New Jersey Construction Site Fall From Heights

The injuries associated with New Jersey construction site falls from heights can prove devastating. Construction workers often work at potentially dangerous heights. With inadequate safety equipment, trip hazards, or even damaged roof materials, an accident can occur in the blink of an eye. Working with a construction accident attorney could help you learn about their rights after a fall.

Workers’ Comp vs. Personal Injury Claims

When a worker on a job site suffers injuries in the course of their job duties, they have the right to file a workers’ comp claim. Workers’ comp generally covers all medical costs associated with the accident, as well as a percentage of the injured worker’s wages while they recover.

On the other hand, if another party’s negligence led to a fall from heights on a construction site, the injured New Jersey worker may have the right to file a personal injury claim. A personal injury claim issues a lump sum payment for the damages the worker sustained because of their injuries, including their medical costs, lost wages, and suffering.

Liability in Construction Site Falls From Heights

Construction site falls from heights in New Jersey can occur due to worker error or accident, in which case, the worker would generally need to file a workers’ comp claim. However, sometimes, the worker may fall because of another party’s negligence. That can include:

• The property owner’s failure to warn the construction company about potential dangers
• Inadequate safety equipment
• Lack of safety instruction/preparation
• Damaged equipment, including safety harnesses or scaffolding

When the construction company engages in dangerous or negligent behaviors, the worker may have the right to file a direct claim for compensation against the company. On the other hand, if the fall occurred due to damaged equipment, a worker may need to file a claim against the company that produced the equipment or the company that rented out the equipment. Working with a lawyer can make it easier to determine who bears liability for the fall.

Injuries in Falls From Heights on Construction Sites

Construction sites are filled with potential hazards that can increase the risk of a fall. Construction workers in New Jersey often have to work at excessive heights, where a fall can prove absolutely devastating. Injuries may include:

• Head injuries
• Back and neck injuries
• Shattered bones
• Severe lacerations
• Organ damage

Falling from heights on a construction site can also cause the worker’s death. If the worker dies as a result of their injuries, the surviving family may have the right to file a wrongful death claim, which would provide compensation for the loss of the worker’s wages, their final expenses, the loss of the services they performed for the family, and the loss of their presence in the family home.

Discuss New Jersey Construction Site Falls From Heights With an Attorney

New Jersey construction site falls from heights often mean devastating injuries. Unfortunately, you may end up fighting with the insurance company to get full coverage for your injuries and medical treatment or the compensation you deserve from a negligent individual or entity that caused your accident. At Garces, Grabler, & LeBrocq, we are familiar with both workers’ comp claims and personal injury claims for construction accidents, and we know how to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.