Dedicated Rhode Island Construction Site Injury Attorneys
The Providence construction site injury attorneys at Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell understand the serious nature of construction accidents. If you’ve been injured on a construction site, finding a skilled Providence construction site accident lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and securing just compensation. Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell is here to help.
When you are injured in a construction accident, understanding your rights and the complexities of Rhode Island law is essential. You may have several options for seeking compensation, but without legal assistance, it can be very difficult to determine which route is best. During your FREE consultation at our Providence office, we will review your claim, discuss your rights, and help you choose the best path forward.
To schedule your FREE and confidential consultation with one of our construction site injury attorneys, call Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell at (401) 273-8330 today. Located in Providence, we serve Woonsocket, Central Fall, and all surrounding areas of Rhode Island.
What Are the Most Common Types of Construction Accidents?
Construction sites offer several opportunities for serious injury. Some of the leading causes of construction accidents in Rhode Island are:
Falls from Heights
These accidents often occur due to faulty scaffolding, lack of guardrails, or inadequate fall protection systems. The consequences can range from broken bones to fatal injuries.
Electrical Shocks
Unprotected wiring, lack of proper grounding, and unsafe equipment are common causes of electrical shocks on construction sites.
Crane Accidents
These can occur when a crane collapses, drops a load, or comes into contact with electrical lines. Proper training and strict adherence to safety guidelines can help mitigate these risks.
Machinery Malfunctions
Faulty or poorly maintained machinery can lead to severe injuries, including amputations or crushing injuries.
Chemical Exposures
Workers can be exposed to harmful chemicals through leaks, spills, or inadequate safety equipment. Long-term exposure can result in chronic conditions.
Explosions and Fires
These are often due to flammable materials, faulty electrical systems, or unsafe practices involving explosive materials.
Struck-by Accidents
Falling objects, swinging equipment, or moving machinery can strike workers, resulting in injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Caught-in/between Accidents
These occur when workers are caught in or between equipment, structures, or materials. They are often fatal and are a focus of OSHA’s prevention efforts.
There can be numerous causes of construction site accidents—some of which open additional options for seeking compensation—making it important that you discuss your case with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. The Providence construction site accident attorneys at our firm welcome the opportunity to meet with you, listen to your story, and help you understand your rights and options.
What Are the Most Common Construction Site Injuries?
As with the different types of construction accidents, countless injuries can be sustained on construction sites. Some of the most common Include:
- Broken Bones
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Burns
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Eye Injuries
- Hearing Loss
Some construction site injuries are minor and can be dealt with on-site or through a few days of rest. Others can have far-reaching consequences, including medical expenses, an inability to work, and untold amounts of personal pain and suffering.
Seeking proper compensation following a construction site injury often requires knowing if a claim falls under workers’ comp or personal injury. Our construction site accident lawyers have decades of experience, enabling them to guide you toward the most effective ways to seek the compensation you are due.
A Closer Look at OSHA’s Most Commonly Cited Safety Violations
Construction sites offer several opportunities for injury. This is one of the primary reasons federal, state, and local authorities take such pains to regulate the industry. Sadly, oversight, inspections, and even the threat of fines and penalties are not enough to convince some outfits to adhere to some of the most basic safety protocols.
The most commonly cited safety violations by OSHA include:
- Hazard Communication. This violation occurs when there is a failure to adequately communicate the risks associated with hazardous chemicals or substances. Proper labels, safety data sheets, and training are essential for compliance.
- Respiratory Protection. Workers often face exposure to toxic substances that can be harmful when inhaled. Lack of proper respiratory protection is a frequent OSHA violation.
- Ladders. Faulty ladders or incorrect ladder usage can lead to dangerous falls. OSHA guidelines require regular inspection and correct positioning of ladders.
- Scaffolding. Poorly constructed or maintained scaffolding is another leading cause of fall accidents. Employers are required to regularly inspect scaffolding to ensure it meets safety standards.
- Lockout/Tagout. This involves the control of hazardous energy to prevent unexpected startup or release of stored energy during maintenance.
- Powered Industrial Trucks. Accidents involving forklifts or other industrial trucks often occur due to a lack of proper training or mechanical failures.
- Fall Protection – Training Requirements. Insufficient or incorrect training on fall protection systems can lead to accidents. Employers are required to provide adequate training to all employees who might be exposed to fall hazards.
- Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment – Eye and Face Protection. OSHA requires the use of appropriate face and eye protection when workers are exposed to eye or face hazards from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, or harmful light radiation.
- Machine Guarding. Machines with moving parts are required to have adequate guarding to protect workers from amputation, crush injuries, and other hazards.
These represent some of the most commonly cited issues on construction sites. There are countless other dangers, many of which result in severe or fatal injury. When our attorneys investigate construction accident injury claims, we take time to review all possible causes. This enables us to uncover all liable parties and assists in seeking the full compensation these injuries demand.
What Is the Difference Between Workers’ Compensation and a Personal Injury Claim?
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that employers are required to have to cover employees in the event of a work-related injury or illness. Under this system, if you are injured on the job, you are entitled to receive certain benefits that generally cover medical bills and a portion of your lost wages. It’s a no-fault system, meaning that you don’t have to prove that your employer was negligent to receive benefits. However, the scope of compensation is somewhat limited. Additionally, you cannot seek compensation for non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and physical pain.
On the other hand, a personal injury claim is a legal action taken against a third party. This could be a subcontractor whose negligence led to a hazardous work environment, an equipment manufacturer who provided faulty machinery, or another driver in a work-related auto accident.
In a personal injury claim, unlike workers’ compensation, you have the right to seek a broader range of damages. These can include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages aimed at punishing reckless or malicious behavior.
Establishing liability in a construction site accident often involves a complex legal process, requiring evidence gathering, expert testimony, and the potential of a trial. For these reasons, pursuing a personal injury claim can be more time-consuming and costly than filing for workers’ compensation—although the potential compensation is typically much more significant.
At Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell, our Providence construction site injury attorneys thoroughly investigate these accidents to properly establish liability. If one or more third party is responsible for your injury, we will collect the needed evidence to hold them accountable and take your claim as far as needed to help secure the maximum compensation you are owed.
How Much Compensation Can I Seek After a Construction Accident?
Following a construction site accident, you may be entitled to seek a variety of damages through a personal injury lawsuit. During your cost- and obligation-free consultation, we will carefully review your claim to help you determine all that you may be owed. This can include:
- Current and Future Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity
- Home Modifications and Adaptive Technologies
- Pain and Suffering
It’s worth noting that Rhode Island does not impose a cap on compensatory damages, allowing victims the possibility to recover the full extent of their calculated damages. However, be aware that there may be time limits on how long you have to file your claim. During your free consultation, we will review timelines to help you understand any limitations that may be in place.
Navigating the complexities of calculating damages requires a deep understanding of both the legal landscape and the specifics of your case. This is another reason why consulting a specialized construction accident lawyer can be invaluable in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
The Role of a Construction Accident Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a construction accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty. This is where the expertise of a Providence construction site injury attorney becomes invaluable. Services offered by an attorney include:
- Providing Legal Guidance
- Conducting a Thorough Investigation
- Calculating Damages
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies
- Representing You in Court
Ultimately, the goal of legal action is to secure the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. By hiring an experienced Providence construction site injury attorney, you’re taking the necessary steps to protect your rights and best interests.
Why Choose Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell
Choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your construction accident case. Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell has:
Decades of Experience
With a rich legacy spanning close to 50 years, our firm has honed the skills and gathered the resources necessary to tackle complex construction accident cases effectively. We bring extensive legal knowledge and experience to every case, ensuring that your claim is handled with the utmost care.
An Unmatched Track Record
Our firm boasts an unparalleled track record of successful verdicts and settlements. When you choose us, you’re aligning yourself with a firm known for securing significant compensation for their clients, giving you the confidence that your case is in capable hands.
Personalized Attention
Our commitment to maintaining a select caseload means that each client receives personalized, individual attention. At Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell, you’re not just a case number; you’re a valued client deserving of our full focus and resources.
Honesty, Empathy, and Professionalism
Our core values guide every interaction and decision from your initial consultation through the resolution of your case. We approach each case with genuine compassion, coupled with the steadfast pursuit of justice.
Comprehensive Case Building
Our firm is committed to thorough investigations and robust evidence collection. We collaborate with industry experts, obtain necessary documentation, and undertake whatever steps are necessary to build a compelling case on your behalf.
Contingency Fee Basis
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. This financial arrangement alleviates the stress of upfront legal fees, allowing you to focus on your recovery. You only pay for our services after we have secured a verdict or settlement in your favor.
When you are involved in a construction accident, two important steps to take are:
- Seek Medical Attention. You should see a doctor as soon as possible after a construction accident. Even if your injuries seem minor, you may need medical treatment.
- Report the Accident. You should notify your supervisor or employer about the accident as soon as possible.
Be sure to keep records of medical visits and all other expenses your injury has resulted in. These will serve as evidence for your case.
If you are moving forward with a personal injury claim, additional information, such as witness statements, may be needed. The construction injury lawyers at Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell can investigate your accident to gather this and pieces of evidence to support your claim.
When reporting the injury to your employer, provide written notice that includes details of how and when the injury occurred. Make sure to keep a copy for your records. This helps to ensure an official record of the injury is created, which can be important if you need to file a claim.
Liability for a construction site injury can depend on several factors, including the circumstances that led to the accident and the parties involved. Potentially liable parties include:
- Contractors and Subcontractors
- Property Owners
- Equipment Manufacturers
Injured construction workers are always entitled to file for workers’ compensation, regardless of who was at fault for an accident. However, workers whose injuries are the result of third-party negligence may be entitled to seek more substantial compensation through a personal injury claim.
At Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell, our Providence construction accident lawyers have decades of experience investigating these accidents. We can uncover causes, identify the liable party or parties, and help you decide which course of action makes the most sense.
In most cases, employees cannot sue their employers for construction site injuries in Rhode Island. There may be exceptions, however, if an employer’s intentional misconduct caused the injury. The best way to learn if you are entitled to file a lawsuit is through a private consultation with one of the construction accident lawyers at Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell.
Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses related to an injury. It also covers a portion of lost wages, providing financial support until you can return to work. If you cannot resume working or are forced to work in another capacity, other accommodations and additional benefits may be available.
You may be able to secure more compensation—in some cases significantly more—through a personal injury lawsuit. If it can be established that a third party caused your injury, you may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, personal pain and suffering, and more. During your free and confidential consultation at our Providence office, we will discuss all of your options to help you decide if a lawsuit is appropriate for your situation.
When you choose to file a personal injury lawsuit for a construction site injury, you will need evidence to prove that someone else is responsible for your injury. This may include analyzing:
- Accident Reports
- Medical Records
- Security Footage
- Witness Statements
- Employment Records
Depending on the circumstances, expert witnesses may be called in to review records and evaluate evidence as well. If you decide to move forward with a personal injury claim, we will discuss the investigative process in greater detail to help you understand what may be required to build your case.
The process for filing a personal injury lawsuit following a construction accident generally involves:
- Initial Consultation. A complimentary consultation helps you understand your rights and your options. It can also help you decide if a specific law firm is right for you.
- Investigation. Evidence is needed to determine liability. Your lawyer will investigate your accident to gather evidence and identify all causes.
- Filing a Complaint. A complaint outlines your claim and the damages you are seeking. Your attorney will file this complaint with the appropriate court.
- Discovery. This more intensive investigation involves interviewing witnesses and gathering additional information to support your claim. Both sides participate in discovery and exchange certain information.
- Negotiation. Before a trial, most cases enter settlement negotiations. Here, both sides will present arguments to try and resolve the issue pre-trial.
- Trial. When a settlement cannot be reached for whatever reason, the case may proceed to trial. During a trial, your case is heard before a judge and jury who will determine if compensation is appropriate.
Because claims may require a trial, it is important that you select a construction accident attorney who has experience with all aspects of a case including investigation, discovery, settlement negotiations, and trial. The lawyers at our firm have been recognized for their success in complex trial litigation and settlement negotiations. During your free case review, we will carefully evaluate your claim and discuss the legal process to help you prepare for what may be required.
Contact Us for a FREE and Confidential Case Review
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in Providence, you need an experienced construction site injury attorney on your side. Contact Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell online or by calling (401) 273-8330 to schedule a FREE and confidential case review today. Based in Providence, our construction accident lawyers serve all surrounding Rhode Island communities.
