Jersey City Construction Accident Lawyers

Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces. Heavy machinery, elevated structures, hazardous materials, and the constant presence of multiple contractors all increase the likelihood of serious accidents. When an injury occurs on the job, construction workers have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits under the law. Here at Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawlor, P.A., our seasoned Jersey City workers’ compensation lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide range of construction accident claims, and we stand ready to fight for the benefits you deserve. Contact us today so we can get started working on your case.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

Construction accidents can occur in many different ways, but the most common causes of construction accidents that our firm sees are as follows:

• Falls from ladders, scaffolding or rooftops
• Slips and trips caused by debris or uneven surfaces
• Being struck by falling objects
• Electrical accidents, such as electrocution from exposed wiring
• Crane, forklift or heavy machinery accidents
• Trench collapses or cave-ins
• Fires, explosions, and chemical exposure
• Inadequate safety training or lack of protective gear
• Unsafe scaffolding
• Overexertion and repetitive strain injuries
• Transportation accidents
• Defective equipment or machinery malfunctions

What to Do if You’re Injured in a Construction Accident

If you are hurt while working at a construction site, taking the right steps immediately can make a major difference in your ability to obtain benefits. If possible, try and take the following steps:

1. Report the accident to your employer right away. You are required under the law to notify your employer promptly.
2. Seek medical treatment. Your employer or their insurance carrier typically has the right to choose the treating doctor. Go to the approved medical provider unless it is an emergency situation.
3. Document the incident by writing down what happened, getting witness contact information, and taking photographs or videos of the site.
4. Keep records, such as medical bills, accident reports, and correspondence with your employer or the insurance company.
5. Follow medical advice and ensure you attend all appointments.
6. Hire a team of seasoned Jersey City workers’ compensation lawyers who can effectively represent your interests and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover in New Jersey?

Workers’ compensation in New Jersey provides injured workers with several important benefits, which are as follows:

• Medical benefits: All reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your injury must be covered, including doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, and more.
• Temporary disability benefits: If you are unable to work for more than seven days, you may receive payments equal to 70% of your average weekly wage, subject to state minimum and maximum limits.
• Permanent disability benefits: If your injury results in lasting impairment, you may qualify for partial or total permanent disability benefits, depending on the extent of the disability.
• Death benefits: If a worker is killed in a construction accident, dependents may receive weekly payments and funeral expenses.

How Long Do I Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

In New Jersey, you are required to notify your employer of your injury within 90 days of the accident. That said, it’s always best to report the incident as soon as possible–preferably the same day it occurred.

From there, you must file a formal claim with the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation within two years of the date of the injury or the last payment of compensation, whichever is later.

What if Someone Other Than My Employer Was at Fault?

Not every construction accident is caused by an employer’s negligence. Sometimes, a third party, such as a subcontractor, property owner, manufacturer, or equipment supplier, shares responsibility. In these cases, you may be entitled to file a third-party personal injury claim in addition to receiving workers’ compensation benefits. This type of claim can provide financial recovery for losses that workers’ compensation does not cover, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and full wage replacement rather than the capped percentage allowed by statute.

For example, if a defective power tool malfunctioned, the manufacturer might be held liable. If an unsafe worksite condition was created by another contractor, that company could be responsible. Or, if a delivery driver’s carelessness caused your injury, you may pursue a claim against that driver and their employer. Each of these situations requires a careful investigation to identify all sources of liability and preserve critical evidence before it disappears.

At Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawlor, P.A., we routinely handle third-party construction accident cases alongside workers’ compensation claims to maximize our clients’ recovery. Our firm works tirelessly to ensure that every responsible party is held accountable for the harm they caused.

Contact Our New Jersey Construction Accident Lawyers

After a construction injury, your ability to work and support your family may be at stake, but our seasoned Jersey City construction accident lawyers are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawlor, P.A. for a free initial consultation today.