Construction Injuries That May Qualify for More Compensation

Construction sites are some of the most dangerous places to work, with workers facing numerous risks every day. The dangers range from falls to machinery accidents, and the resulting injuries can be severe, leading to long-term consequences. In some cases, these injuries can require higher compensation due to their impact on the worker’s life and future.

Construction accident injuries that cause lasting damage affect the worker’s physical well-being, as well as their financial and emotional well-being. If you or a loved one has been hurt on a construction site, understanding which injuries might warrant higher compensation is essential.

An experienced beach construction accident attorney in Pompano can help you determine if your injury qualifies for higher payouts, depending on the severity of the damage and long-term needs. In Pompano, construction workers often face a range of serious accidents, from falls to machinery malfunctions, and knowing your rights is crucial.

Diving in:

Types of Construction Accident Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Brain injuries are among the most severe types of construction accidents. These can result from falling objects or heavy machinery impacts. TBI can cause lasting cognitive issues, personality changes, and physical disabilities.

As these injuries often require long-term care, rehabilitation, and sometimes constant supervision, they typically result in higher compensation due to the ongoing medical costs.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Injuries to the spine, often caused by falls or machinery accidents, can lead to paralysis or loss of mobility. These injuries severely impact the worker’s ability to move, and rehabilitation is usually a lifelong process.

According to some studies, the lifetime costs for spinal cord injuries can range from $0.7 million to US$2.5 million, making these cases eligible for higher compensation to cover the extensive care and support needed.

Severe Burns and Chemical Exposure

Construction workers frequently deal with hazardous materials, which can cause severe burns and chemical exposure. These injuries can result from electrical accidents, fire, or contact with dangerous substances. Burns are often accompanied by permanent scarring, nerve damage, and emotional distress.

The costs of ongoing medical treatments, such as skin grafts or reconstructive surgeries, make these injuries eligible for higher compensation.

Loss of Limb or Amputations

Losing a limb or facing an amputation is one of the most life-altering injuries a construction worker can sustain. These accidents often occur due to accidents with heavy machinery or falling debris.

Along with the physical pain, workers face long-term issues, including the emotional and psychological effects of losing a part of their body. Prosthetic limbs, physical therapy, and possible job retraining add to the high costs, which is why these injuries warrant higher compensation.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Serious fractures, especially compound fractures, can lead to prolonged medical treatments and rehabilitation. If the fracture results in complications like infections, the injury may require additional surgeries.

Fractures also often prevent workers from returning to their usual jobs, leading to lost income. If the injury is severe enough to prevent returning to work for an extended period, compensation should reflect the lost wages and the pain suffered.

Factors Influencing Higher Compensation

Several factors determine how much compensation a worker can receive after an accident, particularly for severe injuries.

• Severity and Impact of the Injury: Injuries that lead to long-term or permanent disability typically result in higher compensation due to their ongoing impact on the victim’s life.
• Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation: Serious injuries often require expensive medical care, such as surgeries, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. For instance, spinal cord injuries might require years of therapy and specialized medical care, which increases the amount of compensation needed.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: Injuries that affect a person’s ability to return to work can result in a significant loss of earning potential. Workers who can no longer perform their jobs or pursue other employment will need compensation for the income they would have earned.
• Pain and Suffering: Construction accidents can cause physical pain, emotional distress, and a reduced quality of life. These non-economic damages are factored into higher compensation amounts.
• Employer Negligence or Safety Violations: If an employer fails to maintain safety standards, workers can file claims for higher compensation. For example, if safety equipment was not provided or if proper training was not given, these violations can increase the compensation amount.

Legal Considerations in Pursuing Higher Compensation

It is crucial to understand the legal options available after a construction accident. Workers’ compensation provides basic coverage, but in cases of severe injury or employer negligence, a personal injury lawsuit may be the better route for higher compensation. Documenting the injury with medical records and witness testimonies is key to proving the long-term impact of the injury.

Expert testimony, especially from medical professionals, can also support the claim for higher compensation.

Conclusion

Construction injuries can have long-lasting effects on workers, both physically and financially. When the injury is severe, such as a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, or limb loss, the compensation should reflect the extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and emotional suffering involved. Understanding which injuries warrant higher compensation can help workers and their families secure the support they need to rebuild their lives after a construction accident.