Construction sites are inherently dangerous places. From heavy machinery to towering scaffolds and hazardous materials, workers face significant risks daily. In North Carolina, construction accidents are a leading cause of workplace injuries, often leaving victims with severe injuries and financial hardships. If you’re a construction worker injured on the job in Durham, understanding your rights to workers’ compensation is critical.
Common Construction Site Accidents
Construction sites are rife with potential hazards.
Some of the most common accidents include:
- Falls: Workers can fall from ladders, scaffolds, or other elevated surfaces, often resulting in serious injuries like fractures, spinal damage, or traumatic brain injuries.
- Struck-by Accidents: These occur when workers are hit by falling tools, building materials, or moving equipment.
- Electrocutions: Contact with live wires or faulty electrical systems can cause severe burns, nerve damage, or even death.
- Caught-In/Between Accidents: These happen when workers are caught in collapsing structures, machinery, or between heavy objects.
No matter the type of accident, injuries sustained on construction sites often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
Workers’ Compensation in North Carolina
North Carolina’s workers’ compensation system provides benefits to employees injured on the job, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
These benefits are designed to cover:
- Medical Expenses: All necessary treatment, including surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Two-thirds of your average weekly wages during the time you’re unable to work.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: Compensation if your injury results in a permanent disability, such as the loss of a limb or reduced mobility.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Support to help you transition to a different job if you’re unable to return to your previous position.
It’s important to report your injury to your employer immediately, as delaying could jeopardize your claim. In North Carolina, you have 30 days to notify your employer and two years to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Challenges in Workers’ Compensation Claims
While workers’ compensation is intended to be a no-fault system, securing benefits can sometimes be challenging.
Employers or their insurance companies may:
- Dispute the severity of your injuries.
- Claim that your injury wasn’t work-related.
- Delay or deny benefits without sufficient explanation.
These tactics can be frustrating and overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover. That’s where experienced legal representation can make a difference.
How Kornbluth Ginsberg Law Group, PA Can Help
At Kornbluth Ginsberg Law Group, PA, we understand the complexities of workers’ compensation claims in North Carolina. Our dedicated attorneys are committed to helping injured construction workers secure the benefits they deserve.
We can:
- Investigate the circumstances of your accident.
- Gather evidence to support your claim.
- Represent you in negotiations with insurance companies.
- Advocate for your rights in hearings or appeals if necessary.
Don’t Face This Alone
A construction site injury can upend your life, but you don’t have to navigate the workers’ compensation process alone. At Kornbluth Ginsberg Law Group, PA, we’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact us today or call us 24/7 at 919-980-9895 for a free consultation.
