Construction Accident Lawyers Fighting for You
Construction injury attorneys in New Jersey are legal professionals who specialize in handling cases related to injuries that occur within construction sites. These attorneys provide experience, guidance, and representation to individuals who have been injured in construction accidents. They are dedicated to ensuring that their clients receive the necessary legal support and compensation for their injuries, losses, and damages incurred during construction accidents.
Negligence in NJ Construction Injury Cases
Construction injury cases often involve the concept of negligence, which refers to the failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to harm or injury. This negligence can be attributed to different parties within the construction site environment, each having a specific responsibility
Construction Employer Negligence
One aspect of negligence pertains to construction employers and their duty to maintain safe working conditions for their employees. When construction employers neglect this responsibility, it can result in various hazards and accidents.
Instances of construction employer negligence include:
- Inadequate safety training and protocols, putting workers at risk
- Failing to provide proper safety equipment, leading to preventable injuries
- Ignoring the maintenance and repair of machinery and tools, causing potential malfunctions
- Lack of supervision and oversight, which can result in avoidable accidents
Onsite Negligence
Contractors and construction companies also bear responsibility for ensuring safety on the construction site. Onsite negligence involves actions or omissions that lead to harm for individuals outside the construction team. Examples of onsite negligence encompass:
- Accidents involving vehicles due to poor site management, leading to collisions with pedestrians or nearby drivers
- Hazards and debris not properly contained, posing risks to pedestrians and passerby
- Inadequate signage or warnings, increasing the likelihood of accidents
Types of Claims in Construction Injury Lawsuits
The nature of a construction injury lawsuit varies based on the specifics of the case. A construction worker injured on the job may be eligible for workers’ compensation, in addition to pursuing a personal injury settlement. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
For individuals, such as drivers, pedestrians and other passerby who are injured due to onsite negligence, there is the option to file a personal injury lawsuit against the construction company or contractor responsible. This lawsuit would typically be centered around claims of negligence, seeking compensation for injuries and damages sustained.
NJ Construction Lawsuit Timeline
The timeline of a construction injury lawsuit in New Jersey generally follows a sequence of stages. Depending on the specifics, and the experience of one’s legal team, a claim can take anywhere between a few months to years to reach its conclusion.
These stages include:
- Case Evaluation: Attorneys review the case’s merits and potential for compensation.
- Investigation: Gathering evidence, analyzing medical records, and identifying liable parties.
- Filing the Lawsuit: Drafting legal documents and officially initiating the lawsuit.
- Discovery: Exchanging information, statements, and evidence with the opposing party.
- Negotiation: Attempting to reach a settlement through discussions and negotiations.
- Trial: If a settlement isn’t reached, the case goes to court for trial proceedings.
- Resolution: The case concludes with a settlement or a court judgment.
Winning Construction Accident Attorneys on Your Side
Common Causes of NJ Construction Accidents
Construction sites are rife with potential hazards, leading to various types of injuries. Some of the most common construction injuries in New Jersey include:
- Scaffolding Injuries: Falls from poorly secured or malfunctioning scaffolding due to inadequate safety measures.
- Electrical Accidents: Electric shocks, burns, or electrocutions from exposed wiring, faulty equipment, or improper use of electrical tools.
- Falling Objects: Injuries caused by objects such as tools, materials, or debris falling from heights, often due to inadequate overhead protection.
- Machinery Accidents: Injuries stemming from improper use, lack of training, or machinery malfunctions, including injuries involving heavy equipment like cranes and forklifts.
- Slip and Trip Incidents: Falls due to slippery surfaces, uneven walkways, or poorly maintained floors, often leading to fractures, sprains, and head injuries.
- Trench and Excavation Accidents: Collapses or cave-ins within trenches or excavations, causing workers to be buried under soil or construction materials.
- Chemical Exposure: Injuries resulting from exposure to hazardous chemicals or toxic substances, leading to burns, respiratory issues, and long-term health complications.
- Fire and Explosions: Burns, smoke inhalation, and blast injuries caused by fires or explosions, which can occur due to improper storage of flammable materials or inadequate safety protocols.
- Crush Injuries: Resulting from getting caught between heavy machinery, vehicles, or collapsing structures, often leading to severe internal injuries and fractures.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries: Overuse injuries caused by performing the same physical tasks repeatedly, such as lifting, bending, or carrying heavy objects.
- Heat-Related Illnesses: Heat exhaustion and heatstroke due to working in high temperatures, inadequate hydration, and lack of proper breaks.
NJ Construction Accident Settlements
Construction accident settlements are influenced by multiple factors, including the extent of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term effects. These settlements aim to cover current and future financial losses.
It’s important to note that each case’s circumstances are unique, and an accurate settlement estimate requires a thorough assessment by legal professionals with expertise in construction injury claims.
How NJ Construction Attorneys are Paid
NJ construction attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that clients are not required to pay any upfront fees. Instead, attorneys are compensated with a portion of the settlement only if the case is won. This arrangement ensures that clients can access legal representation without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses.
Example Settlement Amount from a NJ Construction Lawsuit
Jane, a construction worker in Newark, New Jersey fell 15 feet while working on a scaffold. A support beam unexpectedly collapsed due to poor maintenance, resulting in severe injuries including a broken leg, fractured arm, and head trauma. She required extensive medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation to recover. She decided to sue the construction company for negligence, as the accident occurred due to the company’s failure to properly inspect and maintain the scaffold.
After a thorough investigation, negotiations, and legal proceedings, Jane’s case was resolved through a settlement. The construction company’s insurance agreed to pay her $2,000,000 in compensation. This settlement covered her medical expenses, ongoing treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, trauma, and other related costs.
*This story is true. Names, events and details have been changed to ensure the privacy of our clients. This case is presented for illustrative purposes only and does not reflect actual events. The outcome of any legal case depends on numerous factors, including the specifics of the case, applicable laws, evidence, and the legal representation involved. Settlement values can vary significantly. It is essential to consult a qualified construction accident attorney to obtain an accurate estimation of the potential value of your case based on your individual circumstances.
How NJ Construction Attorneys are Paid
NJ construction attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that clients are not required to pay any upfront fees. Instead, attorneys are compensated with a portion of the settlement only if the case is won. This arrangement ensures that clients can access legal representation without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses.
Before Filing a Construction Injury Lawsuit
Individuals looking to strengthen their construction injury lawsuit can take certain steps:
- Document Injuries: Maintain thorough records of injuries, medical treatments, and expenses.
- Gather Evidence: Collect photographs, witness statements, and other relevant evidence.
- Preserve the Scene: Preserve the construction site environment as closely as possible after the accident.
A skilled construction injury attorney is also able to complete these steps for you, which is recommended to ensure a comprehensive approach to building a strong case.
Our construction accident attorneys are eager to hear your story and begin the work of helping you receive the benefits that you deserve. We have offices conveniently located in Middletown, Newburgh, Spring Valley, Poughkeepsie, Monticello, Manhattan (Inwood) and the Bronx. However, if you are too injured to make it into one of our offices, we will come to you.
Free Consultations for NJ Victims of Construction Accidents
For victims of construction accidents in New Jersey, many attorneys offer free consultations. During this consultation, attorneys evaluate the case’s merits, provide initial guidance, and discuss potential legal strategies. This consultation serves as an opportunity for individuals to understand their rights, options, and the possible course of action.
Call 855-468-7626, or reach out online to book your free consultation, and discover the value of your case.
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Have You Been
Injured?
The very first thing you should do is seek treatment by a medical professional, and be sure mention all the areas of pain or injury. Second: call Sobo & Sobo to secure your rights.
You likely have a personal injury if: (1) you were in an accident that was not entirely your fault, and (2) you sustained an injury from the accident.
The Sobo & Sobo “No Fee Guarantee” puts in writing that there is never a charge unless the firm wins money for the client.
No-Fault refers to the legal system that requires the insurance company for the vehicle that you are occupying to pay for certain benefits such as medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. New York, for example, has a no-fault law that requires the insurance company for the vehicle you occupy to pay benefits even if that vehicle did not cause the accident.
There are different statute of limitations in New York, and exceptions that can add additional time. While every case is different, the statute of limitations in New York for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident.
