CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS IN COLUMBUS, OHIO

There are few jobs more dangerous than construction. With power tools, scaffolding soaring high into the air, heavy machinery, chemicals, and heavy machinery, construction workers face an array of on-the-job hazards. When strict safety regulations are not followed, disaster can result — leaving workers seriously injured, permanently disabled or even killed. When workplace accidents happen on construction sites in Central Ohio, E. Ray Critchett can help. We are skilled at handling workers’ compensation claims, and will aggressively pursue your right to benefits.  

Common Construction Accidents

While workplace accidents can happen anywhere, they are incredibly common in the construction industry. Twenty percent of all workplace deaths occur on construction sites, with the most common accidents involving falls, electrocution, being hit by an object or being crushed between objects or machinery.  

Many of these accidents are a direct result of a company’s failure to follow safety rules. The federal government requires contractors and other employers to follow specific rules under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). Ohio also provides additional requirements under its workplace safety laws, which require employers to provide a safe workplace for employees and those who frequent job sites. Unfortunately, despite these strict rules, some employers fail to follow the rules, leading to serious accidents. Safety violations such as improper ventilation or respiratory protection, inadequate fall protection, scaffolding failures and poor training can result in devastating injuries.  

If you have been injured at a construction site, there are two options for recovering for your injuries. Most cases must be filed through the Ohio Workers’ Compensation System. But if the accident was a result of the negligence of a third party (someone other than your employer or a co-worker), you may be able to file a lawsuit against the responsible party to recover additional compensation.

Ohio Workers’ Compensation Claims

Employees who are injured on the job are entitled to compensation through the workers’ compensation system.  Employers must pay into this system, which functions like an insurance program. If an employee is hurt on the job, workers’ compensation may provide benefits such as medical treatment and payment for lost wages.  An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can evaluate your case to determine whether you have a valid claim — and can make sure that your case is filed properly and on time. In Ohio, claims are handled through the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.  Claims can be filed by the injured worker, the employer or a medical professional.

After a workers’ compensation claim has been filed, you will receive an identification card and additional information about the next steps in the case. You may be required to provide additional information, such as documentation about your medical care, treatment, and diagnosis as well as about your inability to work. Other parties will likely be required to submit information as well; your treating physician will have to fill out specialized forms about your ability to work and restrictions on your work, and your employer will have to verify that the injury did occur.  

Workers’ compensation is a complicated process, involving substantial amounts of paperwork, and filing deadlines. Your claim may be wrongly denied, and you may need to file an appeal to ensure that you are covered for your losses. It is usually a good idea to have a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer to represent you. Although you are not required to have an attorney, both your employer and the insurance company will be represented by a claims adjuster and/or an attorney if there is a dispute about your claim. If you have been hurt in a work-related injury, the attorneys of E. Ray Critchett, LLC can guide you through the process, advising you on your case and protecting your right to receive benefits.