New Jersey Construction Litigation Lawyers

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Construction Litigation

Construction projects often involve multiple parties, complex contracts, and inherently hazardous environments. Legal issues, including personal injury claims, are common in the construction industry. At Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law, our experienced New Jersey construction litigation lawyers are equipped to handle the challenges associated with these cases.

We provide comprehensive legal representation for those injured in construction accidents. We handle all aspects of construction claims, including Workers’ Compensation and third-party personal injury.

Types of Construction Litigation We Handle

Our firm has a deep understanding of construction law and handles a wide variety of legal issues, including but not limited to:

  • Construction Defects: Construction defects can lead to safety hazards, property damage, and financial losses. Claims may involve structural issues, code violations, or faulty materials.
  • Workers’ Compensation Claims: Construction sites are inherently dangerous, and accidents can result in serious injuries. Employees injured on the job are generally entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits, including medical expenses and lost wages. Our attorneys assist injured construction workers in filing and appealing Workers’ Compensation claims.
  • Third-Party Personal Injury Claims: In some cases, injured construction workers may have a claim against a third party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner, for negligence that caused the accident. Unlike Workers’ Compensation claims, third-party personal injury claims can provide compensation for pain and suffering in addition to economic losses.
  • OSHA Violations and Safety Issues: Failure to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards can lead to accidents, injuries, and fines.

Workers’ Compensation Vs. Third-Party Claims

Construction accident claims often involve Workers’ Compensation benefits, but depending on the circumstances, they may also involve third-party personal injury lawsuits.

When Are Workers’ Compensation Claims Filed?

Workers’ Compensation is a no-fault system that benefits employees injured on the job. These benefits cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and permanent disability in some cases. However, Workers’ Compensation does not provide compensation for pain and suffering.

Our attorneys help injured workers navigate the claims process, ensuring that all documentation is properly completed and that benefits are received in a timely manner. If a claim is denied or benefits are unfairly reduced, we advocate on behalf of the injured worker through the appeals process.

When Are Third-Party Personal Injury Claims Filed?

When a party other than the employer is responsible for a construction accident, the injured worker may have grounds for a third-party personal injury claim. These claims often arise from situations such as:

  • Defective machinery or tools.
  • Negligent subcontractors or vendors.
  • Unsafe property conditions.

Third-party claims can result in additional compensation beyond Workers’ Compensation benefits, including damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and full lost wages. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the accident to identify all liable parties and maximize the compensation available to our clients.

What Are the Common Causes of Construction Accidents?

Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces, and several factors frequently contribute to accidents. OSHA has identified the “Fatal Four” as the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry:

  1. Falls: Falls are the leading cause of death on construction sites, accounting for a significant percentage of fatalities. Workers may fall from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or other elevated areas due to insufficient safety equipment, unsecured work surfaces, or lack of fall protection systems.
  2. Struck by Objects: Another major cause of injuries and fatalities is being struck by falling tools, equipment, or debris. These accidents occur when materials are improperly secured or workers fail to wear hard hats or other protective gear.
  3. Electrocutions: Electrocutions occur when workers come into contact with live electrical wires, power lines, or improperly grounded equipment. Poor electrical safety practices and inadequate training increase the likelihood of these incidents.
  4. Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents: These accidents involve workers being caught in or crushed between heavy machinery, collapsing structures, or trench walls. Lack of proper safeguards and poor site management often contribute to these tragic events.

Beyond the Fatal Four, other common causes of construction accidents include:

  • Heavy Machinery Accidents: Operating cranes, forklifts, and other heavy machinery require skill and attention. Equipment malfunctions, inadequate training, or negligent operation can lead to severe accidents.
  • Trench and Structural Collapses: Excavations and trenches can cave in if not properly reinforced, trapping workers. Similarly, structural failures can occur due to poor design or materials.
  • Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Construction workers may encounter toxic chemicals, asbestos, and other hazardous materials, which can lead to long-term health issues or immediate injuries.
  • Overexertion or Fatigue: Prolonged work hours and physically demanding tasks can lead to overexertion, increasing the risk of mistakes and accidents.

What Are Common Construction Accident Injuries?

Construction accidents can lead to various injuries, varying from minor to life-altering. Some of the most common injuries sustained on construction sites include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries from falls, falling objects, or collisions with equipment can result in concussions or more severe TBIs, leading to cognitive impairments or long-term disability.
  • Fractures and Broken Bones: Falls, equipment accidents, or collapses often cause fractures, which may require surgery, physical therapy, and extensive recovery periods.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents involving falls or heavy impacts can damage the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity.
  • Burns: Electrical accidents, fires, or exposure to chemical substances can lead to severe burns that may require extensive medical treatment, including skin grafts.
  • Cuts and Lacerations: Sharp tools, machinery, or falling debris can cause deep cuts, which may result in significant blood loss or infections.
  • Crush Injuries: Heavy machinery or collapsing structures can trap and crush workers, leading to severe damage to bones, muscles, and internal organs.
  • Amputations: Accidents involving heavy machinery or power tools can result in the loss of limbs, significantly impacting a worker’s ability to return to their job.
  • Respiratory Issues: Long-term exposure to dust, asbestos, or toxic chemicals can cause respiratory illnesses, including silicosis or mesothelioma.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and muscle tears are common among construction workers due to the physically demanding nature of the job.

Can I File Both a Workers’ Compensation and a Third-Party Claim?

It is possible to file both a Workers’ Compensation claim and a third-party personal injury lawsuit. Workers’ Compensation benefits cover basic losses, while third-party claims allow injured workers to seek additional compensation from negligent parties.

Contact the New Jersey Construction Litigation Lawyers at Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law Today to Explore Your Options

The New Jersey construction litigation lawyers at Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law are here to help after an accident. We have the knowledge and experience needed to navigate the complexities of construction law. Call us at 732-743-9665 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Red Bank, New Jersey, we serve clients in Monmouth County, Middlesex County, and Ocean County.

CALL US TODAY 848-266-5124

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