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Construction Accident Lawyer Houston

Houston is a thriving city that is constantly growing. Everywhere you look, new buildings are popping up, all thanks to its hard-working construction crews. Unfortunately, construction accidents in Houston are common, even though employers have a duty to keep employees and members of the public safe.

Approximately one thousand construction workers tragically lose their lives in accidents yearly, while thousands more suffer serious injuries. Interestingly, construction-related incidents account for 20% of occupational fatalities in the United States, despite the fact that construction workers represent a mere 6% of the nation’s workforce.

Unfortunately, many construction companies cut corners in order to try and save money, and by doing so, they put their contractors at risk. They often expect construction workers to work for long hours or in unsafe conditions, heightening the risk of injury and even fatality.

Some of the most common construction accidents involve forklifts and other heavy equipment, eye injuries, and back injuries. These incidents can cause catastrophic injuries and leave workers and their families struggling financially, especially if the victim is left unable to work.

If you have been injured in a construction accident, it is essential that you speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Construction companies have large legal teams on their side and will do whatever it takes to limit their liability. With an experienced work injury attorney, you level the playing field and help the truth come to light.

Seek a Free Consultation With a Houston Construction Accident Lawyer at Abraham Watkins Today

At Abraham Watkins, we’ve been representing personal injury victims in Texas for more than seven decades, making us one of the longest-serving law firms in the state. During this time, we have built up a stellar reputation which means that insurance companies are more likely to offer you a fair settlement quickly rather than risk losing more in court. We will gather evidence and investigate your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to court if necessary to fight for what you are owed.

We believe that everyone who was injured due to the negligent actions of another deserves access to high-quality legal representation without an upfront cost. That is why we work on a no-win, no-fee basis and offer a free consultation. We only get paid a percentage of your claim only if your case is successful. We promise no hidden fees and will provide unparalleled dedication and resources.

Do not hesitate to contact us today and speak to one of our Houston construction accident lawyers in a free consultation. Call now at 713-535-9319.

Workers Compensation Vs. Personal Injury Lawsuit

Many employers have workers’ compensation insurance which helps cover damages if an employee is injured. Most injured construction workers are entitled to work as compensation benefits, and to claim these benefits, it is not necessary to prove fault.

However, after a serious construction site accident, workers’ compensation may be insufficient to cover your damages, in which case you may need to file a personal injury claim against your employer.

While worker’s compensation may compensate you for your medical expenses and lost wages up to the policy limits, they will not cover you for non-economic damages such as your emotional anguish, emotional suffering, pain and suffering, and permanent disfigurement.

When you contact Abraham Watkins for a free consultation, we will explore all of your options. A skilled construction accident attorney will advise you on your next steps based on your specific circumstances. We offer this free consultation at no obligation, so you do not need to continue with representation if you choose not to. If you decide to continue with representation, we will work quickly to investigate your claim and protect your rights to full compensation.

How Do Construction Accidents Happen?

Even with the advances in safety equipment and training, many workers remain vulnerable to serious injury. Accidents can happen on construction sites for many reasons. However, the most common cause is falls, which comprise about one-third of all construction site fatalities. Some causes of falls include unstable ladders or lack of fall protection. Other serious injuries are caused by:

  • Falling objects;
  • Exposure to dangerous materials or chemicals such as asbestos or lead;
  • Faulty equipment;
  • Heavy machinery such as lifts or cranes;
  • Becoming crushed or trapped between objects;
  • Burns or electrocution because of hazards such as exposed wires, electrical fires, and chemical spills.

Common Construction Site Injuries

The most common construction accident injuries are back injuries. Back injuries can take many years or even many years to heal, and some people will be left with issues for the rest of their lives. Other serious and life-long injuries can include traumatic brain injuries and eye injuries.

These injuries are almost always preventable and usually caused by negligent employers who fail to implement the proper safety measures such as safety nets, guard rails, hard hats, and harnesses. Another common cause is improper training or improper maintenance of construction equipment.

Who is At-Fault For Construction Site Accidents?

All employers owe their employees a duty of care, which means they must take appropriate measures to ensure their safety. This duty of care is especially important when it comes to construction sites where there are many hazards, such as heights and heavy machinery. Strict safety measures must be adhered to, including equipment maintenance, proper training, and compliance with strict industry standards and safety protocols.

If a construction worker is injured on a construction site, their employer is likely to be liable for their damages. However, it is also possible for a third party to be liable, such as a machine manufacturer, coworker, construction site owners, maintenance companies, or architects.

In order to determine liability, an experienced construction accident attorney will gather evidence and investigate your case. They will explore all possible at-fault parties. Sometimes more than one party may be at fault, and your attorney may need to negotiate for compensation from more than one source to ensure you receive what you deserve.

How to Communicate With Insurance Companies After a Construction Accident in Houston

Many people mistakenly believe that insurance companies are on their side when they are, in fact, driven by profit. Their primary aim is to minimize the amount they pay out to victims like you, which often results in them using underhanded and deceptive tactics. Therefore, when communicating with an insurance company, provide them with as little information as possible. You may only need to tell them that an accident occurred where it happened.

It is important that you do not give out your social security number to an insurance company or allow them to record you before getting the advice of a personal injury attorney.

Once you have representation from an attorney, they will take over all negotiations on your behalf, so you won’t have to worry about doing anything that could harm your claim. You will also be protected by the attorney-client relationship, meaning everything you tell them is entirely confidential. Therefore you can be completely honest with your attorney; they will use this information to navigate your case in the best way possible.

What Should I Do After a Construction Site Accident in Houston?

If you’re reading this article soon after the accident, it is helpful to know of certain steps you can follow that will help protect your right to compensation. However, if the accident happened some time ago and you did not follow these steps, that does not mean you don’t have a claim. The best thing you can do is call an experienced construction accident lawyer offering a free consultation as soon as possible.

Prioritize Safety

Ensure your safety and the safety of others by moving away from potential hazards and warning them about the dangers. If you are trained in first aid, provide immediate assistance to injured parties. If you are not trained, try taking care not to worsen injuries. To prevent further accidents or injuries, cord off the area and take steps to stabilize hazardous conditions.

Call Emergency Services

Call the emergency services to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary. Be prepared to provide the location and details about the incident and any injuries sustained. If there are any electrical, fire, or chemical hazards, the fire department will also be necessary to mitigate any risk.

Notify Supervisors

Inform your supervisor or site manager about the accident, providing details about what happened, any injuries, and the steps you have taken so far.

Document the Scene

Take photographs or videos of the accident scene if safe to do so. Record details about the incident, such as the date, location, weather conditions, and any appropriate equipment or tools involved.

You should also ask any witnesses for their names and contact information so that your attorney can seek a witness statement from them later if necessary.

Seek Medical Attention

If you weren’t attended to by paramedics on-site and taken to a hospital, it is crucial to seek medical care as soon as possible. A medical report serves as valuable evidence for your claim.

Following a workplace injury, adrenaline levels may rise, potentially masking the severity of your injuries. A thorough examination by a medical professional can safeguard your health and well-being.

Report the Accident

Depending on the severity of the accident, it may need to be reported to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or another relevant agency. Ensure that all required reports are filed in a timely manner.

If your employer has workers’ compensation insurance, you must submit a formal accident report within 30 days. Failure to do so relieves your employer of the responsibility to provide workers’ compensation benefits. However, you should act quickly rather than wait for the deadline, as delays may cast doubt on your claim’s validity.

Speak to an Experienced Houston Construction Accident Lawyer

Once you have taken steps to ensure your safety, consulting with an attorney is crucial. It’s essential to do this as quickly as possible so they can provide guidance on the most effective measures to increase your chances of securing fair compensation. They will also inform you about your legal rights so you know exactly where you stand.

Losing a Loved One in a Construction Accident in Houston

Losing a loved one in a construction accident is a devastating and traumatic experience, and the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming for the family left behind. If you have lost a family member in a construction accident, it is essential to understand your legal rights and options for seeking justice and compensation.

At Abraham Watkins, we have helped countless families secure compensation through wrongful death claims. We understand how emotionally challenging these cases are, and we will take over the entire legal process so you can focus on being with your family. While no amount of money can heal your grief, it can ensure that you are not left financially struggling due to somebody else’s negligence. You deserve justice, and you should not be left in financial hardship after the wrongful death of a loved one.

 

Construction Accident Lawyer Houston FAQ

Do I have to see a specific doctor for treatment?

Exercise caution if your employer’s insurance company suggests a specific doctor, particularly before filing a workers’ compensation claim. The physician’s testimony significantly impacts the outcome of your claim, and both your employer and their insurer may aim to minimize the compensation you receive. However, seeking treatment from a doctor or hospital outside your approved network without proper authorization may result in denied payment, leaving you responsible for the expenses.

The most effective approach is to be truthful, as the doctor may search for inconsistencies. Accurately describing your injuries and their impact on your life makes it difficult for them to discredit you.

Can you file both a workers’ compensation and personal injury claim?

Though rare, it is possible to file worker’s compensation and a personal injury claim after a construction accident. The best thing you can do is speak to an experienced construction accident lawyer who can explore your options and determine the best way to proceed with your case.

How much does representation from a construction accident lawyer cost?

At Abraham Watkins, we operate on a “no win, no fee” basis, which means that clients are not required to pay any upfront fees or costs for legal representation. Instead, the firm’s payment is contingent upon successfully obtaining compensation through a settlement or a favorable verdict in court.

In a “no win, no fee” arrangement, also known as a contingency fee agreement, the attorney’s fees are calculated as a percentage of the compensation awarded. If the case is unsuccessful and no compensation is obtained, you owe nothing to the attorney for their legal services. This approach allows you to pursue legal action without the financial burden of paying attorney fees upfront.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a construction accident?

The statute of limitations after a construction accident in Texas is two years. If you do not file a claim within two years, you may lose your right to compensation. If you are claiming on behalf of the wrongful death of a loved one, then you have two years from the date of their death. However, claims for workers’ compensation benefits have very short time limits. Therefore you need to act quickly.

Regardless of your situation, you should seek help from an attorney as soon as possible so they have plenty of time to gather evidence and build a robust case.

Contact Abraham Watkins Today – One of the Longest Serving Law Firms in Texas

If you have been involved in a construction accident, it is essential to contact Abraham Watkins for assistance. With seven decades of experience serving personal injury victims, our team is well-equipped to provide you with the legal representation and guidance you need. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand your rights and options.

Our attorneys at Abraham Watkins deeply understand the complexities of construction accident cases and are dedicated to pursuing justice for those who have been injured. By working on a no-win, no-fee basis, we ensure that you can seek legal representation without financial strain. Call us today at 713-535-9319 for a free consultation with one of our construction accident attorneys.

Free Consultation

We offer a free consultation to prospective clients. If you have been injured and wish to speak to one of our attorneys in a no-cost consultation, please call us at (713) 222-7211. or toll free at 713-222-7211

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