Caught-in/between accidents are a common hazard in the construction industry. They happen when a worker gets stuck, squeezed, or crushed by equipment, materials, or collapsing structures. These incidents can result in serious injuries. By knowing the risks and taking precautions, both workers and employers can help reduce the chances of these accidents occurring.
Common Injuries Resulting From Caught-in/Between Accidents
Caught-in/between accidents can lead to a wide range of devastating injuries on construction sites. Some of the most common include:
- Crushed limbs or severe fractures leading to amputation
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in partial or full paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Head and brain trauma, including concussions and skull fractures
- Cuts or lacerations that can become infected or leave lasting scars
- Nerve damage causing loss of sensation or chronic pain
If you or a loved one has been harmed in this way, speaking with a Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options.
Recovering Compensation After a Caught-in/Between Accidents
If you were injured in a caught-in/between accident at work, you may be entitled to compensation through workers’ compensation or, in some cases, a personal injury claim. The type of claim depends on the circumstances surrounding your accident and who may be responsible.
Workers’ Compensation Claim
Workers’ compensation generally covers injuries that happen while you are on the job. This means if your caught-in/between accident occurred during work hours and was caused by your job duties, your employer’s insurance should cover your medical expenses and some of your lost wages.
One major benefit of workers’ comp is that it does not require proving fault, so even if the accident wasn’t caused by employer negligence, you could still receive benefits. If you are pursuing a worker’s compensation claim, reach out to our workers’ compensation attorney today.
Personal Injury Claim
A personal injury claim might be an option if a third party, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, was responsible for your injury. In personal injury claims, you can seek additional damages on top of what you could get from a workers’ compensation claim. This includes pain and suffering and emotional distress damages.
However, in a personal injury lawsuit, you must show that someone acted negligently or that something was defective. For instance, if defective machinery from an outside manufacturer caused your injury, you might pursue a personal injury case against that manufacturer.
Recovering compensation after a caught-in/between accident depends on the circumstances of your case, so it is important to understand your rights and explore all options.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Caught-in/Between Accidents
An experienced work injury lawyer in Los Angeles can provide valuable guidance and support after a caught-in/between accident. They can help you understand your options and work to make the process less overwhelming. Here’s what they can do:
- A lawyer will review your case, gathering evidence such as medical records, accident reports, maintenance records, and witness statements to build a strong claim.
- They can negotiate with insurance companies to help ensure you receive fair compensation.
- If needed, they can represent you in court, presenting your case to seek the compensation you deserve.
- Lawyers can also identify if a third party is responsible for your injuries and advise whether a personal injury claim is a valid option.
- Along the way, they can answer your questions and provide regular updates, ensuring you stay informed throughout the process.
Having legal support can make navigating your claim less stressful and improve your chances of recovering the compensation you need to move forward. For help with an accident in the workplace, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.