Construction sites are often riddled with hazards. Despite rigorous safety standards, accidents happen, often leading to serious injuries or fatalities. If you have been injured in a construction accident in Kansas City, having a legal ally can make a significant difference in navigating the aftermath. Contact a Kansas City construction accident lawyer at Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe for a free consultation, and learn how we can help you protect your rights and secure rightful compensation. Call (818) 876-2600 to speak with a Kansas City injury attorney today.
Types of Construction Accidents
Construction sites are often bustling with activities that, despite stringent safety measures, can sometimes lead to hazardous incidents. Here is a deeper dive into common types of construction accidents in Kansas City:
- Falls from Height: Falls are the most common type of construction accidents, often resulting from inadequate fall protection, unstable working surfaces, or misused or faulty equipment.
- Electrocutions: Electrocution accidents can be perilous.
- Machinery Accidents: Heavy machinery, if not operated or maintained correctly, can lead to serious accidents.
- Being Struck by Falling Objects: Debris or tools falling from elevated areas can cause severe injuries.
- Trench Collapses: Trenches can be exceptionally hazardous if not properly shored.
- Fires and Explosions: Construction sites may house various flammable materials and gases, leading to fires or explosions. You can contact one our experienced Kansas City burn injury attorneys if you have been injured in a fire.
- Vehicle Accidents: Construction vehicles and equipment can cause accidents, especially in busy construction sites. If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident, please reach out to a car accident lawyer in Kansas City.
- Overexertion and Heat Stress: Construction workers often work in extreme conditions which can lead to overexertion or heat stress.
Each of these accidents not only highlights the inherent dangers within construction sites but also underscores the importance of adherence to safety protocols and guidelines. Understanding the common causes of construction accidents can aid in establishing liability and recovering just compensation for your injuries. Speaking with a Kansas City personal injury attorney can also help you recover the justice you deserve.
Seeking Compensation After a Construction Accident in Kansas City
Navigating through the aftermath of a construction accident can be a taxing ordeal, both emotionally and financially. Understanding the avenues for seeking compensation is crucial in alleviating the financial burden on you and your family and fostering a conducive environment for your physical recovery.
Compensation for injuries and losses sustained as a result of a construction accident can be pursued through various channels depending on the specifics of the accident:
Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. In Kansas City, like in other states, employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance. Under this system, you may be entitled to benefits according to the Department of Labor & Industrial Relations such as:
- Medical Benefits: Coverage for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury.
- Temporary Total Disability Benefits (TTD): Compensation for wage loss during the period of recovery.
- Permanent Partial Disability Benefits (PPD): Compensation for any permanent impairment or loss of use of a body part.
- Permanent Total Disability Benefits (PTD): Compensation if the injury results in the inability to return to any type of employment.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Services to help in returning to work if you are unable to return to your previous job due to your injury.
A Personal Injury Claim
If you are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim to recover damages. Similarly, if your injury was caused by the negligence of a third party other than your employer, then in addition to your workers’ compensation claim, you may be entitled to pursue a third-party personal injury claim. For example:
- The Negligence of a Contractor/Subcontractor: If a contractor or subcontractor other than your employer acted negligently, causing or contributing to your injury.
- Product Liability: If your injury was caused by defective equipment or machinery.
- Premises Liability: If the property owner’s negligence led to unsafe conditions resulting in your injury.
A personal injury claim can provide compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Including past, present, and future medical bills related to the injury.
- Lost Wages: Covering the income you lost while recovering, and potential future earnings if your ability to work has been impacted.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced due to the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to enjoy the same quality of life as before the accident.
Why Hire a Kansas City Construction Accident Lawyer?
The intricacies involved in establishing liability and pursuing compensation after a construction accident require the expertise of a skilled Kansas City construction accident lawyer. An experienced construction accident lawyer in Kansas City can ensure your rights are protected and help you maximize the compensation you receive.
At Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe, we are skilled at meticulously analyzing the circumstances surrounding your accident, identifying all potential sources of compensation, and advocating fiercely for your rights. With a legacy spanning over a century and a monumental recovery of over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for our clients, our firm stands as a testament to relentless pursuit of justice for accident victims.
Contact an Experienced Kansas City Construction Accident Lawyer at Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe
If you or a loved one was injured in a construction accident in Kansas City, you need an experienced Kansas City construction accident attorney to stand by your side, fighting for your rights. Reach out to Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe today for a free consultation at (816) 876-2600, or toll-free at (877) 816-2600. Let us help you navigate the path to justice and compensation.