Construction accidents are unfortunately common in South Carolina, and they can leave workers with severe injuries that require immediate medical attention. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, it’s essential to take certain steps to ensure that you protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve. Here are some essential things to do after a South Carolina construction accident.
Seek medical attention
Your health should always be your top priority. If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, seek medical attention right away. Even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously hurt, it’s essential to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries may not be apparent right away, and you may need medical treatment in the future.
Report the accident
Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer is required to report the accident to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) if the accident results in hospitalization, amputation, or loss of an eye. OSHA investigates workplace accidents and can help identify any safety violations that contributed to the accident.
Document the accident
If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including any equipment involved and any injuries sustained. Also, write down the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Keep any documentation related to the accident, including medical bills and any correspondence with your employer or insurance company.
Contact an attorney
It’s a good idea to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. An attorney can investigate the accident, identify any responsible parties, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Follow your doctor’s orders
It’s essential to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all scheduled appointments. Failure to do so may not only harm your health but may also harm your case if you decide to pursue legal action.
File a workers’ compensation claim
If you were injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation provides medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits to injured workers. Your employer should have workers’ compensation insurance, which will cover your injuries.
Consider filing a personal injury lawsuit
In some cases, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the party responsible for the accident. This could include the construction company, a subcontractor, or even the manufacturer of faulty equipment. In a personal injury lawsuit, you may be able to recover damages for pain and suffering, lost earning capacity, and other non-economic damages that workers’ compensation may not cover.
Keep track of your expenses and losses
Keep detailed records of all expenses related to your injury, including medical bills, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket expenses. This information will be essential when seeking compensation from your employer or other parties responsible for the accident.
Be cautious when speaking with insurance companies
Insurance companies may try to contact you after an accident to gather information or offer a settlement. It’s essential to be cautious when speaking with insurance companies, as they may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or pressure you into accepting a settlement that is lower than what you are entitled to. It’s always best to consult with an attorney before speaking with insurance companies.
Take care of yourself
Dealing with a construction accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. It’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Attend any necessary medical appointments, follow your doctor’s orders, and consider seeking counseling or support if needed.
A South Carolina construction accident can have significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Seek medical attention, report the accident, document the accident, contact an attorney, file a workers’ compensation claim, consider filing a personal injury lawsuit, keep track of your expenses and losses, be cautious when speaking with insurance companies, and take care of yourself. With these steps, you can work towards a brighter future and a full recovery.
As a law firm that specializes in personal injury cases, including construction accidents, we at Christian & Christian Law can help you in several ways if you have been injured in a South Carolina construction accident:
We can provide you with expert legal advice regarding your construction accident case. We can help you understand your rights and options, and guide you through the legal process.
We will conduct a thorough investigation into your construction accident case. We will review all of the evidence, including witness statements, photographs, and medical records, to determine who is at fault and what compensation you are entitled to.
We will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
If a settlement cannot be reached, we will represent you in court. We will fight for your rights and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
We will keep you informed throughout the legal process. We will answer your questions and keep you up-to-date on the status of your case.
We at Christian & Christian Law can provide you with the legal support you need if you have been injured in a South Carolina construction accident. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you.