Construction work ranks among the most hazardous occupations in New Jersey and across the United States. The complex nature of construction sites, coupled with the physical demands of the work, leads to a higher incidence of workplace accidents. When these unfortunate events occur, securing skilled legal representation is crucial.
The New Jersey personal injury lawyers with Stark & Stark provide legal guidance, helping injured workers or their families navigate the complexities of construction accident claims to secure the compensation they deserve. Contact us online or call (800) 535-3425 to schedule your free consultation.
Stark & Stark is a leading construction injury firm in New Jersey
Our firm is well-established in New Jersey, with extensive knowledge of local laws and a strong presence in county courts throughout the state. Our construction injury attorneys specialize in construction accident cases, leveraging a deep understanding of New Jersey’s legal landscape to handle all aspects of the construction injury claim – both the third-party investigation and litigation and the workers’ compensation claim – in one coordinated team effort unique to Stark & Stark, P.C.
Stark & Stark distinguishes itself through a robust combination of experience, personalized legal strategies, and a commitment to achieving the best outcomes for our clients. Our firm boasts a track record of significant verdicts and settlements in construction accident cases, underpinned by testimonials from clients who have benefited from our advocacy. We approach each case with a tailored strategy and an unwavering focus on you, the injured worker.
We get results in construction accident cases
- $4,677,840 recovered for a construction worker injured on a job site in Sussex County, NJ.
- $3,250,000 recovered for construction worker injured in a scaffolding collapse in Trenton, NJ.
- $3,050,000 recovered for construction worker injured on a job site in Trenton, NJ.
- $2,025,000 recovered for construction worker seriously injured on the job in Middlesex County, NJ.
Stark & Stark works hard to recover maximum damages in your construction injury case
If you have been injured in a construction accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation depending on the specifics of your case and the nature of your injuries. These damages may help cover your accident’s immediate and long-term financial, physical, and emotional impacts.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the damages you may be entitled to.
Workers’ compensation benefits
Most construction workers in New Jersey are covered by workers’ compensation insurance, which provides several key benefits:
- Medical benefits: Covers all necessary and reasonable medical treatment, prescriptions, and hospital services related to the work injury.
- Temporary total disability benefits (TTD): If you cannot work for more than seven days, TTD benefits are payable at 70% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set by law. These benefits continue until you return to work, reach maximum medical improvement, or exhaust the statutory maximum duration.
- Permanent partial disability benefits (PPD): If the injury leads to a permanent impairment but does not completely disable you from working, you may be eligible for PPD benefits. The amount depends on the type and severity of the permanent impairment.
- Permanent total disability benefits (PTD): If you cannot return to any type of employment, PTD benefits may be awarded. These benefits are initially provided for 450 weeks and may continue beyond if you can prove that you cannot earn wages.
- Death benefits: If a construction accident results in death, the worker’s dependents may receive death benefits, including funeral expenses up to a limit
Third-party liability claims
In cases where another party (not your employer) is responsible for the accident, such as general contractors, equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, or property owners, you might pursue a third-party liability claim. This may allow you to seek damages beyond what workers’ compensation provides, including:
- Medical costs: Compensation for medical treatments that might exceed the coverage of workers’ compensation.
- Lost wages and future earning capacity: Compensation for lost wages if you are temporarily unable to work and future earnings if your injuries permanently impact you.
- Pain and suffering: Unlike workers’ compensation, third-party claims may include damages for pain and suffering, which account for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injuries.
- Loss of consortium: Compensation for the impact of your injuries on your relationship with your spouse.
Our New Jersey accident lawyers are experienced with all kinds of construction injuries
Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, and the range of activities and machinery present may lead to serious injuries. Here are some of the most common types of injuries that occur on construction sites:
Falls
Falls are the leading cause of fatalities and injuries on construction sites. Workers may fall from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or into holes and other openings in the floor. These accidents often result in severe injuries such as:
- Fractures: Broken bones may occur from the impact of hitting the ground or another object.
- Spinal cord injuries: Falls may lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the area and severity of the spinal injury.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Falls may cause concussions or more severe brain injuries, which may have long-lasting effects on cognitive function.
Struck-by incidents
These occur when a moving object, including vehicles, falling tools, or dislodged materials, hits a worker. Injuries from struck-by incidents may include:
- Head injuries: Including TBIs or other serious head traumas.
- Internal injuries: Such as internal bleeding or organ damage.
- Contusions and lacerations: These vary in severity.
Caught-in/between
Caught-in/between accidents happen when a person is squeezed, caught, or crushed between two or more objects. These incidents are particularly dangerous and may result in:
- Crush injuries: Which may lead to amputations or severe trauma to body parts.
- Compartment syndrome: Where pressure within the muscles builds, causing a decrease in blood flow that may damage cells and tissue.
- Death: In the most severe cases, these incidents may be fatal.
Electrocutions
Electrocution is a significant hazard on construction sites, where exposed wires, wet conditions, and incomplete electrical systems may pose risks. Common injuries from electrocution include:
- Burns: Electrical burns may occur where the current enters and exits the body.
- Cardiac arrest: High voltage may disrupt the heart’s electrical activity, leading to sudden cardiac arrest.
- Nerve damage: The electrical current may cause acute or long-term damage to the nervous system.
Machinery accidents
Accidents involving machinery may occur due to malfunctions, misuse, or poor maintenance. Common machinery-related injuries include:
- Amputations: Fingers, toes, or limbs may be amputated by heavy machinery.
- Entanglement injuries: Clothing or limbs may get caught in machinery, leading to severe injuries or death.
- Blunt force trauma: Being hit by parts of machinery or by machinery itself may cause severe trauma.
Exposure to harmful substances
Construction workers often handle or are exposed to various harmful substances, which may lead to:
- Respiratory diseases: Such as asbestosis or silicosis from inhaling dust or fibers.
- Chemical burns: From direct contact with corrosive materials.
- Cancer: Long-term exposure to certain chemicals may increase the risk of cancer.
Overexertion and repetitive stress injuries
Physical labor on construction sites may lead to overexertion and repetitive stress injuries, such as:
- Musculoskeletal disorders: Such as back injuries, hernias, or knee and shoulder injuries.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation or irritation of a tendon.
- Heat stress: This may lead to heat stroke, heat exhaustion, or other heat-related illnesses.
New Jersey Senate Proposes New Law Related to Heat Stress
Bill S2422, introduced by Senator Joseph P. Cryan in the New Jersey Senate on January 29, 2024, aims to set a comprehensive heat stress standard and create a heat-related illness and injury prevention program through the Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
This legislation targets the significant health risks and fatalities caused by excessive heat in workplaces, particularly in the agriculture and construction sectors. It requires employers to implement protective measures such as monitoring heat exposure, providing water and shade, and developing emergency responses.
We’ll make sure you file your claim on time
In New Jersey, construction accident claims must typically be filed within two years from the date of the accident, as dictated by the state’s statute of limitations. Initiating legal proceedings within this timeframe is crucial to preserve the right to compensation.
Work with a top-rated construction injury law firm in New Jersey
If you or a loved one has been involved in a construction accident in New Jersey, do not navigate the aftermath alone. Contact Stark & Stark to schedule a free consultation with a knowledgeable New Jersey construction accident lawyer. Call us today at (800) 535-3425 or complete our online contact form. Let us help you secure the full compensation you deserve.
We answer common questions about construction injuries in New Jersey
What should I do immediately after a construction accident?
Immediately after an incident, seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Report the incident to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible, as this is a crucial step in the workers’ compensation process.
Can I sue my employer if I am injured on the construction site?
In most cases, New Jersey workers’ compensation law prevents employees from suing their employers. However, if your injury was caused by a third party or due to an employer’s intentional act, you might have grounds for a lawsuit.
What if I am an independent contractor?
Workers’ compensation insurance does not typically cover independent contractors. If you are an independent contractor injured on a construction site, you may have the right to file a lawsuit against the party at fault. Consulting with a New Jersey construction accident lawyer can clarify your legal options.
