As you can imagine, construction sites are inherently risky work environments. Even with strict safety protocols in place, workplace accidents can unfortunately still occur. If you have sustained an injury at a Florida construction site, knowing your legal rights and options is essential. Please read on as we delve into important information regarding these cases and explain how our determined Manatee County Construction Accident Lawyers can assist you in securing the compensation you are due.
Who Can Be Held Liable After a Construction Accident?
In the unfortunate event that you have been injured at a Florida construction site, you may initially turn to workers’ compensation. While it can provide medical care, wage replacement, and rehabilitation benefits after a workplace injury, regardless of who caused the accident, you waive your right to sue your employer directly for your damages. Additionally, workers’ compensation does not cover your non-economic losses lke pain and suffering. That said, it is in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced Manatee County construction accident lawyer to investigate all legal avenues to secure the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Depending on the specific circumstances of the workplace accident, you may be entitled to pursue a third-party liability claim against negligent parties, including the property owner, general contractor, equipment manufacturer, engineers, and equipment rental companies. A qualified attorney at Becker & Lindauer, LLC, can help you identify all potentially liable parties and determine the best course of action.
What Should I Know About Third-Party Liability Claims?
It is important to understand that a third party claims allows injured parties to seek compensation from a party other than their employer who is at fault for a workplace accident. Unlike a workers’ compensation claim, you are responsible for proving the third party’s negligence directly caused your injuries and damages. Although the process for pursuing this type of claim can be complex, it becomes much simpler when you hire a Manatee County construction accident lawyer. Given the strict timeframe in which you must file a third-party claim, swift action is paramount.
To succeed in a third-party claim in Florida, you must prove the following elements:
- Duty of Care: First, you need to establish that the defendant had a legal obligation to act with reasonable prudence and care to avoid causing harm.
- Breach of Duty: Next, you must show that the defendant failed to meet the required standard of care.
- Causation: From here, you must prove that the defendant’s failure was the direct and immediate cause of your injuries.
- Damages: Finally, you will need to establish that you experienced quantifiable losses (physical, monetary, emotional).
Keep in mind that if you decide to sue the party or entity that was at fault after or while you are receiving medical care or compensation for lost wages, you might have to pay that financial support back. The insurance company can place a lien on any future settlement or judgment you get to recover the money they provided.
If a negligent third party injured you at work, contact Becker & Lindauer, LLC for a consultation. We are ready to help you fight for the justice you deserve.
