Harrisburg Construction Accident Lawyers

Tens of Millions in Recovery from Construction Injury Attorneys in Harrisburg, PA

As vital as construction work is, it comes with a staggering amount of risk to the people working in that field. Some of the top OSHA violations recorded yearly tend to be safety violations at construction sites, such as falls from scaffolding or electrocutions. With roadway construction work alone, PennDOT recorded 1,216 crashes in 2023, in which 22 people were killed. As a whole, OSHA has stated that construction sites are where about 20% of all workplace deaths occur.

Construction workers face numerous hazards daily, including heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and extreme environmental conditions. These dangers threaten their immediate safety and can lead to long-term health issues. Given these risks, it becomes imperative for companies to adhere strictly to safety regulations and for workers to take necessary precautions.

When a construction accident causes grievous injuries or the loss of a loved one, workers and their families should not be left to deal with high costs alone. At Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC, our construction accident lawyers in Harrisburg know how to help injured workers and their families recover compensation to deal with their medical costs, pain and suffering, disability, and other losses.

Call (717) 775-7514 today to request your free consultation with a construction accident lawyer in Harrisburg. With us, there’s no fee until and unless we win your case!

Understanding the “Fatal 4” in Construction Accidents

Each year, about 3 out of 5 five construction worker fatalities are due to one of the following:

• Falls, whether from height or into ditches, account for the top work safety violation each year.
• Electrical injuries and electrocution are prevalent risks on construction sites, whether from malfunctioning machinery or working directly with or around electrical wires.
• Struck-by-object accidents involve heavy equipment or materials that fall on or swing into workers.
• Caught-in and caught-between accidents are when objects or machinery pinned or crushed a limb.

Beyond these common accident causes, specific site conditions, such as weather, poorly maintained equipment, or insufficient safety training, contribute significantly to the dangers. Construction sites are dynamic environments that require constant vigilance and adaptation to new risks. Employers should prioritize regular safety audits and implement comprehensive training programs to mitigate these dangers.

If you or a loved one has been in one of these or any other type of construction accident, one of our construction accident lawyers in Harrisburg can help you review your legal options and take action to recover the compensation you need and deserve.

Getting Compensation for Construction Accidents in Harrisburg

The law requires you to file a workers’ compensation claim within 120 days of an injury. Taking prompt action and having things on record is crucial for getting the compensation you need. It's not uncommon for construction injury claims to involve workers' compensation and third-party liability, depending on the circumstances. For example, equipment manufacturers, contractors, or subcontractors might bear some responsibility for your accident. Our team thoroughly investigates all aspects of your case to ensure that all liable parties are held accountable.

Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC knows everything you'll need to build the strongest case possible and ensure that the insurance company doesn’t downplay or deny your claim. Our construction accident lawyers in Harrisburg do everything we can to make sure our clients get the compensation they need to move forward with their lives. Backed by more than a century of fighting for plaintiffs, we’ve helped 40,000 Pennsylvanians and counting. Find out how we can help you.

When You Need More Than Workers' Comp Benefits

In addition to workers’ compensation, there are other forms of compensation available in construction accident claims. For instance, a construction accident attorney Harrisburg residents trust can identify whether unjust working conditions or defective equipment played a role in their injuries, opening the door to third-party lawsuits. This can be especially valuable if the injury occurred at a large worksite or on a major project near the Capitol Complex, where multiple contractors are involved. Having a knowledgeable team review the specifics of your accident is essential to ensure your claim accounts for every source of compensation available.

In the aftermath of a construction accident, compensation may come from multiple sources and in various forms:

• Workers’ compensation benefits are available to most employees who are injured while working on a construction site in Pennsylvania, covering medical bills and lost wages.
• Third-party liability claims can be pursued if another company or vendor’s negligence played a role in the incident, such as a manufacturer of defective equipment.
• Personal injury claims allow for potential additional recovery if your accident was caused by someone other than your employer and meets exceptions under Pennsylvania law.
• Claims against subcontractors may arise if another party working at your construction site contributed to the unsafe conditions or caused the accident.

Our construction accident lawyers in Harrisburg make themselves available 24/7 to help clients. Don’t wait to find out how we may be able to help you: Call (717) 775-7514.

Understanding Construction Accident Laws in Harrisburg

Pennsylvania's laws regarding construction accidents are designed to protect workers and ensure that they have access to compensation when injured on the job. The state's workers' compensation system covers most construction accidents, offering benefits for medical bills, partial wages, and rehabilitation expenses. However, claiming these benefits can be complex; failing to follow all filing deadlines and procedures could result in a claim denial, which is why you should have an attorney. 

In addition to workers' compensation, some situations might warrant personal injury claims, especially if third-party negligence contributed to the accident. For example, if equipment failure was caused by a manufacturer's defect, a plaintiff's attorney could file a third-party claim. Understanding the nuances of these legal questions is crucial for securing full compensation, so having knowledgeable construction accident lawyers in Harrisburg on your side makes a significant difference.

There are several important legal considerations for victims of construction accidents in Harrisburg:

• State and federal regulations such as OSHA standards and the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act apply to most construction accident claims.
• Local court procedures in the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas may affect how your case is handled, including timelines and evidentiary requirements.
• Third-party negligence claims can be brought if parties other than your employer are responsible, which often involves separate legal standards and proof.
• Case deadlines for notice and filing vary; missing a deadline can impact your eligibility for different forms of compensation.

When choosing a construction accident attorney in Harrisburg, it’s important to look for someone who not only understands state law, but also is familiar with local ordinances and procedures in venues such as Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas. A lawyer’s familiarity with how area courts handle complex personal injury cases can help streamline the process and anticipate potential legal hurdles specific to Harrisburg. This local legal perspective allows construction accident claims to be pursued as efficiently as possible, giving clients the confidence that their rights are protected under both Pennsylvania law and local regulations.

Choosing the Right Construction Accident Attorney for Your Case

Finding the right legal representation after a construction accident make a real difference in the outcome of your claim. Navigating complex regulations and employer insurance policies in Harrisburg requires an attorney who knows Pennsylvania law and has direct experience with local courts and authorities. By working with a reputable construction accident attorney in Harrisburg, you gain an advocate who understands the unique construction landscape and the challenges workers face in the region.

When considering your options, look for a law firm that demonstrates a strong track record of handling construction accident cases and a commitment to client care. Firms that have represented injury victims in both large-scale public projects and smaller private sites in Harrisburg are more likely to anticipate the challenges you might encounter. A construction accident lawyer Harrisburg workers choose should be ready to explain the process clearly, discuss what types of evidence are most important, and help estimate timelines based on your unique situation.

When evaluating potential attorneys, ask the following questions:

• How familiar are you with construction accident cases in Harrisburg and Dauphin County courts?
• What resources do you use to investigate construction site accidents and determine liability?
• Can you explain the expected process and likely timeframes for a claim like mine?
• Have you handled claims related to injuries on major projects near Harrisburg’s infrastructure, like those along Interstate 81 or Route 322?

Asking these types of questions helps ensure that your representation is well-qualified for your specific context, especially if your accident happened on a local construction site or public project. Having the right construction accident attorney increases your confidence that every aspect of your claim will be handled thoroughly and professionally, reflecting both local and state requirements.

Harrisburg Construction Accident FAQ

What Steps Should You Take After a Construction Accident?

Immediately following a construction accident, the most crucial step is to seek medical attention, even if injuries appear minor. Prompt documentation by a healthcare professional will be essential for both health reasons and any subsequent legal claims. Once medical needs are addressed, report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Employers should provide the necessary forms to report the injury accurately.

It's also wise to document everything related to the accident, including photographs of the scene, equipment involved, and any eyewitness accounts. This documentation will be invaluable should any disputes arise regarding the circumstances of the accident. Consulting with a knowledgeable construction accident attorney can help ensure that you understand your rights and options for obtaining compensation.

How Can Construction Accident Lawyers Help You?

Construction accident lawyers simplify the legal complexities associated with these cases. They gather evidence, manage communication with insurance companies, and work diligently to establish negligence or liability. The goal is to ensure that you receive appropriate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and any additional suffering you may endure.

Furthermore, lawyers with experience in Harrisburg are particularly beneficial because they are familiar with local laws and standards. They can offer insights tailored to regional issues, enhancing the chances of a successful claim. This local experience, combined with comprehensive legal knowledge, provides a robust framework for addressing your construction accident needs.

What If a Construction Accident Was Partially Your Fault?

Pennsylvania courts apply the modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages in a construction accident as long as you're not found more than 50% at fault. However, your final compensation will be reduced by your share of fault. For example, if you're found to be 10% at fault for your injuries, your final verdict would be reduced by 10% to reflect that. 

It's important to know that fault isn't objective; both sides will have a chance to argue how liability should be assigned, but the court will have the final say regarding who is at fault and by how much. It's important to consult a construction accident lawyer to assess the situation accurately. 

Are There Time Limits for Filing Claims?

Yes, Pennsylvania law imposes strict time limits for filing workers' compensation claims and personal injury lawsuits. For workers' compensation, it’s essential to notify your employer within 120 days of the injury, and a claim should be filed promptly to avoid forfeiture of benefits. Personal injury claims generally have a two-year statute of limitations. 

Adhering to these timelines is crucial; missing a deadline can significantly impact your ability to recover under the law. Legal counsel can help ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed timely and accurately, safeguarding your rights and interests during this process.

What Types of Compensation Are Available?

In construction accident cases, compensation can cover various costs, including medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation fees. Additional compensation might be available for pain and suffering, particularly in cases involving severe injuries or negligence. Having an experienced construction accident lawyer can be vital to thoroughly assessing the compensation you are entitled to. They will evaluate your situation comprehensively to identify all damages, ensuring that you receive the full scope of compensation that Pennsylvania law allows.