Demolition work is inherently dangerous. As with many construction jobs, demolition work requires constant attention to what you are doing. If not, you could seriously injure yourself or someone else. If someone else does not pay attention, they could hurt you.
While demolition work is dangerous, you can take steps to protect yourself from work-related injuries. Even with all the protection and training provided, you may still get injured and may not know where to turn next. Speak with a lawyer about your legal options and how you may qualify for Workers’ Compensation benefits.
Working in demolition, you will face numerous types of dangers. The dangers you face can be deadly, from other workers to falling from a height. When working in demolition, you are constantly exposed to hazardous materials, such as:
- Asbestos
- Concrete
- Wood
- Asphalt
- Gypsum
- Different metals
- Glass
- Plastic
Beyond that, you could also be injured from:
- Changes in the structure of the building during demolition.
- Unapproved modifications which occurred before demolition.
- Materials hidden in the walls that become exposed during demolition.
- Hazards from the demolition process itself.
Depending on the type of demolition work you do and what kind of building or structure you are demoing, the injuries you face could range from minor to life-altering and deadly.
Workers’ Compensation
Most employers in New Jersey are required to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance coverage. This type of no-fault insurance covers injured workers for injuries suffered while in the course of employment. Workers’ Compensation benefits will cover a portion of lost income and medical bills.
Depending on the severity of your injuries, your medical bills could be astronomical. They could place a severe financial burden on you, especially considering you may not be able to work and get a paycheck. If you cannot work, you will be unable to cover your regular expenses, making for a more stressful experience.
To get benefits, you will need to file a claim quickly. Immediately following your accident, you will need to alert your employer about the incident so they can alert their insurance provider. Because you are dealing with an insurance company, this may not be as simple a process as you hope.
The insurance company may say that you were partially at fault for the accident which caused your injuries and use that to reduce the amount of your claim. They may also suggest that you were not working at the time of the accident. There are many excuses they may try to make to avoid paying out the total value of your claim.
Personal Injury Claim
Workers’ Compensation shields your employer from liability. You can, however, file a lawsuit against a third party. Because demolition work often occurs on construction sites where workers from multiple companies gather, it is entirely possible that an employee of another company caused your injuries. If this is the case, you could attempt to collect additional compensation.
While a lawsuit may be the last thing on your mind after suffering serious demolition-related injuries, it can help you avoid financial hardship by providing additional money. Damages in a third-party liability claim include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of life enjoyment
- Rehabilitation costs
Getting this additional compensation may help you avoid financial hardship. When you file a personal injury claim, the insurance company representing them will fight you. They will try to settle your claim fast and cheaply.
They may call you just days after your accident when you are still in the hospital. The insurance company representative may offer you a quick settlement saying that it is only good today and that they cannot go any higher. Without overthinking how much your recovery will cost, you may be tempted to accept the offer.
You will be stuck with whatever amount of money they provide if you do. That means, months or years later when you still have expenses related to this accident, you will not be able to go back to the insurance company and ask for more money. You will waive your right to bring any future claims against them for this accident. To help you avoid this tragic situation, speak with a lawyer.
New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Kotlar, Hernandez & Cohen, LLC Can Help You Get the Benefits You Need After a Demolition Accident
When you work in demolition, you know your work is dangerous. If you have been injured at work and need help with your claim, speak with one of our experienced New Jersey Workers’ Compensation lawyers at Kotlar, Hernandez & Cohen, LLC. Call us at 856-751-7676 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation and to learn more. Located in Mount Laurel, Cherry Hill, Trenton, Vineland, New Jersey, and Trevose, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
