Sarasota Construction Accident Lawyer
The construction site is a dynamic, constantly moving environment that encompasses multiple crews, massive equipment, and many other dangerous conditions. Statistics compiled by the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation reveal the extreme nature of the hazards, as there are more than 6,400 claims filed every year related to construction accidents. When an employee is injured in such an incident, the implications are extensive and affect entire families.
You do have rights under Florida workers’ comp laws if you were hurt in a construction accident, but the process for filing a claim can be complex. When all you want to do is recover and get back to work, you can count on our team at Barbas, Nuñez, Sanders, Butler & Hovsepian, Attorneys and Counselors at Law to handle the legal burdens. Please contact our office to schedule a free case evaluation with a Sarasota construction accident lawyer. Some basic information may also be helpful.
Construction Accidents and Florida Workers’ Comp Laws
When you were injured in a work-related incident, including a construction accident, your legal remedies stem from state workers’ compensation laws. You don’t need to prove that your employer was at fault, but you do need to provide proper notice and file a claim with your employer’s workers’ comp insurance company. If you qualify and the insurer approves your construction accident claim, you may be entitled to such benefits as:
- Coverage for your medical costs;
- A portion of your lost wages, if you miss work because of your injuries;
- Total or partial disability, on a permanent or temporary basis;
- Vocational training; and,
- Death benefits, for surviving family members of a victim who died in a construction accident.
Our attorneys at Barbas, Nuñez, Sanders, Butler & Hovsepian can assist with the workers’ comp process, as you may encounter obstacles in dealing with your employer’s insurance company. Insurers are always looking for reasons to deny claims, since payouts affect their bottom line. If necessary, we’ll take your claim to the next level to ensure you get proper benefits.
Exceptions to Workers’ Comp as a Sole Remedy
In most construction accidents, workers’ comp is your exclusive remedy. You cannot file a personal injury lawsuit in court, and you’re unable to seek damages for your pain and suffering. There are three key exceptions to this rule, so you CAN pursue non-economic damages in court if:
- Your employer doesn’t carry workers’ comp insurance in violation of the law;
- Intentional conduct was the cause of the construction accident; or,
- A third party was responsible for the incident, such as another crew that present on the work site.
Discuss Your Options with a Sarasota Construction Accident Lawyer
Your life could be turned upside down if you’re injured in a construction accident, but it may provide some sense of relief to know that you have rights under Florida’s workers’ comp system. If you have questions about your options, please contact Barbas, Nuñez, Sanders, Butler & Hovsepian, Attorneys and Counselors at Law. You can set up a no-cost consultation with a member of our team by calling our Sarasota office at 800.227.2275 or checking us out online.