Construction accidents can be tragic and costly. These are among the most common types of injuries in NYC. Construction workers are required to wear safety gear, but this still doesn’t protect them from all dangers.
One of the most challenging aspects is finding a qualified construction accident lawyer who has experience with cases like yours. The legal process can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are the main things you need to know about construction accident claims in NYC to avoid making mistakes when filing your documents.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
The first thing you should do after an accident is to seek medical care. If you fail to seek immediate care, it can make it more difficult for your attorney and the insurance company because they won’t know the extent of your injuries and how they impact your daily life. Thus, it may be more challenging to get the compensation you deserve without proper medical documentation and records.
Report the Accident to the Construction Company
You need to report a construction accident immediately so that your employers can document it. The insurance company needs time to investigate, so have patience. However, your work documents can make your claim stronger if the construction company tries to cover up any evidence of how it happened. You will want documentation from witnesses and pictures of the scene.
Gather Evidence
The insurance company will want evidence to prove that the accident was not your fault. This can include medical records, witness statements, and pictures of the scene. If you cannot return to work, you will also need to provide proof of lost income. The more evidence you have, the better your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Sign your Name to Any Report After the Doctor’s Examination
If the insurance company presents you with a form to sign, don’t do it until you ask a construction accident lawyer in New York. It would help if you also told your doctor not to give out any information about the actual cause of the injury without your consent. Even if you were hurt by something at work, it could be helpful if you could file claims for defective equipment or dangerous conditions.
Be Honest When Speaking to the Insurance Company
If someone from the insurance company calls you, make sure you tell them the entire story. Don’t try to hide anything because this could lead to a severe reduction in your settlement. If they catch you in a lie, it will hurt your credibility and lower the compensation amount.
Don’t Talk to the Insurance Company Until You Speak with an Attorney
It’s in your best interest to speak with a lawyer before you give any statements or documentation to the insurance company. The claims adjuster may try to get you to make a statement, but it can be used against you later. If there are contradictions in your story, this can weaken your claim. It’s essential to have an advocate who can help you through the process.
Wait to Settle Your Claim
The insurance company will try to settle your claim as fast as possible to pay out less money, which means a lower compensation for you. You should never accept an early settlement because your lawyer needs time to build the strongest case possible and negotiate the best deal. If you hurry and settle too soon, you could end up with a lot less money than you deserve.
Final Thoughts
These are the main aspects you need to know about construction accident claims in New York to avoid making mistakes when filing your claim. Don’t be pressured into accepting a settlement too early because it might not be fair compensation for your injuries and suffering.
Instead, find a good New York lawyer who has experience with construction accident cases and let them handle the negotiations for you. You can get the money you need to cover your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages with the right evidence.
