Potential Sources of Compensation When You’re Hurt on a Construction Job
It’s no secret that residential and commercial construction jobs are among the most dangerous occupations in the world. Construction workers are hurt in falls, by falling objects, by dangerous or defective tools and machines, and by the carelessness of supervisors and coworkers. If you’re hurt in a construction site accident, you need to know the options available to help you recover for lost wages, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of companionship or consortium, and physical pain and suffering.
A New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Claim
In New Jersey, employers who are not covered by a federal program, or not approved to self-insure, must have a valid policy of workers’ compensation insurance for employees. To qualify for workers’ comp benefits in New Jersey, you need to establish only two things: that you suffered an injury, and that the injury occurred during the course of your employment. You must immediately notify your employer of your injury, and you should retain legal counsel as soon as possible in order to fully protect your rights. The benefits you receive will depend on a number of variables, including the extent of your disability and whether you are temporarily or permanently disabled.
A Personal Injury Lawsuit
New Jersey workers’ compensation is the exclusive remedy for injuries caused by the carelessness or negligence of an employer or a coworker. In those situations, you cannot file a personal injury claim in court. However, if your injury was caused in part by an unrelated third party, you can file a separate personal injury claim to recover from that party. For example, if you are injured by the malfunction of a defective machine or piece of equipment, you might have a legal claim for damages against the manufacturer. Such a claim may be filed simultaneously with a workers’ compensation claim.
Contact Howard D. Popper, P.C.
For a free initial consultation to discuss your options after a construction site injury, contact our office online or call 973-993-8787 to set up an appointment. We have offices in Morristown and Newton. Currently, all our client communications are by phone, text message, or online videoconference.
We handle all wrongful death claims on a contingent-fee basis. You won’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover damages for your losses.