Phoenix Construction Accidents: When Workers’ Compensation Isn’t Enough

Construction sites are teeming with activity. When different tradesmen from different companies are all on a job site at the same time over the period of maybe a year, accidents are going to happen. It’s the severity of the resulting injuries that comes to issue, and there are many times when workers’ compensation benefits just aren’t enough. That’s why we recommend that you speak with an experienced construction injury lawyer from our offices. We might be able to obtain compensation for you that goes far beyond what Arizona workers’ compensation laws allow.

When Injuries are Caused by Another Company
Depending on the facts surrounding your injury, workers’ compensation benefits may or may not be your sole and exclusive remedy. If you were injured in an accident that was caused by an employee of another company on the same job site that you were on, you’re not restricted to workers’ compensation benefits alone. Arizona law allows you to bring an actual personal injury claim or lawsuit against that person and his or her employer. For example, a steelworker from one company might be seriously injured as a result of the negligence of an employee of another company. The steelworker can claim workers’ compensation benefits at the same time that a civil personal injury lawsuit is brought against the other company. Here are some other examples of cases when third parties have been held liable for injuries.

  • Negligent design of safety devices, equipment or tools.
  • Motor vehicle accidents caused by employees of other companies.
  • Getting hit by a falling object that was dropped by an employee of another company.
  • Electrocution as the result of the negligence of an employee of an electrical contractor.
  • Exposure to toxic chemicals.

Damages
Workers’ compensation benefits are generally limited to medical bills, lost earnings and any permanent partial disability. In a court of law, far broader damages are considered. Those might consist of things like pain and suffering and loss of a normal life. Additional damages that are allowed in a civil court might go far beyond what a workers’ compensation claim might bring.

If you were seriously injured on a construction site in or around Phoenix as a result of the negligence of an employee of another company, contact us as soon as possible to arrange for a free consultation and case evaluation. Just call us, or use our online contact form, and we’ll discuss your full range of legal options.

«

»