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What Are the Most Common Construction Injuries Covered by Workers' Compensation in New Jersey?

Construction Site Accidents
December 12, 2024
By
Web Developers

Construction sites are dynamic and challenging environments that pose significant risks to workers. In New Jersey, workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect employees injured during their duties, offering financial support for medical treatment, lost wages, and other associated costs. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning injured workers can receive benefits regardless of who caused the accident.

For construction workers, injuries can range from minor incidents to life-altering events. New Jersey’s workers’ compensation laws ensure that employees can focus on their recovery without the additional burden of proving employer negligence. While most injuries that occur on the job are covered, certain types of injuries are particularly common on construction sites due to the nature of the work and the inherent hazards of the industry.

1. Falls from Heights

One of the leading causes of construction site injuries in New Jersey is falls from heights. Whether working on scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops, construction workers often perform tasks at significant elevations. Despite the availability of safety equipment such as harnesses and guardrails, falls continue to occur due to equipment failures, improper training, or inadequate safety measures.

These incidents can result in severe consequences, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries. Workers’ compensation covers injuries sustained in falls, ensuring that workers receive necessary medical care and compensation for lost wages during recovery. Employers are encouraged to enforce strict safety protocols, but even with precautions, accidents happen, and injured workers are entitled to benefits.

2. Equipment-Related Injuries

Construction sites depend heavily on machinery and tools, ranging from forklifts and cranes to jackhammers and power saws. While these tools enhance efficiency, they also pose significant risks when misused, poorly maintained, or defective. Equipment-related accidents can cause injuries such as amputations, crush injuries, burns, or deep lacerations.

In addition to workers’ compensation claims, some cases may involve third-party liability. For example, if a defective piece of equipment caused the injury, workers might be able to pursue additional compensation through a product liability claim against the manufacturer. Regardless of the circumstances, workers injured by machinery are entitled to workers’ compensation to cover medical costs and wage loss.

3. Electrocutions and Electrical Burns

Electrocutions and electrical burns are significant hazards on construction sites, especially during projects involving wiring, machinery, or proximity to live power lines. These accidents can occur due to improper grounding, lack of insulation, or accidental contact with exposed wires. Electrocutions are particularly dangerous and can lead to cardiac issues, nerve damage, or fatalities.

New Jersey workers’ compensation laws ensure that employees who suffer electrical injuries receive the medical attention they need. Employers are expected to provide proper safety training and equipment to reduce these risks. However, workers can still claim benefits even if safety protocols were not fully implemented, as the system is designed to support injured employees regardless of fault.

4. Overexertion and Repetitive Motion Injuries

Construction work often demands physical labor that can lead to overexertion or repetitive motion injuries. Tasks such as lifting heavy materials, operating machinery, or performing the same movement repeatedly can result in chronic pain, strained muscles, or joint damage. Over time, these injuries may develop into conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, or chronic back pain.

Workers’ compensation covers these types of injuries, but claims for repetitive stress injuries can be more complex. Workers must demonstrate that their condition is directly related to their job duties. Keeping detailed records of daily tasks and symptoms can strengthen such claims and ensure workers receive the benefits they need to recover and manage ongoing issues.

5. Struck-by Accidents

Struck-by accidents are another leading cause of injuries on construction sites. These incidents occur when a worker is hit by falling objects, moving vehicles, or equipment. For example, unsecured tools or materials can fall from scaffolding, or a worker could be struck by a forklift operating nearby. Struck-by accidents often lead to severe injuries, including concussions, fractures, and internal trauma.

Workers’ compensation provides coverage for medical treatment and lost income resulting from struck-by accidents. Employers have a responsibility to enforce proper storage and safety measures to reduce these risks. Workers should also report any unsafe conditions to supervisors to prevent potential accidents.

Steps to Take After a Construction Injury

Experiencing an injury on a construction site can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps is critical to protecting your health and legal rights. Here are key actions workers should take following an accident:

  • Report the Injury: Notify your employer or supervisor immediately after the accident. Prompt reporting ensures that the incident is documented and helps initiate the workers’ compensation process.
  • Seek Medical Attention: Visit an authorized medical provider to receive treatment and obtain documentation of your injuries. Accurate medical records are essential for your workers’ compensation claim.
  • Document the Scene: If possible, take photographs of the accident site, equipment involved, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who can support your claim.
  • File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Work with your employer to submit the necessary paperwork to the workers’ compensation insurance provider. Ensure you keep copies of all documents for your records.
  • Consult an Attorney: If your claim is denied or you encounter disputes, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can advocate for your rights and help you obtain the benefits you deserve.

How Workers’ Compensation Benefits Support Injured Workers

Workers’ compensation benefits play a vital role in helping construction workers recover from their injuries. These benefits typically include:

  • Medical Coverage: Full payment for necessary medical treatments, including surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
  • Wage Replacement: Temporary disability benefits to compensate for lost income during recovery, calculated as a percentage of the worker’s average weekly wage.
  • Permanent Disability Benefits: Compensation for workers who sustain lasting impairments that impact their ability to work.
  • Death Benefits: Financial support for families of workers who suffer fatal injuries on the job.

These benefits provide critical financial assistance, allowing workers to focus on healing while maintaining stability for themselves and their families.

Contact Lee Law Firm Today if You’ve Been Injured in a New Jersey Construction Accident

Construction sites are inherently dangerous, but workers in New Jersey are protected by strong workers’ compensation laws. These laws ensure that employees injured on the job receive the financial and medical support they need to recover. Whether you have experienced a minor injury or a life-changing accident, taking the appropriate steps to secure your rights is essential.If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, contact us today for personalized legal assistance. Our dedicated team is committed to helping workers pursue the benefits they deserve and achieve peace of mind during a challenging time.

Contact Our Office

At Lee Law Firm, we have extensive knowledge and experience successfully handling personal injury claims. We take all personal injury cases on a contingency basis—you won’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for your losses.

Call us at 973-315-9080 or contact us online to schedule an appointment. We are available to meet with you evenings and weekends, if necessary. We welcome all major credit cards. ¡Nosotros hablamos español!

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