Ohio Construction Accident Attorneys

Get Compensated for the Injuries You Sustained Due to Construction Accidents in Ohio

Construction sites can be incredibly dangerous for workers, employers, and pedestrians passing by. A typical construction site has a variety of heavy machinery, large and dangerous objects, precipitous heights, and many other moving pieces and parts. Because of these inherently dangerous machines, objects, and heights, construction accidents happen frequently and can lead to severe injury and even death.

Common construction accidents include falls from roofs, crane accidents, heavy machinery accidents, falling tools and equipment, explosions, burns, falls from scaffolding, unguarded hazards, and electrical failures. These hazards equally extend to both employees working the job and pedestrians walking by.

A construction accident is one of the worst types of personal injuries or workers’ compensation claims because it usually involves heavy equipment or working in precarious situations. When you are injured in these situations, it is important to call an attorney right away. At Karp Steiger, we handle both the workers’ compensation as well as the personal injury side of the claims for you. Medical bills can become very expensive due to your injuries. You could also face many challenges when finding evidence to back up your claims. 

Here at Karp Steiger, our lawyers have helped many people through these difficult circumstances related to construction accident injuries regularly.

What is a Construction Accident?

A construction accident refers to any incident that takes place at a construction site, resulting in harm or injury to individuals involved in the construction work. Construction is widely recognized as one of the riskiest occupations in the United States, with numerous workers experiencing injuries or fatalities each year. 

This high level of risk is primarily attributed to the nature of construction work itself, which involves operating heavy machinery, handling large vehicles, using power tools, and working in challenging environments like tall structures, unfinished buildings, or busy roads. 

When safety precautions are insufficient or safety regulations are disregarded, the likelihood of accidents and injuries escalates significantly.

What Are the Most Common Types of Construction Accidents?

Failing to adhere to safety rules and regulations creates unnecessary risks and elevates the potential for injuries. Construction site operators, workers, and particularly employers must prioritize proper conduct and take their responsibility for everyone’s safety at the construction site seriously. 

Below are a few examples of construction accidents that can occur when safety measures are not properly followed.

• Falls. Occur frequently due to unstable scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or unmarked drop-offs.
• Struck by Falling Objects. Accidents happen when workers are hit by objects that fall from above.
• Caught-in or Between Accidents. Workers can become trapped or crushed between objects, often heavy machinery or vehicles.
• Electrocutions. Commonly caused by exposed wires, extension cords, and power lines.
• Vehicle Accidents. Involving powered vehicles, such as rollovers, collisions with other vehicles, or striking workers.
• Crane Accidents. Including collapses, dropping of loads, or collisions.
• Slip and Fall Accidents. Occurring due to hazardous walking surfaces.
• Machine or Equipment Failure. Particularly with power tools like power saws and nail guns.
• Thermal and Chemical Burns. Resulting from exposure to heat, flames, or harmful chemicals.
• Explosions. Unforeseen detonations causing significant damage.
• Safety Equipment Failure. Instances where protective gear or safety devices malfunction.
• Heavy Equipment Accidents. Involving forklifts, backhoes, bulldozers, cranes, or track hoes.

Both drivers and pedestrians who need to navigate through construction zones face potential risks. An inadequately secured construction site can lead to car accidents, falls into trenches, or even structural collapses. 

Whether you were actively working at the site or not, it is crucial to reach out to our skilled Beachwood construction accident attorney to discuss your accident and seek appropriate legal guidance.

What Steps Can You Take If You Were Involved in an Ohio Construction Accident?

Immediately following a construction accident, the scene can be extremely chaotic. To stay calm, it is best to follow these steps, which will help you protect the project and make it easier for an investigation to take place.

Call 911

Call for emergency medical attention immediately. Those who are injured should avoid moving unless they are in a dangerous location. Bystanders should be moved to a safe location away from the accident.

File a Report

Report the accident to the proper organizations. For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will need to be notified that an accident has occurred. Insurance companies will also need to be informed of the accident. There may also be additional entities that require notification, like manufacturers or suppliers.

Identify the Employees

Interview the employees who were present during the accident. There is a possibility that these employees will become a part of the claim process even if they were not injured. Looking at the possible claims that may be filed or that your employees may defend is an important step.

Gather Evidence

Preserve evidence as quickly as possible, which will help to ensure that the investigation runs smoothly and that no questions come up later regarding this evidence. Some of the items that you may need to gather are emails, security videos, witness lists, and photographs.

Develop a Chain of Command

Determine who will be the spokesperson for the investigation. This person will be the one who will deal directly with the investigators, lawyers, and insurance companies. Laying this chain of command out can help avoid confusion later down the road.

Contact an Ohio Construction Accident Attorney

If you are a worker who was injured in a construction accident or a pedestrian injured at or near a construction site, call the attorneys at Karp Steiger to determine if you are entitled to compensation. Our team of attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case while you focus on what’s most important – you, your health, and your family.

Our team of Ohio construction accident lawyers has the experience and resources to investigate and develop the facts of your case to ensure just compensation. We will examine the scene of the accident, speak with potential witnesses, and determine who is at fault. 

We will make sure all of your rights are protected and will pursue all necessary legal avenues, whether through a lawsuit, negotiating with the at-fault party, or filing a worker’s compensation claim. Call us today at (216) 242-1171 if you or a loved one were injured in a construction accident.

What Possible Benefits Are Available for Injured Ohio Construction Workers?

If you have been harmed in a construction accident, you are entitled to seek compensation for your medical expenses and lost income that resulted from the incident. Additionally, if your injuries lead to permanent impairments, you can also pursue disability benefits to support you in the long term. 

It is important to understand your rights and take appropriate action to ensure you receive the compensation and benefits you deserve.

Medical Costs

Workers’ compensation insurance covers all necessary and reasonable medical costs related to your construction injury. This includes expenses such as visits to the doctor, surgical procedures, and prescribed medications. Additionally, if you need to travel more than 45 miles roundtrip for medical treatment, you may be eligible to receive compensation for mileage, lodging, and other associated expenses. 

It is important to be aware of these benefits and ensure you receive the necessary financial support for your medical needs.

Temporary Disability Benefits

If your construction accident prevents you from working for seven or more days, you have the opportunity to receive temporary disability benefits. These benefits come in two forms: total disability and partial disability.

If your injury leaves you completely unable to work for a minimum of two weeks, you may be eligible for temporary total disability benefits. On the other hand, if you can return to work but are only able to secure a lower-paying job or reduced hours due to your injury, you can potentially receive temporary partial disability benefits.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial in ensuring you receive the appropriate compensation for the impact your construction accident has had on your ability to work.

Permanent Disability Benefits

If you sustain a lasting impairment due to your construction accident, you may be eligible for permanent disability benefits. Once you have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), you will be required to undergo a medical examination where a doctor will assess your condition and determine the extent of your disability.

In the case of permanent and total disability, the following conditions are typically considered:

• Loss of both hands, arms, feet, or legs
• Total and permanent loss of vision in both eyes
• Severe brain injury resulting in permanent cognitive impairment
• Spinal cord injury causing permanent paralysis

If you have a lasting impairment but your disability is not considered total, you may be eligible to receive compensation for permanent partial disability. Injuries such as amputations, loss of an eye, or hearing loss in one ear could meet the criteria for these benefits. 

It is important to understand the specific guidelines and requirements related to permanent partial disability to pursue the appropriate compensation for your condition.

Survivor Benefits and Funeral Costs

In the unfortunate event that an employee loses their life due to a construction accident, the dependent family members may be entitled to survivor benefits. Ohio workers’ compensation insurance also offers support by providing up to $7,500 to cover funeral and burial expenses. 

The family members need to understand their rights and the available resources to help them during this difficult time.Why Do I Need a Construction Accident Attorney in Ohio?

While we cannot provide a definitive assurance of a specific result, our Beachwood construction accident attorney is dedicated to assisting you in various ways. When you collaborate with one of our legal team members, we will:

Take Prompt Action to Initiate the Legal Proceedings

It is important to understand that there is a specific timeframe for filing a personal injury case in Ohio. According to Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10, you have a period of two years to initiate your claim. This same timeframe applies to wrongful death cases as well.

Assess and Determine an Appropriate Amount of Compensation

Our legal team will assess the impact of your injuries on both your life and the lives of your family members. Using this information, we will then determine fair compensation that appropriately reflects the extent of your losses. Our goal is to assist you in pursuing the necessary damages that will help cover the expenses and hardships you have experienced as a result of the accident.

Act as Your Advocate to Protect Your Interests 

Throughout the entire legal process, our personal injury attorney will serve as your advocate, working diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We will actively gather evidence to support your claim and fight for a settlement that is fair and just.

Engage in Communication With Other Parties Involved

Our dedicated team will act as your representatives, speaking on your behalf and keeping you informed about the developments and progress of your case. Rest assured that we will be there to provide regular updates and ensure that you are always aware of what is happening.

Identify and Hold Accountable Potential Liable Parties

Our qualified Beachwood construction accident attorney will diligently strive to establish the responsible party for the injuries you have endured and seek to hold them accountable for their actions. 

We will gather compelling evidence to demonstrate how the actions or lack thereof of another individual or entity have caused you harm. Through this evidence, we will emphasize that you deserve rightful compensation as a consequence of their actions.

Our lawyers at Karp Steiger Co., LPA have all the qualities mentioned above which is essential to protect your rights and navigate the complexities of the legal system when you’ve suffered injuries or losses on a construction site. With our experience and guidance, you can seek fair compensation and ensure your best interests are represented throughout the legal process.

Work With Our Experienced Beachwood Construction Accident Attorney Today

Construction accidents pose significant risks to workers and can result in severe injuries, property damage, and even loss of life. To navigate the legal complexities that arise from construction accidents in Ohio, it is essential to seek the assistance of experienced legal professionals. 

Karp Steiger Co., LPA is a renowned law firm dedicated to serving clients in Ohio. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we can provide invaluable legal guidance and support to individuals and families affected by construction accidents. 

Our team of skilled personal injury attorneys understands the complexities of Ohio’s construction laws and regulations, enabling them to navigate the intricacies of the legal system effectively. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or damages in a construction accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Karp Steiger Co., LPA. 

Our compassionate and dedicated Beachwood construction accident attorney is ready to provide personalized attention, diligently pursue your case, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact Karp Steiger Co., LPA today to schedule a risk free consultation and take the first step towards resolving your construction accident issues. 

Our law firm can also assist you with Car Accidents, Truck Accidents, Dog Bites and Animal Attacks, Slip and Fall, Nursing Home Abuse, and Sex Abuse. Our commitment to client satisfaction and our track record of successful outcomes make us a trusted choice for legal representation in Ohio.