Why Construction Workers Must Come Forward to Report Injuries

Legal Tips and Resources

As a construction worker, you probably already know that your job entails extra risks. You may have to be up on tall ladders and high buildings while using heavy machinery and being around electrical wires. A good attorney knows that the construction field is one of the most dangerous out there and will want to help if you suffered an injury in the field. It is important that you come forward and report any injuries to your employer right away in order to have a good claim.

You may be entitled to compensation and medical care coverage from your employer for the workplace accident that caused your injury or illness. If you don’t report the incident, then this means that you may have to pay out of your own pocket for treatment down the line. 

Don’t Believe These Excuses

Let’s say you were part of a construction accident that injured your arm and now you are experiencing tingling in your fingertips, but aren’t sure why. Maybe you want to tell yourself that it’ll get better on its own, so you wait. Unfortunately, by waiting you are not only neglecting to get yourself the treatment you need, but you could be risking a denial if you pursue a workers compensation claim in the future. It is imperative that you report an injury the very same day so your employer doesn’t have a reason to doubt your story if you finally say something weeks or months later.

If you are trying to convince yourself that you shouldn’t report your workplace injury for any of the following reasons, you should really reconsider. 

  • It’s only part of the job. While working on construction means that you may have more risks and hazards than other jobs, it doesn’t mean you aren’t entitled to workers compensation benefits if something does actually happen. 
  • My coworkers need me. Yes, your coworkers probably need you to help finish a project, but that shouldn’t come at the expense of your own personal health. The culture of a construction site may entail an attitude that you shouldn’t report injuries because it’ll make you look weak or incapable. Sadly, sometimes employers even promote this misconception. 
  • I can’t afford to be out of work. If you file a workers compensation claim for your injuries, chances are you will receive some kind of financial compensation to cover your bills and other expenses until you can return to work. If your employer has made you feel like you’ll lose money or tries to discourage you from filing entirely, then notify a construction accident attorney, like a Miami construction accident attorney, right away. 
  • My employer may fire me for reporting an injury. If your employer fires you or retaliates in any other way for reporting a workplace accident or using workers compensation benefits, they are in violation of your rights and prompt legal intervention is necessary. 

If you or your loved one was involved in a construction accident and suffered injury or illness, contact a construction accident attorney today. 

Thanks to Needle & Ellenberg, P.A. for their insight into why it is important for construction workers to report any work-related injuries promptly.