Construction sites are inherently risky because dangerous equipment, falls, falling objects and unsafe working conditions can all lead to serious injuries in an instant.
When such an incident happens, you may face more than just pain. Medical bills can pile up, you may be unable to work and you may be uncertain about how to recover compensation.
What to do after a construction site accident
What you do in the hours and days after an accident can directly affect whether you recover compensation. Keep these steps in mind:
- Seek medical care: Some injuries, like internal trauma or soft-tissue damage, may not be obvious right away. A prompt medical evaluation creates a documented link between the accident and your injury, which insurers and courts rely on heavily. Follow your provider’s treatment plan afterward and keep every bill, appointment record and note about missed workdays. Together, these records can establish the true cost of your injury.
- Document the scene: If it is safe, take pictures or videos of the hazardous condition before anyone fixes it. Note the date, time and location of the accident, and get the names of any witnesses who saw what happened. Keep photos, witness contact information, medical records and any written communication with your employer or its insurer in one place and leave them unaltered. This evidence forms the foundation of any claim you pursue.
- Report your injury to your employer: Under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, you generally must notify your employer no later than 120 days after your injury or after realizing that your injury was work-related. If you fail to provide notice during this period, you may lose your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Additionally, you have to notify your employer during the first 21 days because waiting longer may limit the benefits you can receive for the period before you provide notice. An exception may apply if your employer already had actual knowledge of the injury during the 120-day period.
After reporting the injury, keep a copy of the notice and any related communication with your employer. You should also document how the injury affects your ability to work and follow any medical restrictions or recommendations.
Take steps to protect your rights
It is important to know what steps you need to take after a construction site accident and what types of compensation you may be able to recover. A Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney can review the circumstances of your accident, help you understand your options and determine whether workers’ compensation benefits or a third-party claim may apply.