Construction Accident Attorney in Colorado

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    Construction plays a vital role in Colorado’s growth, but not without risk to workers and community members. According to the Department of Labor and Employment, the construction industry has the second-highest fatality rate of any occupational group in the state. And the danger isn’t limited to employees. Bystanders and visitors near a construction site could also suffer catastrophic injuries if something goes wrong.  

    Anyone injured in a Colorado construction accident may be able to recover compensation for their injuries, either through a workers’ compensation claim or a third-party lawsuit. If you’ve been hurt, consult a construction accident lawyer immediately. 

    Earl & Earl, PLLC is a trusted personal injury law firm with offices throughout Colorado. Our legal team can identify and pursue every source of compensation for you after a construction accident. Call or contact us today to speak with one of our attorneys for free.  

    What is a Construction Accident in Colorado?

    A construction accident is an incident that occurs on the site of a construction-related project. Construction zones are often home to heavy, large, and hazardous materials that can cause severe injuries when mishandled. Accidents can also occur while removing waste or debris, constructing scaffolds or trenches, loading or unloading equipment, operating heavy machinery, and demolishing or assembling structures. 

    Visit a Construction Accident Lawyer near you

    Most construction accident cases involve an injured worker. However, a construction mishap could also harm visitors, non-construction workers, and bystanders passing through or near worksites.  

    Construction accident victims often suffer serious injuries that require extensive medical care and time away from work. The high cost of medical treatment, combined with lost wages, can lead to immense stress and financial hardships. Fortunately, Colorado law allows victims to seek compensation for their losses. Your options will depend on the facts of your case, so speaking to an experienced attorney is essential.

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    Common Types of Construction Accidents

    Construction zones are busy areas with no shortage of ways for someone to get hurt. Common types of accidents include:
    • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
    • Spinal cord injury and paralysis
    • Deep cuts and lacerations
    • Broken bones
    • Burns
    • Blunt force trauma
    • Internal organ damage
    • Internal bleeding
    • Respiratory problems
    • Nerve damage
    • Eye and ear injuries
    • Hearing loss
    • Blindness
    • Crush injuries
    • Amputation
    • Disfigurement 
    • Occupational illnesses, such as mesothelioma 

    Does my Construction Injury Fall Under Workers’ Compensation?

    Colorado employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance if they have more than one employee, with few exceptions. Workers are considered employees unless they can be proven otherwise. 

    The construction industry, in particular, is subject to additional insurance requirements. If you are a Colorado construction worker, you can probably receive workers’ comp benefits. 

    Colorado workers’ compensation benefits cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages for qualifying employees. They are considered no-fault benefits, which means they are available to eligible employees regardless of who caused the accident. However, workers’ comp benefits may be reduced or denied if a worker is injured due to intoxication or willful misconduct.

    Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Construction Accident?

    Workers’ comp benefits are usually an exclusive remedy, meaning injured workers give up the right to sue their employers in exchange for coverage. However, there are some key exceptions. 

    If you believe your employer harmed you intentionally, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Similarly, no restrictions prevent you from filing lawsuits against third parties, such as property owners, equipment manufacturers, or others who are not your employer or anyone employed by them. 

    If you are a non-employee who suffered injuries in a construction site accident in Colorado, you have the right to sue any party whose negligence contributed to your injuries. Surviving family members of those who die in construction accidents may have grounds for wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of their loved ones.

    How Do I Prove Negligence in a Construction Site Accident Claim?

    To have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit after a Colorado construction accident, you must prove that someone else’s negligence contributed to your injuries. In other words, you must show that the party who hurt you caused the accident and that you suffered injuries as a result. Proving negligence requires strong evidence, such as:

    • Physical evidence  Damaged hard hats, torn clothing, or defective PPE can all be powerful physical evidence of what went wrong on the construction site.
    • Photos and video footage  Photos of the accident scene or video footage of the accident occurring in real-time show the exact nature of the incident and its aftermath.
    • Accident reports  Police accident reports, workplace injury reports, and other formal reports often provide essential details about the event.
    • Eyewitness statements  Statements from coworkers, supervisors, or other eyewitnesses with no stake in your claim can be valuable, unbiased resources.
    • Expert witness testimony Expert witnesses like physicians and accident reconstruction specialists can provide professional insight into the causes and effects of the event.

    What Types of Compensation Can I Receive for my Injuries?

    If you file a workers’ compensation claim, you could receive benefits to cover necessary medical care and a portion of your lost wages. However, if you are eligible to file a lawsuit, you could receive additional compensation for:

    • Medical bills
    • Incidental expenses, such as mileage costs for medical travel
    • The full value of your lost wages
    • Reduced earning capacity 
    • Pain and suffering

    How Can a Construction Accident Attorney in Colorado Help Me

    At Earl & Earl, PLLC, our Colorado construction accident lawyers can investigate your accident and prepare a solid legal case for you. Whether you need help applying for workers’ compensation, appealing a denial, or filing a negligence claim, our legal team will work relentlessly to maximize your compensation so you can focus on your health. Contact us today for a free case review. 

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