Construction injuries are a scary reality for many workers

Working in the construction industry can be very rewarding, especially if you are someone who prides him- or herself on a hard day’s work. Unfortunately, construction work is also very dangerous. Construction injuries are not at all uncommon, and you risk being involved in a serious accident just by showing up to work.

It does not matter what type of construction site you work on. Maybe you typically work on major commercial developments, or instead perform smaller construction projects for homeowners. Either way, you need to be aware of the dangers and aftermath of construction accidents.

Common construction accidents

There are many different regulations and requirements that are supposed to protect you at work. Accidents can happen in even the safest environment, though. Some of the most common types of construction accidents include:

• Falls from scaffolds
• Being hit by falling objects
• Electrocutions

It is important to remember that not all injuries are the result of one-time, catastrophic accidents. For example, construction workers are frequently exposed to hazardous chemicals or substances, such as asbestos, that can over time lead to serious illness. Repetitive movements or frequent lifting of heavy objects can also cause harm over time.

What happens after a construction accident?

The first and most important step to take after being involved in a construction accident is to get medical help for your injuries. Your health is more important than anything else, so make it your priority. The next step is to notify your employer and possibly the construction site manager in as timely a manner as possible. Be sure to make a note of who you notified, the date, and his or position.

It can also be helpful to collect contact information for your co-workers who witnessed or were otherwise involved in the accident. It is not uncommon for employers or insurance companies to try to shift blame for injuries, so having help on your side is a good idea. You can also try to preserve evidence of the accident site to the best of your ability by taking pictures or hanging onto equipment, PPE or tools that were involved.

What next?

Suffering a serious injury is physically, emotionally and financially draining. Although it can be hard, the most important thing you need to focus on is your recovery. Doing that can be hard without the right financial support.

In North Carolina, the workers’ compensation system provides temporary benefits to workers injured on the job. Those who have suffered construction injuries and are dealing with medical bills on top of lost wages often find that these temporary benefits play a key role in their overall recovery. Denied claims are not uncommon though, so it may be worthwhile to explore the option of having a knowledgeable professional help review your initial application.