are submitted in a timely and accurate manner.
  4. Negotiation: We will negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved in your case to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers have a proven track record of success in negotiating fair settlements for our clients.
  5. Litigation: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights. Our experienced trial lawyers have the skills and expertise necessary to represent you in court and achieve the best possible outcome.

Throughout the process, we will keep you informed and updated on the progress of your case. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and the best possible legal representation so that you can focus on your recovery.

Don’t wait to seek legal representation after a construction site accident. Contact our team at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell today to schedule your free initial consultation with our experienced Indianapolis construction site accident lawyer. We are here to help you claim the damages and injuries you have suffered and get the justice you deserve.