Construction sites present significant risks to both workers and passers-by, from hazardous chemicals and power tools to large construction vehicles and industrial machinery. These hazards can cause severe injuries if an accident occurs, and many people injured in construction suffer long-term or permanent health effects. Some people never work again after a construction accident, which jeopardizes their financial future and can create many other problems.
The Yakima construction accident lawyers at Tamaki Law can protect your rights and help you secure reasonable compensation for your injuries. Our construction accident attorneys in Yakima have more than 100 years of combined experience and a proven history of successful results for our clients. We will make the legal process as painless as possible and take the time to understand your specific needs. Call us today at Tamaki Law or visit our contact page for a free case review.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents in Yakima
Some of the most common causes of Yakima, WA, construction accidents include:
- Falls from heights: Falls from heights are one of the leading causes of construction accidents in Yakima. Workers may fall from scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops if they are not adequately secured or lack proper fall protection equipment. In many cases, falls from heights result in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Electrocution: Construction workers in Yakima can sustain severe injuries if they come into contact with live electrical wires or faulty equipment. Electrocution can cause severe electrical burns, organ damage, and death.
- Struck-by accidents: Struck-by accidents occur when workers collide with heavy machinery, falling objects, or vehicles. These accidents can be especially dangerous if workers strike large or heavy equipment.
- Caught-in/between accidents: Caught-in/between accidents occur when workers are caught in between two heavy objects or in machinery. These accidents can cause severe injuries, including amputations and crush injuries.
- Hazardous materials: Construction workers in Yakima are sometimes exposed to hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead, and chemicals. Exposure to these materials can cause long-term health effects, such as cancer and respiratory illnesses.
- Heavy equipment accidents: Construction workers may operate or work near heavy equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators. Accidents involving heavy equipment can be deadly or cause severe injuries.
- Inadequate safety training: Inadequate safety training is a common cause of construction accidents in Yakima. Workers who are not properly trained in operating equipment, handling hazardous materials, or working at heights are at a higher risk of accidents.
- Faulty equipment: Faulty or defective equipment can also cause construction accidents in Yakima. This can include tools, machinery, and safety equipment that fails to perform as intended.
What to Do After a Yakima, WA, Construction Accident:
If you’ve sustained injuries in a construction accident in Yakima, there are several steps you should take to protect your legal rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the accident to your employer.
- Gather as much evidence as possible, including photographs and witness statements.
- Contact an experienced construction accident attorney in Yakima as soon as possible.
Who’s Liable for a Construction Accident in Yakima?
Determining liability in a construction accident can be complex, and multiple parties may be responsible. Possible liable parties may include the construction company, the property owner, equipment manufacturers, and other contractors on the job site. An experienced construction accident attorney can help you identify all potentially liable parties and build a strong case to recover the compensation you deserve.
Compensation for Construction Accident Injuries
Your potential compensation after a construction accident depends on how the accident happened, whether you were working at a construction site or simply passing by, the extent of your injuries, and other factors. Injured construction workers can file a workers’ compensation claim to recover compensation for any medical expenses related to the crash, a portion of their lost wages while they heal, and (in certain circumstances) permanent disability benefits. However, workers’ compensation does not cover losses like pain and suffering, damaged personal property, etc.
It’s also possible to file a personal injury claim after a construction accident and recover additional compensation for your losses. However, you can only file a personal injury claim if you meet one of the following criteria:
- You were an employee working at a construction site and someone other than your employer or a coworker caused the accident
- You are an independent contractor who does not qualify for workers’ compensation.
- You sustained your injuries while passing by a construction site and were not working at the site.
A personal injury claim allows you to seek compensation beyond what workers’ compensation covers, which may include money for:
- The full value of your lost wages
- Your physical pain
- Your emotional distress
- Your diminished quality of life
- Your damaged personal property
- Punitive damages, in certain circumstances
How Our Yakima, WA, Construction Accident Attorneys Can Help You
Our experienced construction accident attorneys in Yakima are here to help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve. We understand how overwhelming and stressful this time can be, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights. Our attorneys will:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence: The first step in recovering compensation for a construction accident is to investigate the accident and gather evidence. This may include taking photographs of the accident scene, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing medical records.
- Identify all liable parties: A construction accident attorney can help you identify all parties that may be liable for your injuries. This can include the construction company, property owners, equipment manufacturers, and other contractors on the job site.
- Negotiate with insurance companies and other parties: After identifying all liable parties, a construction accident attorney can negotiate with insurance companies and other parties to secure a fair settlement. Insurance companies may offer a low settlement amount, but an attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Take your case to trial if necessary: If negotiations fail, a construction accident attorney can take your case to trial. An experienced attorney can present a compelling case in court and fight for your right to fair compensation.
In addition to these services, a construction accident attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. This can include answering your questions, keeping you informed of your case’s progress, and advocating for your rights.
Contact Our Yakima, WA, Construction Accident Lawyers Now:
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in Yakima, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact our experienced construction accident attorneys in Yakima today to schedule a free consultation. Our legal team will listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide the guidance and support you need to get back on your feet.
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