Wisconsin Construction Accident Lawyers

Construction zones can be dangerous areas. It is the legal responsibility of the construction company to ensure that the job site maintains adequate safety standards. You may be eligible for more than workers’ compensation if you are injured while working in a construction site accident. Our Wisconsin construction accident lawyers in Eau Claire, La Crosse, and River Falls can help you secure compensation for medical bills, physical rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and other related issues related to the accident.  Our goal is to help you stay informed about your rights in these situations.

Since 1974, Bye, Goff & Rohde has helped Wisconsin construction workers get the financial relief they need to rebuild their lives after an accident. Even when you cannot take legal action against your employer, our team can help you navigate the legal process when you need to file a third-party claim against another negligent party. Our Wisconsin personal injury lawyers will provide you with exceptional service and sound counsel to get you the results you deserve to protect your future. 

Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents in Wisconsin

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified the four primary causes of fatal construction accidents: falls, struck-by accidents, caught-in/between accidents, and electrocutions. There are many different types of accidents within each of these categories, and each one can result in serious and life-threatening harm. Some examples of the most common construction zone accidents include:

• Heavy-duty machinery rollovers
• Electrocution
• Equipment accidents
• Falls off scaffolding, ladders, etc
• Slips and trips
• Highway work zone auto accidents
• Toxic chemical exposure
• Trench accidents

In addition to these accidents, Wisconsin construction workers also face unique dangers specific to the state. For example, Wisconsin has harsh winters that lead to slippery and icy surfaces as well as hot summers that can cause dehydration and heat exhaustion. Additionally, many old buildings within the state may expose workers to hazards such as asbestos and lead paint during construction. Employers are responsible for ensuring proper protocols and safety measures are in place to prevent workplace injuries. 

Construction Injuries Are Often Severe and Have Profound Implications

Accidents in a construction zone are often severe, if not fatal. The resulting injuries have a profound impact on workers’ lives and their families, especially if they are unable to work. Depending on the injury, workers may heal within weeks or months, while other injuries may have permanent effects or require long-term management or care. Common injuries in a construction accident can include:

• Broken bones
• Soft tissue damage
• Traumatic brain injuries and head trauma
• Burns that might lead to significant scarring or complications
• Spine and back problems, resulting in reduced mobility or chronic pain
• Loss of a limb, affecting quality of life and the ability to work
• Illness and disease from exposure to harmful chemicals and substances

Medical attention is vital after a construction accident, given the severity commonly associated with these incidents. Heavy machinery, heights, electricity, and other dangers cause injuries that should be evaluated and treated promptly.

Some injuries may not be evident to the naked eye, and a doctor will know what tests to run to determine the full scope of your injuries. Be sure to keep all records of your treatment and expenses to submit when you report the accident, and to use as evidence in your claim. The Wisconsin construction accident lawyers here at Bye, Goff & Rohde can review these documents as we work on and build your case.

At Construction Sites, Safety Must Come First

Construction zones pose many hazards. Heavy machinery, power tools, and multiple crews working in the same vicinity can lead to serious injuries if someone is neglectful on the job site. According to the most recent report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 5,283 occupational fatalities nationwide, and the construction industry accounted for 1,075 of them. Many of these accidents could have been prevented with additional safety precautions. 

This means wearing proper equipment, such as hard hats, eye protection, and respirators. It also means carrying certain items, such as cell phones, two-way radios, and first aid kits. Employers should also ensure employee work capacity in a demanding environment by checking adequate training and experience, confirming adherence to workplace rules and regulations, performing drug tests, and ensuring employees remain substance-free during work hours. Regular safety training sessions and rigorous inspections can further minimize risks.

Foremen and construction companies must inform their employees about various hazards and safety protocols, and do everything within their power to promote safe practices and work sites. While accidents will still happen, maintaining a robust culture of safety within a company can mitigate the impacts of these inevitable incidents. 

Local Construction Laws & Regulations

Wisconsin has specific regulations that govern construction site safety, which are enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. These include mandates on training, equipment safety, and hazard communication to prevent accidents. Awareness of these local regulations can help workers and employers maintain safer job sites and prevent legal issues. Violations of these rules can result in penalties and increased liability, making compliance essential.

Understanding Wisconsin’s construction laws can also provide injured workers with additional legal options for seeking compensation beyond workers’ compensation claims. Staying informed about these regulations ensures that construction firms operate within legal standards, which can reduce the prevalence of unsafe conditions and protect workers’ rights.

When these laws and regulations are disregarded, negligent parties can be held liable. Our construction accident lawyers in La Crosse, Eau Claire, and River Falls, WI can investigate the accident and take swift action to make sure that the at-fault party does not evade their responsibilities.

The benefits of hiring a personal injury attorney to evaluate your Wisconsin construction accident claim are clear: you hire a proven legal professional with the knowledge, negotiation skills, and trial experience to help you get justice, a resolution, and peace of mind. 

Reporting Process for Construction Accidents in Wisconsin

If you are involved in a construction accident, first seek medical attention to ensure your safety, even if injuries appear minor. You will need to thoroughly detail the scope of your injuries and prognosis in your claim, so keep all test results, documentation, and bills related to your medical care. It is also crucial to continue to maintain records of medical treatments as you move forward through the recovery process.

Document the details of your accident as soon as possible by taking photos and getting witness statements. This helps ensure you have sufficient evidence to support your claim and can show what parties and factors contributed to your injuries. 

You should also report the incident to your supervisor or employer right away. Describe what occurred in detail, when and where it happened, and any other relevant information. You may also be required to complete forms to document the accident, your injuries, and condition, as well as initiate your claim. Keep the lines of communication open with your employer regarding the incident. 

When you are able to do so, you should contact the Wisconsin construction accident attorneys here at Bye, Goff & Rohde to discuss what happened. We can help protect your rights and explore potential compensation paths. These situations can be complicated, and our lawyers will make sure that your case is handled properly and you have a caring advocate regardless of the type of claim you file.

Workers’ Compensation Claims v. Third-Party Claims

One of the biggest differences between workers’ compensation claims and third-party claims is who you can file against.

What Workers’ Compensation Can Cover

Per the Worker’s Compensation Act of Wisconsin, workers’ compensation claims are designed to compensate workers for on-the-job injuries regardless of fault. It also protects employers from liability and being sued. Compensation is generally restricted to medical expenses, lost wages, disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits, as applicable, in this type of claim. 

When to File a Third-Party Claim

If someone other than your employer or colleague caused your accident, you can file a third-party claim and sue the negligent party. This type of claim also allows you to recover more damages. Parties who could be sued include contractors or subcontractors that do not employ you, negligent property owners, manufacturers who create defective products, and drivers. In some situations, you may even have the right to file a third-party claim and workers’ compensation claim simultaneously.

Our Lawyers Help Construction Workers Maximize Compensation

In Wisconsin, construction accident claims can involve complex interactions between state laws, OSHA safety standards, and workers’ compensation policies. Unlike general injury claims, these cases may require a deep understanding of construction regulations and potential third-party liabilities.

The dedicated Wisconsin construction accident lawyers at Bye, Goff & Rohde can navigate these complexities, ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable and that injured workers receive appropriate compensation.

What Happens When Workers’ Comp Is Not Enough?

Workers’ compensation handles many financial shortcomings related to on-the-job construction site injuries. However, the reality is that most insurance providers will not be looking out for your best interests. This means you may not be fully compensated for your medical costs, lost wages, and the emotional damage you have suffered.

You should not have to suffer further because the insurance provider is being unfair. Our construction accident attorneys in Eau Claire, La Crosse, and River Falls, WI can help injured workers seek full recovery of their losses.

At Bye, Goff & Rohde, we will go above and beyond workers’ compensation so that you are adequately compensated in every respect. Not only will we fight for your legal rights, but we will also fight for the financial future of both you and your family. You deserve the opportunity to rebuild your life with peace of mind and the knowledge that you have the resources you need. 

Damages You Can Recover in a Third-Party Construction Accident Claim

When you file a third-party claim, you can generally recover more damages than you would be able to in a workers’ compensation claim. This means that your recovery will not be limited, and you will not have to cover some of your other losses out of pocket. Some losses you can recover in an injury claim include: 

• Current and ongoing medical expenses
• Lost wages or earning capacity
• Funeral and burial expenses when the accident results in death
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, and depression
• Decreased quality of life
• Loss of consortium 

Our lawyers will help you determine what losses you can recover in your case and calculate their value. How much your case is worth will depend on your specific circumstances, as well as the extent and severity of your losses, among other factors. The Wisconsin construction accident lawyers at Bye, Goff & Rohde will accurately identify the scope of your need and will aggressively negotiate to secure maximum compensation.  

Third-Party Claims Must Be Filed Before the Statute of Limitations Expires

When you file a third-party claim for a construction accident, you have a limited amount of time to act. Wisconsin provides a three-year statute of limitations on all injury claims resulting from negligence. The clock starts either the moment you were injured or the moment you discovered your injury.

These cases can be time-consuming to resolve, so you need to act quickly due to the time constraint. Our attorneys can discuss your options with you depending on the amount of time left to pursue action. 

Bystanders Can Also Be Injured in Construction Accidents in Wisconsin

Individuals injured in construction accidents are not always workers. Sometimes they are bystanders in proximity or passing by a construction site. When these injuries stem from negligence, certain construction personnel may be responsible.

For example, contractors, subcontractors, and property owners are responsible for ensuring safe construction sites and surroundings. If an injury is the result of defective scaffolding or falling materials, then manufacturers, architects, and engineers can be liable.

Our lawyers can help you identify which party is responsible for your injury as a bystander so you can sue them and recover your losses. All parties are obligated to ensure safe operations, and when they fail, you have the right to hold them accountable for their actions. Bye, Goff & Rohde will use the evidence to support your claim and build a strong case

Contact Our Wisconsin Construction Accident Lawyers

The Wisconsin construction accident attorneys of Bye, Goff & Rohde represent victims who have been injured, as well as families who have lost a loved one due to construction site accidents. With our extensive experience in personal injury law, we understand the complexities involved in these cases and are prepared to provide comprehensive legal guidance in your time of need. To get a free case review with trusted construction accident lawyers in Eau Claire, River Falls, and La Crosse, WI, contact our law firm today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Construction Accident?

If you are involved in a construction accident, first seek medical attention, even if injuries appear minor. Report the incident to your supervisor or employer and document details as soon as possible, including taking photos and getting witness accounts. It is crucial to maintain records of medical treatments and communications with your employer regarding the incident. Contacting a construction accident attorney in Wisconsin early on can help protect your rights and explore potential compensation paths.

How Do Construction Accident Claims Differ in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, construction accident claims can involve complex interactions between state laws, OSHA safety standards, and workers’ compensation policies. Unlike general injury claims, these cases may require a deep understanding of construction regulations and potential third-party liabilities. A dedicated Wisconsin construction accident lawyer can navigate these complexities, ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable and that injured workers receive appropriate compensation.