Experienced Atlanta Construction Accident Lawyer
Construction workers have some of the most dangerous jobs. Construction sites are among the most hazardous workplaces, and accidents can lead to serious injuries and financial stress.
If you or a loved one has suffered a construction injury, you may have the right to pursue legal action. At Ross Moore Law, our experienced Atlanta construction accident lawyers are dedicated to helping injured workers recover compensation for their losses.
If you or a loved one have been hurt in a construction accident in Atlanta, contact our legal team today for a free consultation.
Common Construction Injuries and Construction Accidents
Construction workers often suffer severe and life-changing injuries. Some of the most common construction accident injuries include:
- Broken Bones – Often caused by falls, heavy machinery accidents, or being struck by construction materials.
- Head and Brain Injuries – Resulting from falling objects, slip and falls, or faulty equipment.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Occurring due to falls from heights or being crushed by heavy equipment.
- Burns and Electrocution – Due to exposed wiring, electrical malfunctions, or hazardous materials.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries – Caused by prolonged physical labor involving heavy lifting or awkward postures.
- Crush Injuries and Amputations – Resulting from defective machinery, equipment failures, or being caught in machinery.
- Hearing and Vision Loss – Often due to prolonged exposure to loud noises or dangerous chemicals on-site.
There are many dangers in the construction industry. Common types of construction accidents include:
- Falls from Heights – Lack of fall protection can result in severe injuries.
- Scaffolding Accidents – Poorly secured or defective scaffolding can lead to serious injury.
- Falling Objects – Construction materials and tools can strike workers, causing traumatic injuries.
- Heavy Machinery Accidents – Defective machinery or operator negligence can be fatal.
- Electrocutions – Faulty wiring or inadequate safety precautions can lead to electrocution injuries.
- Trench Collapses – Can bury workers under tons of debris, causing catastrophic injuries.
- Slip and Falls – Due to wet surfaces, uneven flooring, or debris on the ground.
- Explosions and Fires – Resulting from hazardous materials or poor handling of construction equipment.
Who May Be Liable in Construction Accident Cases?
Determining liability in a construction accident case can be complex. Multiple parties may be held liable, including:
General Contractors and Subcontractors
Contractors are responsible for ensuring the construction site is safe for workers and visitors. They must comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, enforce safety protocols, and provide proper training and equipment.
If a contractor fails to address known hazards, does not implement fall protection measures, or allows unsafe work conditions to persist, they may be liable for construction accident injuries.
Property Owners
Property owners may be liable if unsafe conditions on the site contribute to an accident. If they are aware of hazards—such as structural defects, poor lighting, or inadequate security—but fail to address them, they could be held responsible.
Equipment Manufacturers
When defective or faulty machinery, tools, or safety equipment cause an accident, the manufacturer may be held responsible under product liability laws. Examples include defective scaffolding, power tools with faulty wiring, or malfunctioning protective gear.
Other Third Parties
Engineers, architects, and suppliers may also share responsibility. Engineers and architects are responsible for ensuring that designs meet safety standards. If a structural failure occurs due to an engineering miscalculation or poor design, they could be held accountable. Similarly, suppliers who provide substandard materials that contribute to an accident may be liable for the resulting injuries.
Workers’ Compensation Claims vs. Personal Injury Lawsuits
Construction workers injured on the job generally have two primary legal options for seeking compensation: filing a workers’ compensation claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. Each option has different requirements, benefits, and limitations.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system designed to provide injured workers with financial support, regardless of who caused the accident. In Georgia, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers:
- Medical Expenses – Covers the cost of necessary medical treatment, including hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
- Wage Replacement – Provides wage replacement benefits if the injury prevents the worker from returning to their job.
- Disability Benefits – Offers compensation for temporary or permanent disabilities resulting from the accident.
- Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits – If a worker is fatally injured, their dependents may receive death benefits, including coverage for funeral costs.
While workers’ compensation provides financial relief, it does not allow workers to sue their employer for negligence or recover damages for pain and suffering.
Personal Injury Claims
If someone else’s negligence caused the construction site accident, you may have the option to file a personal injury lawsuit. Unlike workers’ compensation, personal injury claims require proving fault.
The following may be liable for a construction accident in Atlanta:
- Property Owners – If hazardous site conditions contributed to the accident.
- General Contractors and Subcontractors – If they fail to maintain a safe work environment.
- Equipment Manufacturers – If defective machinery or tools caused the injury.
- Other Parties – Such as engineers, architects, or suppliers whose negligence played a role in the accident.
A personal injury lawsuit allows construction workers to seek full compensation, including compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
An experienced Atlanta construction accident attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and determine the best legal course of action.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Georgia
Under Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws, injured workers must follow these steps:
- Report the Injury – Notify your employer within 30 days of the construction site accident.
- Seek Medical Help – Choose an approved medical provider for treatment.
- File a Claim – Submit a workers’ compensation claim with the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
- Keep Records – Maintain accident reports, medical records, and witness statements.
Workers’ compensation benefits typically cover medical bills, lost wages, and physical therapy, but do not include compensation for pain and suffering.
Compensation in a Construction Accident Lawsuit
After a construction accident in Atlanta, you may be entitled to recover a wide range of damages in a personal injury claim. Compensation may include:
Medical Expenses
Construction accidents often result in serious injuries requiring extensive medical treatment. You may recover compensation for:
- Emergency medical care
- Hospitalization and surgeries
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Medications and medical equipment
- Future medical care
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
You can seek compensation for lost wages while recovering. You can also recover damages for reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your ability to earn at the same level.
Pain and Suffering
Construction accidents can cause significant physical and emotional distress. A personal injury lawsuit allows you to recover damages for:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma.
- Reduced quality of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement, such as amputations or paralysis.
Wrongful Death Cases
If a construction accident results in the death of a worker, the surviving family members may be eligible to seek compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit. Compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
- Medical expenses before death
How an Atlanta Construction Accident Attorney Can Help You
Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers are committed to fighting for the maximum compensation our clients deserve. We will:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly and identify all liable parties.
- Gather strong evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony.
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
- Take your case to trial if necessary.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Deadline to File a Construction Accident Claim in Georgia
In Georgia, personal injury claims, including construction accident lawsuits, must be filed within two years from the accident date. If you wait too long, you risk losing your right to recover compensation. Reach out to an Atlanta construction accident attorney to ensure your claim is filed on time.
Contact Our Law Firm for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident in Atlanta, Ross Moore Law is here to help. Our experienced construction accident lawyers will investigate your case, gather evidence, and fight for the fair compensation you deserve. We handle serious injury cases and wrongful death claims with dedication and compassion.
There are no upfront fees. Our legal team only gets paid after winning compensation for you. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation and learn how we can help.