Construction sites are inherently dangerous places and accidents can happen at any time. If you’re injured in a Colorado construction site accident, you need to know what steps to take to protect yourself and your legal rights.
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Seek Medical Attention
Regardless of the severity of your injuries, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even seemingly minor injuries can become serious if left untreated. Delaying medical treatment can also harm your legal case. If you wait too long to seek medical attention, the insurance company may use that against you to argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you say they are.
Report The Accident
Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer is required to fill out an accident report, which will detail what happened and who witnessed it. Make sure you get a copy of this report for your records.
Gather Evidence
If possible, gather evidence at the accident scene. This may include taking photographs of the accident scene and your injuries, getting the names and contact information of witnesses, and writing down the names of any contractors or subcontractors who were working on the site.
Consult With An Attorney
Consult with an experienced Colorado construction accident attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can help you understand your legal rights and the compensation you may be entitled to. They can also help you deal with insurance companies and construction companies who may try to deny or minimize your claim.
File A Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you were injured while on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation provides medical care and lost wages to injured workers. Workers’ compensation claims are typically handled through your employer’s insurance company.
Determine If A Third-Party Claim Is Possible
In some cases, you may be able to file a third-party claim against someone other than your employer. For example, if you were injured due to a defective product or equipment, you may be able to file a claim against the manufacturer. Your attorney can help you determine if a third-party claim is possible in your case.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Follow your doctor’s orders and attend all follow-up appointments. Doing so will help ensure that your injuries are properly treated and documented. It will also help strengthen your legal case.
Don’t Discuss Your Case On Social Media
Avoid discussing your case on social media, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Even innocent comments or posts can be twisted to make it seem like you’re not as injured as you claim to be. It’s best to simply avoid social media altogether until your case is resolved.
Conclusion
If you’re injured in a Colorado construction site accident, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your legal rights. Seek medical attention, report the accident, gather evidence, consult with an attorney, file a workers’ compensation claim, determine if a third-party claim is possible, follow your doctor’s orders, and avoid discussing your case on social media. With the help of an experienced attorney, you can get the compensation you deserve and focus on your recovery.