Minnesota Construction Accident Lawyers

Minnesota is known for its thriving construction industry, employing over 175,000 people and contributing over $18 billion to its economy. Unfortunately, with such a bustling industry comes an increased risk of construction accidents.

Construction accidents can result in severe injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries or even fatalities. These accidents can also lead to substantial medical bills, lost wages, and permanent disabilities, affecting injured workers and their families.

In such situations, it is essential to have a legal advocate who can help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for your rights. This is where a Minnesota construction accident lawyer comes in. These legal professionals specialize in representing individuals injured in construction accidents and can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a construction accident. That’s why we are committed to helping our clients navigate the complex insurance claim process from a construction accident.  As a result of your injury, you may have a workers’ compensation claim, and/or a third party liability claim against any third party who may be at fault for causing the accident.  We advise our clients of their rights, and look to reach a fair and reasonable settlement with the involved insurance companies.  If we are unable to settle the claim, we are not afraid to take on the big insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve.

Our experienced team of Minnesota construction accident lawyers has a track record of successfully obtaining favorable outcomes for our clients. Contact our law firm to schedule a free consultation if you need legal assistance after a construction accident.

Minnesota Construction Accident Statistics

According to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, there were 2,548 reported construction accidents in 2020, which resulted in 50 fatalities and 413 hospitalizations. Falls, struck-by accidents, and electrical incidents were the leading causes of fatalities in the construction industry in Minnesota.

Furthermore, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry reported that construction fatalities increased by 30% in 2020 compared to the previous year. These statistics highlight the importance of taking safety precautions seriously and ensuring workers have proper training and equipment.

Laws in Place to Protect Minnesota Construction Workers

Both state and federal laws have been put in place to protect construction workers in Minnesota. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency responsible for setting and enforcing safety standards in the workplace.

In addition to federal regulations, Minnesota has state-specific laws to protect construction workers. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry oversees compliance with state laws, such as the Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Act (MOSHA).

Specific laws in place include the following:

• The Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Act (MOSHA) – This law sets safety standards and regulations for all Minnesota employers, including those in the construction industry. Employers must follow these regulations to provide a safe workplace for their employees.
• Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Statutes – This law requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured. If an employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, injured employees may be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages.
• OSHA Construction Standards – These federal regulations set safety standards for the construction industry, including fall protection, electrical safety, and respiratory protection. Employers must comply with these regulations to ensure the safety of their employees.

Common Types of Construction Accidents

Construction work can be dangerous, and workers are at risk of accidents that can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Here are some of the most common types of construction accidents and their potential consequences.

Falling from Heights

Falls from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or other heights are common construction accidents that can have devastating outcomes. These accidents can result in broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even death.

Electrocution

Construction sites often involve working near power lines or using electrical tools, which can lead to electrocution injuries. These injuries can range from minor burns to severe neurological damage or death.

Accidents Involving Heavy Machinery

Workers using heavy machinery, such as cranes or bulldozers, can be at risk of accidents that result in serious injuries, including amputations, fractures, or crush injuries.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slippery surfaces, uneven terrain, or debris on the ground can cause workers to slip, trip, or fall, resulting in injuries ranging from bruises to head injuries or broken bones.

Burns

Workers may be at risk of burns from hot surfaces, chemicals, or explosions. Burns can cause severe pain, scarring, and disfigurement.

Chemical Exposure

Construction workers may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, such as asbestos, lead, or silica. Prolonged exposure can lead to lung damage, cancer, or other serious illnesses.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

You may be entitled to compensation if you have been injured in a construction accident in Minnesota. This compensation may come in the form of a workers’ compensation claim, or a third party liability claim against any third party responsible for causing your injury.  Understanding your legal options can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Negligence

General negligence from employers, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and other third parties is the leading cause of injuries on construction sites. Negligence can include failing to maintain equipment, ignoring safety regulations, or not addressing hazardous conditions on the job site.

OSHA Violations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets safety standards that employers must follow. Violations can include failing to provide proper safety equipment or training, inadequate fall protection, or not having an emergency response plan.

Inadequate Safety Equipment

Appropriate safety equipment should be utilized at all times on construction sites, such as hard hats, safety glasses, or harnesses. Inadequate safety equipment, failing to use safety equipment, or failing to use safety equipment properly can increase the risk of serious injuries or fatalities.

Lack of Safety Training

Employers must provide proper training to ensure workers know how to safely use equipment, identify hazards, and follow safety protocols. Without proper training, workers may be at risk of accidents.

Unsafe Working Conditions

Hazardous conditions on a job site can increase the risk of accidents. These can include uneven terrain, poorly maintained equipment, or exposure to dangerous materials. must identify and address unsafe conditions to keep workers and other third parties safe.

Why Hire a Minnesota Construction Accident Lawyer?

Hiring the right Minnesota construction accident lawyer is crucial in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Here are some important factors to consider when looking for a construction accident lawyer in Minnesota.

Knowledge of State Laws and Regulations

An experienced Minnesota construction accident lawyer will thoroughly understand state laws and regulations related to construction accidents. This knowledge can help ensure your case is handled properly, and you receive the compensation you deserve.

Experience with Construction Accident Cases

An attorney with experience in construction accident cases understands the complexities of these types of cases and can provide you with expert legal guidance.

Ability to Handle Insurance Companies

Insurance companies may try to offer you a low settlement or deny your claim altogether. An experienced construction accident lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to help you obtain a fair settlement.  If the insurance company will not negotiate or pay what is fair and reasonable, it may become necessary to start a lawsuit against the party or parties responsible for your injury.

Access to Expert Witnesses

Expert witnesses, such as medical or accident reconstruction specialists, can provide valuable testimony to support your case. A construction accident lawyer can help you find and hire the appropriate expert witnesses to support your case.

Maximize Compensation for Injuries

A construction accident lawyer can help you get maximum compensation for your injuries. This can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injuries.  An experienced construction accident lawyer will build your case by working with your doctors and other experts to prove your damages.

Steps to Take After a Construction Site Accident in Minnesota

Construction accidents can result in severe injuries, and taking the right steps to protect your health and legal rights is important. Here are the steps to take after a construction accident:

• Seek Medical Attention: The priority after a construction accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, it is important to get a medical evaluation to ensure that you don’t have any hidden or latent injuries.
• Report the Accident to Your Employer or the General Contractor: It is important to report the accident immediately. This will ensure that the appropriate parties are aware of the accident and can take steps to document and investigate the accident, as well as prevent similar accidents in the future.
• Gather Evidence: Collecting evidence is critical in building a strong case. Take photos of the accident scene, any injuries you sustained, and any safety hazards that contributed to the accident. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident.
• Contact a Minnesota Construction Accident Lawyer: It is important to contact a construction accident lawyer immediately after the accident. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
• File a Workers’ Compensation Claim, If Applicable: In Minnesota, employers must carry workers’’ compensation insurance. You may be entitled to workers’’ compensation benefits if you were injured on the job.  These benefits may include your medical expenses, lost wages, as well as others.

By taking these steps, you can protect your health and your legal rights after a construction accident. An experienced construction accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Minnesota Workers’ Compensation for Construction Accidents

Workers’ compensation is insurance that benefits employees injured on the job. In Minnesota, employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, and employees injured on the job may be eligible for benefits.

Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation

You must have been injured while on the job to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. This includes injuries that result from accidents and injuries that develop over time due to repetitive motions or exposure to hazardous materials.

Benefits of Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation benefits can cover various expenses related to your injury, including medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. In some cases, you may also be eligible for disability benefits if your injury results in a permanent disability that prevents you from returning to work.

How a Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help with Your Claim

A construction accident lawyer can help you understand your rights under Minnesota law.  This may include bringing a workers’ compensation claim, as well as a possible third party liability claim against any third party responsible for causing your injury. They can help you gather evidence to support your claim, fill out the necessary paperwork, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If they are unable to settle your claim, they can help you commence a lawsuit against any at fault parties.

Filing a Lawsuit for a Construction Accident

While workers’ compensation is typically the primary way to recover compensation for a construction accident, in some cases, you may also have a third party liability claim.  This could occur if there was a third party, separate and apart from your employer, such as a subcontractor, general contractor, supplier, or other third party who was responsible for causing the accident. Here is what you need to know about filing a lawsuit for a construction accident:

When to File a Lawsuit

Minnesota has certain statutes of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits.  Generally, the statute of limitations for claims based on negligence is six years from the date of the injury.  This means that you must either settle your claim or start a lawsuit within six years of the date of the accident, or your claim will be forever barred.  Other claims may have shorter statutes of limitations, and it is, therefore, important that you consult with a lawyer as soon possible after the accident so that your rights are protected.

Types of Damages You Can Recover

If you file a lawsuit for a construction accident, you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses related to your injury. In some cases, you may also be able to recover punitive damages, which are designed to punish the responsible parties for their actions.

How a Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help with Your Lawsuit

A construction accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. A lawyer can also help you understand the potential value of your case and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Minnesota Construction Accident Lawyers for Help with Your Claim

Construction accidents can result in serious injuries and financial losses for workers and their families. If you have been injured in a construction accident, it is important to understand your legal rights and options.

The experienced construction accident lawyers at Nelson Personal Injury, LLC can help you navigate the legal process and obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We can provide expert legal guidance and representation on your construction accident claim.

We understand the impact a construction accident can have on your life, and we are committed to helping our clients obtain the justice and compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you with your construction accident claim.