Construction Accident Lawyer Boston
Working in the construction industry poses substantial health and safety risks. The presence of large, powerful machinery and equipment, exposed power lines, and other issues can all dramatically increase the possibility of serious construction accidents. Whether they occur as a result of unsafe premises, faulty equipment, or the negligence of construction site managers, construction accidents have the potential to dramatically change the lives of workers. Additionally, when these sites are unsafe, they can pose significant risks to any passersby.
Construction accidents routinely result in serious injuries, including paralysis and brain damage, the treatment and management of which may carry substantial costs. Unfortunately, as our team of construction accident lawyers in Boston at Crowe & Harris, LLP is well aware, many construction workers and innocent passersby are forced to deal with these serious consequences due to someone else’s error. For this reason, those injured in construction may need to pursue compensation, whether workers’ compensation or personal injury compensation, in order to get the help they need.
Hurt in a construction accident in Boston? Dial (617) 404-3417 or reach out to us online today to discuss your legal options with our team of attorneys.
On This Page:
- Causes and Results of Construction Site Accidents
- Why Choose Crowe & Harris, LLP?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact a Construction Site Accident Lawyer in Boston
Causes and Results of Construction Site Accidents
Construction site accidents may have a number of different causes and result in a wide array of devastating injuries or illnesses. Some of the most common causes and results of construction accidents include:
Other serious construction site risks include:
Amputations
Construction sites are, unfortunately, fraught with dangers for passerby and workers alike. In some construction site accidents, such as those involving heavy machinery, the accident could potentially remove a victim’s limb or cause such severe damage that an amputation must be performed. In incidents involving amputations, victims are facing not only the loss of one or more limbs, but they also must face the reality that their lives will never be the same.
Amputations not only impact physical abilities but also affect emotional well-being and financial stability. Victims often require extensive rehabilitation, prosthetics, and ongoing medical care, placing a substantial financial burden on them and their families. The psychological impact can also be profound, with many experiencing depression, anxiety, and difficulty adjusting to a new way of life.
Exposure to Toxic Substances
Although toxic substance exposure may occur less frequently than other construction accidents, the potential for hurting construction workers and innocent people alike can be more far-reaching. There are many ways exposure to toxic substances can happen on a construction site:
- Failure to quarantine toxic chemicals
- Chemical explosions or fires
- Failure to provide protective gear or equipment
- Chemical spills
- Failure to find toxic chemicals in demolished materials
These accidents or instances of neglect could put an innocent person at risk of being exposed to toxic substances in or near a construction site. Chronic exposure can lead to long-term health issues, including respiratory diseases, chronic skin conditions, and even cancer. It is crucial for construction site managers to implement strict safety protocols to minimize the risk of exposure and protect workers and the public.
Head and Brain Injuries
A head or brain injury is one of the most serious damages a person can sustain, as harm to the brain can easily affect one’s everyday ability to function. There are many dangers at construction sites that may result in a head and brain injury. Some common causes of these injuries include:
- Falling objects
- Falling from height / slip and fall accidents
- Scaffolding collapse
- Misuse / abuse of equipment
- Negligent construction site management
- Failure to provide protective headgear
- Vehicle crashes
All of these situations could mean serious head injuries and potential brain damage for the construction workers involved. Some temporary or permanent effects of these injuries are memory loss, decreased communicative skills, or limited motor skills. Brain injuries can affect every aspect of life, requiring long-term medical care, therapy, and potentially altering a person's ability to work or maintain relationships. Early intervention and comprehensive medical treatment are essential for maximizing recovery outcomes.
Slip and Fall
In order to protect workers and pedestrians from serious accidents, construction sites must be secured properly by keeping walkways clear and hazardous wiring covered. Unfortunately, these and other necessary precautions are not always taken, which make workers and passersby vulnerable to slip and fall accidents. As the attorneys at Crowe & Harris, LLP know, these accidents can cause innocent people to sustain injuries that have long-lasting consequences.
When ensuring the safety of a worksite, the following potential hazards should be secured:
- Open manholes: These must be clearly marked and covered to prevent accidents.
- Uncovered wiring across walkways: Proper insulation and securing of wiring are critical to avoid tripping hazards and potential electrocution risks.
- Spilled water / wet walking surfaces: Immediate clean-up and warning signs are necessary to prevent slips.
- Scaffolding problems: Regular inspections and maintenance can prevent collapses or unstable structures.
- Walkway obstructions: Clear markings and removal of debris are vital to maintaining safe passage for all.
All of these circumstances make a slip and fall accident on a construction site more likely, and if you are hurt in such an accident, our attorneys are ready to advocate for your rights. Prompt action following a slip and fall incident can significantly improve the chances of a successful resolution, both medically and legally.
When a construction worker or passerby is affected by these and other construction accidents or consequences, they often face difficulty recovering, as they battle lengthy physical recovery, medical bills, and lost wages. Seeking guidance from experienced legal professionals can make a crucial difference in the journey to regaining physical and financial health.
Why Choose Crowe & Harris, LLP as Your Construction Accident Lawyer in Boston?
At Crowe & Harris, LLP, we put the weight of our whole team behind each client we serve. When you choose our firm, you are enlisting the combined resources of our whole legal team, and your case is a priority to us. No matter how big or small your claim is, we will fully devote ourselves to it. Your satisfaction is what matters to us. Located in the heart of Boston, we represent clients in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and throughout Massachusetts. No other New England construction accident attorneys are as committed as we are to righting the wrongs inflicted on our clients, no matter how difficult the case.
Our strategic approach involves assembling a dedicated team of professionals, including attorneys with specific construction law knowledge, paralegals who specialize in case preparation, and consultants who provide valuable insights into site safety standards and accident reconstruction. This ensures that each case benefits from well-rounded expertise, enabling us to anticipate challenges and creatively address any obstacles that arise during the legal process.
A construction accident can change your life in an instant — but you don’t have to handle the aftermath on your own. At Crowe & Harris, LLP, we’ve recovered millions for injured workers and families across Massachusetts. Call (617) 404-3417 or contact our Boston construction accident lawyers for a free, no-obligation case review and the justice you deserve.
Understanding Boston Construction Laws & Regulations
Boston is a dynamic hub of construction activity, with numerous projects shaping its skyline. However, these developments come with stringent laws and regulations aimed at ensuring safety and compliance on construction sites. The Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) is pivotal in overseeing worker safety. Contractors must adhere to detailed safety codes, and any violations can lead to substantial penalties and liabilities. Understanding these regulations is crucial for anyone involved in construction. When breaches lead to accidents, affected individuals have a right to seek redress through Boston's legal system. Our firm, Crowe & Harris, LLP, is adept at navigating these complex legal waters, ensuring our clients are well-informed of their rights and potential remedies.
Moreover, Massachusetts mandates comprehensive safety measures through its public regulatory bodies. Construction sites must conduct regular safety audits, and site managers are tasked with ensuring proper worker training. Boston's construction industry also faces unique challenges due to its harsh winters and historical architecture, necessitating additional precautionary measures. For workers injured due to regulatory breaches, understanding these nuances can be pivotal for successful claims. At Crowe & Harris, LLP, we prioritize educating our clients on how these local dynamics impact their situations, and we are committed to securing the justice they deserve.
The Importance of Timely Legal Action with a Construction Accident Attorney
In the aftermath of a construction accident, timing can significantly affect the outcome. Massachusetts has specific statutes of limitations that dictate how long victims have to pursue legal action following an injury. For personal injury claims, this typically means filing within three years from the date of the accident. Despite this window, initiating the process promptly has several benefits. It allows for the preservation of evidence, the timely interviewing of witnesses, and ensures compliance with procedural requirements. By acting swiftly, victims can significantly enhance their chances for a favorable resolution.
At Crowe & Harris, LLP, we understand that pursuing a claim can be daunting, especially for those focused on recovering from their injuries. Our role is to alleviate this burden by guiding clients through the initial stages, helping them understand the critical timelines, and advocating vigorously on their behalf. Our extensive experience in handling construction accident claims in Boston means we are well-versed in gathering the necessary documentation and constructing a robust strategy tailored to each client's situation. By taking prompt and informed action, affected individuals can focus on rehabilitation while we handle the complexities of the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accidents
What should I do immediately after a construction accident?
After a construction accident, prompt action is vital for your safety and legal standing. First, seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor, as some effects may not be immediately apparent. Then, report the incident to your supervisor and document the details of the accident, including time, location, and conditions. If possible, gather evidence such as photographs and contact information of any witnesses. Early documentation can be crucial in establishing the facts of your case. It's advisable to consult with a construction accident attorney as soon as possible to explore your options and ensure your rights are protected.
Our team at Crowe & Harris, LLP is committed to guiding you through these initial steps and ensuring you receive the appropriate legal advice from the outset. Our priority is to provide peace of mind during the challenging aftermath of an accident.
How does Massachusetts workers' compensation affect my claim?
Massachusetts workers' compensation laws provide benefits for medical expenses and a portion of lost wages to employees injured on the job. However, these benefits may not cover the full extent of your damages, such as pain and suffering or long-term disability impacts. Workers' compensation also typically precludes suing your employer directly, but legal avenues may exist against third parties, such as equipment manufacturers or other contractors whose actions contributed to the accident. Understanding the interplay between workers' compensation and personal injury claims is crucial for maximizing recovery. Our experienced attorneys at Crowe & Harris, LLP can analyze your situation to identify potential compensation sources beyond the standard workers' comp benefits.
Are there common defenses used in construction accident cases?
In construction accident claims, several defenses may be utilized by the opposing party. Common defenses include asserting that the plaintiff was at fault, the injury is not as severe as claimed, or the accident was caused by an unforeseeable event. It's necessary to prepare thoroughly to counter these defenses by gathering robust evidence and expert testimony. At Crowe & Harris, LLP, our team proactively anticipates potential defenses and strategically builds your claim to withstand such challenges, leveraging our formidable negotiation skills and court experience to aim for the best possible outcome for our clients.
What role do site inspections play in legal proceedings?
Site inspections are a critical component of construction accident investigations. They help determine whether safety violations or hazardous conditions contributed to an accident. Detailed inspections can uncover violations of OSHA regulations or local safety codes, which can be pivotal for establishing liability. This process entails reviewing safety logs, maintenance records, and witnessing testimonials. Comprehensive inspections are invaluable in corroborating your account and clarifying the circumstances surrounding your injury. At Crowe & Harris, LLP, our dedication to meticulous evidence gathering, including thorough site inspections, is key to constructing a compelling legal argument in support of your rights.
How do Boston's construction trends impact accident rates?
Boston's construction boom, driven by urban expansion and redevelopment, has directly influenced the frequency of construction accidents. The surge in high-rise buildings and infrastructure projects has heightened the demand for construction workers, often leading to increased pressure and potentially compromised safety practices. Moreover, the city's distinctive blend of new and historical architecture presents unique site challenges, sometimes contributing to site-specific hazards. As activity continues to soar, it’s critical for workers and contractors to remain vigilant and committed to maintaining safety standards. By understanding these regional dynamics, our attorneys at Crowe & Harris, LLP are adept at addressing the specific factors that influence construction-related incidents, ensuring we provide comprehensive legal support catered to Boston’s evolving construction landscape.
Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer Near Me in Boston
If you have been injured as the result of a construction accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills and other costs. Though getting the compensation you need can be difficult on your own, with the help of our legal team at Crowe & Harris, LLP, you can more easily navigate the legal process and focus on recovering while we work for you.
