New Jersey Construction Site Slip and Fall Accidents

Construction sites are often chaotic, with multiple trades working on different aspects of the project at the same time. As workers strive to meet deadlines, they can step on misplaced tools or stumble as they rush across a construction site. Uneven surfaces and wet areas can go unnoticed until someone slips and falls. While some slips may be minor, other falls can be life-changing. If you or someone you know experienced a New Jersey construction site slip and fall accident, consult a knowledgeable lawyer for help navigating the worker’s compensation process or filing a civil claim.

How Do Slip and Fall Accidents Happen on a Construction Site?

Employers are tasked with providing a safe work environment. However, employees should be aware of the primary causes of slip and fall accidents to avoid them.

Some of the most common causes of slip-and-fall accidents at New Jersey construction sites include wet surfaces, loose boards or temporary walkways that can shift, uneven surfaces, and construction site debris.

Slip and fall incidents are not just accidents where an employee slips and falls on the same level. They can also happen when the fall is from a different height, resulting in more severe injuries.

What is Worker’s Compensation?

Employers with one or more employees must carry worker’s compensation insurance. The state-mandated coverage is designed to compensate the injured for medical expenses and lost wages. Benefits are also available for permanent partial or total disability and death.

Injured parties should notify their employer of the accident as soon as possible. Although employees have up to 90 days, the sooner the accident is reported — ideally within 30 days of the accident occuring — the sooner the process begins.

The insurance company investigates the accident and determines compensation. Sometimes, the process does not go as intended. There are delays, denials, and disputes. Mediation and litigation can lengthen the negotiations in New Jersey, which is where a construction site slip-and-fall accident lawyer plays a key role.

Juggling worker’s compensation claims while trying to heal can be difficult. Our experienced attorneys help navigate the claims process while ensuring the worker’s rights are protected.

Steps to Take After an Injury at Work

Always seek medical attention. Even if the injuries appear minor, have a medical professional make that assessment since some injuries may not be apparent immediately after an accident. Medical documentation can help support a claim and potentially identify injuries that will not show symptoms for days.

After seeking medical attention:

  • Notify supervisors or managers as soon as it happens. Complete a formal accident report and submit it through official channels to establish the form as potential evidence.
  • Keep a record of all medical treatments, medications, and therapies. If injuries prevent employees from working, they should also keep track of the days or hours missed. Saving receipts for other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident can support compensation requests.
  • Take pictures of where the accident occurred and any equipment involved. If government or state agencies investigated the incident, request copies of their reports. Ask coworkers witnessing the accident for their contact information in case corroborating evidence is needed.

Finally, always consult an attorney. A lawyer with experience in construction site slip and fall accidents in New Jersey can help with formal statements and negotiate the best possible outcomes. Never assume that a minor injury does not merit medical and legal advice.

Contact a Lawyer in New Jersey After a Construction Site Slip and Fall Accident

Garces, Grabler, & LeBrocq is an experienced law firm with knowledgeable attorneys who can advise anyone involved in New Jersey construction site slip-and-fall accidents on their rights and the compensation they can seek. Your lawyer can relieve the stress that comes with a work-related injury by negotiating with insurance providers, collecting documentation, and calculating compensation, giving you the time you need to heal and the opportunity to get the justice you deserve. Call today.