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Construction Accident Claims: What Injured Workers Should Know

Construction jobs come with serious risks. One wrong move or a faulty tool can lead to serious injury. After an accident, many workers feel confused about what to do next. Some think reporting it is enough, while others stay quiet, hoping to heal and move on.


However, the steps you take right after getting hurt matter a lot. You need to act fast, gather proof, and protect your rights. In places like New York City, where construction is booming, and regulations can be complex, knowing your rights is especially important.


Therefore, this article breaks down what every injured worker should know. It's not just about paperwork; it's about getting the care, support, and money you deserve without losing time or making mistakes.


Read on to know more!


1. Report the Injury Right Away — and Get It in Writing

As soon as the injury happens, don't wait, inform your boss or site manager. Not tomorrow or later, but right now. Plus, make sure it's written down. Ask for a copy of the report, too. This paper proves when and how you got hurt. Without it, your claim can be denied.


Even if you feel okay at first, report it anyway. Some injuries show up later. A written report helps your case stay strong. Don't let fear or pressure stop you; your health and rights come first. And if someone refuses to write it down, talk to a lawyer.

2. Get Legal Help Before Signing Anything

You may get calls, letters, and offers to settle. Don't sign anything yet. Insurance companies may try to pay you less or nothing at all. They may ask you to say things on the record. These tricks can hurt your case. Therefore, it is suggested to get in touch with a lawyer with years of experience.


construction accident lawyer in New York City knows how to handle such situations and will tell you what's safe to sign and what's not. Look for a professional with proven results and dedicated to community leadership. This makes sure that your lawyer isn't doing it as a job but as a responsibility towards you and society.


They'll protect you from giving up your rights. In New York, construction injury claims can be big. Don't risk losing money or care. Even one short call with a lawyer can help you stay in control.

3. Keep Track of All Your Medical Care

After your injury, you must immediately visit the doctor. Follow every instruction and keep all bills, notes, and prescriptions with you. Write down how you feel each day, even if it's junk journaling, don't hesitate. Are you in pain? Can you walk, lift, or sleep? 


Your records show how serious your injury is, helping you prove your case. Don't skip visits or delay treatment. That can hurt your claim. The more proof you have, the more it helps your lawyer or the court understand what you're going through. Stay organized; it can make a big difference.

4. Don't Assume You have One Compensation Option

Many workers think workers' compensation is the only way to get help. That's not always true. If someone besides your employer caused the accident — like a subcontractor or an equipment company — you may have a second claim.


They may cover things workers' compensation doesn't, like pain or long-term loss. A lawyer can help figure this out. For example, under Labor Law 240, if fall protection is missing and a worker is hurt, owners and contractors are strictly liable — no need to prove negligence.


On the other hand, Labour Law Section 200 establishes a general duty for employers, contractors, and property owners to maintain a safe work environment. Don't assume you only have one option. It's a better choice to get advice before making a move.


5. Find Out If Safety Rules Were Ignored on Site

Not all injuries are just "bad luck." Some happen because safety was ignored. Maybe guards were missing, workers weren't trained, or the tools were broken. These things matter a lot. If rules were broken, it could help your case. A lawyer can check for violations, like broken OSHA rules or unsafe conditions.


These can show that someone else was careless. That proof makes your claim stronger. So speak up, take photos if you can, and ask questions. Don't assume the site was safe. In New York, rules are strict, and if someone cuts corners, they should be held accountable.

Conclusion

Construction work is risky. However, coming to the correct assistance after an injury should not be another risky event. In New York, injured workers do deserve full support, not support at a minimum. Do not wait, or guess, or just hope it works itself out. Take action right away. It is in your hands to protect your health, your job, and your future.


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