Every workplace comes with its share of occupational risks and hazards. However, a construction site is a uniquely dangerous workplace. From debris to slippery floors to working from elevated spots, there is no doubt that construction workers face a myriad of hazards.
A construction site accident can impact your ability to work and provide for your family. Fortunately, there are statutes that protect injured workers by holding responsible parties liable. However, there are a couple of things you need to do in order to boost your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Here are some of them:
Report the accident
There are a number of reasons why you need to report the construction site accident that resulted in your injury. First, this will ensure that the accident is documented in the occurrence book.
This is important for safety assessment and the prevention of future injuries. Secondly, this is a statutory requirement. New Jersey laws require that you report workplace injuries to your employer within 14 days from the date of the injury.
Seek treatment
It is important that you seek treatment as soon as possible following your construction site injury. One of the worst mistakes you can make after any accident is to try to “tough things out” with the hope that you will feel better in a matter of hours or days.
Seeking treatment as soon as possible ensures that the facts surrounding your injuries are accurately documented. With a medical report that clearly ties your injuries to the construction site accident, you will have an easier time proving your workers’ compensation claim.
A construction site is an inherently hazardous workplace. Knowing the proper steps to take following a construction site can help you maximize the compensation you deserve for your injuries.