Frequently asked questions

How common are construction site injuries?
Every year one out of ten construction workers sustains an injury on the job.

What is the most frequent type of accident on construction sites?
Falls, both in place and from height, are the most frequent type of accidents on construction sites. Other causes of injury include electrocution, trench cave-ins, and malfunctioning equipment, especially cranes, forklifts and other machinery.

What is the most frequent type of injury sustained in construction?
Back injuries are the most frequently occurring type of construction injury.

Do certain trades have higher rates of injuries and death?
Unskilled laborers have the highest rate of fatal injuries. Among the skilled trades, ironworkers and roofers have the highest rates of injury. For ironworkers, decking operations carry the highest risk of injury.

What kinds of expenses are involved in a construction site lawsuit?
Although each case is unique, many construction site lawsuits involve similar tasks and expenses, such as fees for investigators, consultants and expert witnesses, including engineers and medical personnel, case analysis, photography, computer graphics, and other expenses associated with preparation of models and evidence. In addition there are costs associated with researching and preparing a case, deposing witnesses, and court costs.

If I settle a lawsuit in a construction injury case, am I required to pay back Workers Compensation for my medical expenses?
In most states, workers compensation insurers can seek repayment for their expenditures when a construction site injury lawsuit is settled. The insurance carrier is usually required to pay its share of attorney fees and expenses for the lawsuit. Their right to seek repayment is called subrogation.

Can a Casey Gerry construction injury attorney help me claim compensation for loss of earning capacity if I am injured on a construction job?
Casey Gerry construction attorneys work with their clients to make a recovery for their loss of earnings or loss of earning capacity. For example, if you earn a regular salary, and because of your injury you miss several weeks or several months of work, you are entitled to be reasonably compensated for the entire loss of earnings from the time of your injury until you are able to return to full time work.