If you work in construction or a similar industry where you use tools and machinery, then you know the importance of workplace safety, especially when it comes to preventing injuries caused by dropped tools and other falling objects. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen due to carelessness or unforeseen circumstances.
When you have been hurt on the job in this way, a Springfield falling objects lawyer at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. could help you file for workers’ compensation. Our skilled workers’ compensation attorneys have been providing advice and guidance throughout this process for nearly 70 years, and we could support you until your situation is resolved.
Construction sites are perhaps the most common places where accidents from falling objects occur because people are working at different heights. Some people are assigned to spots that are below others, increasing the risk of injury and making it more important to observe proper safety protocols.
Wearing a hard hat is one of the easiest ways to protect the head from a traumatic brain injury. Installing a net or other barrier at lower levels could catch anything that falls from above. Most importantly, good communication between everyone can do a lot to prevent accidents.
However, even following all safety measures cannot prevent every accident if someone is careless. While a hard hat can protect the head, if the object is big and heavy, it could still cause serious damage to the neck and spine. Sharp objects can cause severe cuts from just about any height.
Regardless of who was at fault for dropping something and injuring someone in Springfield, workers’ compensation is available, and an attorney could help with the process.
Workers’ compensation is an insurance policy that provides coverage when employees are hurt on the job. In a way, it is meant to be a faster and simpler way for employees to receive payments because it usually does not require a lengthy legal battle.
There are several types of benefits that an injured employee could be eligible to recover, depending on their specific situation. The most obvious is medical treatment, which becomes especially important if it is a serious injury that requires surgery and extensive recovery time.
In that same vein, another essential benefit is coverage for lost income if the employee is unable to work while receiving treatment. Usually, they can receive about 60 percent of their normal wages, so they can still pay for everyday expenses.
A benefit that many may not know about is vocational rehabilitation. If the injury is so severe that the employee cannot continue performing their previous duties, there are services to help them find a new job, such as job placement and training programs.
No matter what the situation, having experienced legal representation is essential when applying for workers’ compensation for an injury from a falling object in Springfield. Insurers may deny claims, or the company may improperly classify their employees as independent contractors, so they are ineligible for benefits. This can result in delayed payments that the employee rightfully deserves.
Following proper safety protocols is the best way to prevent accidents at work, but there is still a risk. A Springfield falling objects lawyer from Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. could help you file a claim for your workers’ compensation benefits.
Let our attorneys handle the legal work while you focus on your health. Contact our firm today and talk to us about your situation.