Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH

Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH

Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH

Construction work is a demanding and often hazardous occupation where workers face numerous risks daily. Fortunately, Ohio provides workers’ compensation to most construction workers, offering financial support for injuries or illnesses sustained on the job.

There are instances where construction workers may also qualify for third-party compensation that goes beyond what’s normally covered under workers’ comp. In these situations, Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH can help guide injured workers through the complex legal process.

Understanding Third-Party Compensation in Construction Work

Workers’ compensation is typically the primary avenue for addressing workplace injuries and illnesses, providing benefits like medical coverage and wage replacement. However, third-party compensation comes into play when a worker’s injury or illness is caused by a party other than their employer or a co-worker. This third party could be a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, property owner, another driver on the road, or a separate entity involved in the construction project. If this applies to your case, seeking help from Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH may be crucial to maximize your compensation.

The goal of third-party compensation isn’t to get as much money as possible or to get rich, but rather to hold the negligent parties accountable for their actions and ensure you’re compensated for the full extent of your losses (including things like pain and suffering, which aren’t available in normal workers’ comp claims). Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH can assist in holding those responsible accountable for their negligence.

Situations Where Third-Party Compensation May Be Needed

• Defective Equipment: If a construction worker is injured due to a malfunctioning or defective piece of equipment or machinery, they may have a third-party claim against the equipment manufacturer or distributor. In such cases, Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH can help build a strong case.
• Subcontractor Negligence: When a subcontractor’s negligence leads to an accident or injury, such as a fall due to poorly installed scaffolding, the injured worker may have a third-party claim against the subcontractor. Consulting Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH can ensure that every aspect of the claim is handled correctly.
• Property Owner Liability: If a construction worker is injured on a property due to hazardous conditions or inadequate safety measures, they may have a third-party claim against the property owner. Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH can assist in identifying liable parties and pursuing compensation.

Examples of Third-Party Construction Accident Claims

• Falls from Height
  Example: A worker falls from scaffolding due to a defective safety railing. In addition to a workers’ compensation claim, they may have a third-party claim against the scaffolding manufacturer for producing a faulty product or the subcontractor responsible for assembling the scaffolding.
• Electrical Accidents
  Example: A subcontractor’s improper wiring installation leads to an electrical fire that injures a construction worker. In addition to workers’ compensation, the worker may have a third-party claim against the subcontractor for negligence.

Determining Liability in Third-Party Claims

Liability in third-party construction accident claims is determined based on the principles of negligence. To establish liability, the injured worker (plaintiff) and their attorney must demonstrate the following elements:

• Duty of Care: The third party owed a duty of care to the injured worker. For example, equipment manufacturers have a duty to produce safe and reliable products.
• Breach of Duty: The third party breached their duty of care through negligence or wrongful actions. This could include a subcontractor’s failure to follow safety protocols or perform work up to code.
• Causation: The breach of duty directly caused the worker’s injury or illness. It must be shown that the third party’s actions or negligence were a substantial factor in the accident.
• Damages: The worker suffered actual damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, as a result of the injury or illness. Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH will help prove these elements in your case.

Why Filing a Third-Party Claim May Make Sense for You

Filing a third-party claim in addition to a workers’ compensation claim can make sense for several compelling reasons. Workers’ compensation provides essential benefits, including medical coverage and wage replacement, but it has inherent limitations. Third-Party Construction Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH can help you understand the differences and advantages of third-party claims.

Third-party claims allow injured individuals to seek compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages. Workers’ compensation typically does not cover these aspects of an injury, yet they can be significant and long-lasting consequences of a workplace accident.

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