Overcoming the devastating impact of a workplace accident is never easy. In some cases, such a dramatic incident disrupts the normal balance of an entire family. Quite often, work-related injuries, illnesses and fatalities trigger unimaginable pain and suffering, but also considerable unpredictable financial loss in the form of medical bills, lost wages and even serious legal complications that a worker could never cope with on his/her own, without the expert guidance ensured by a competent accident lawyer.
Facts about workplace accidents that you should know
- In theory, one would imagine that if he/she were to get hurt on the job, it would be easy to file a lawsuit and obtain the right compensation. Unfortunately, it is never that simple and most people who have been in this position agree with the fact that navigating the legal system without any support from a workplace accident attorney is a real hassle.
- According to a recent report issued by United States Department of Labor, more than 4,900 workers lost their lives on the job only in 2011. This means that 13 people died every day, while trying to complete their regular assignments. The same source indicates that most of the deaths have been recorded in the construction sector (17.6%). Most of the victims fall from a considerable height, are struck by a sharp object, are electrocuted or get caught between/in the heavy machinery that they are usually operating. These are the most frequent causes of death, generically entitled “the fatal 4” of the construction sector. While it is true that a few simple measures of precaution, like wearing the standard PPE (personal protection equipment) can easily minimize the odds of getting hurt on the job, it’s no secret that most work-related accidents can’t be prevented and generate pain, confusion and chaos for millions of American families every single year.
How can an attorney help?
For people involved in work-related accidents, it is extremely important to benefit from the unconditional support of a competent, experienced workplace accident attorney. A lawyer will offer them a free, no-obligation consultation, in order to discover and analyze the unique particularities of their case. No two workplace accidents are alike; this is why the victim will need professional assistance to obtain maximum compensation for their injuries. First of all, the attorney will help the worker gather important documents (hospital bills, pictures reflecting the extent of injury, medical records and so on). The benefits that you are entitled to, as a victim of a work-related accident, are usually ensured by your insurance company. In most cases, you won’t be able to sue your employer; even so, you might still be able to file a lawsuit against a third party, like for instance the manufacturing company producing the faulty equipment responsible for your injuries.
Unfortunately, insurance companies will often try to provide a minimum amount of money which barely covers your medical bills. However, a skilled accident lawyer could easily help you recover after a work-place accident, by enabling you to receive the proper compensations, even if the insurance company initially declines your claim, for one reason or another.