Lawyer for Construction Worker Accidents

Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces.

Every day, builders and laborers face heavy equipment, high scaffolding, and other hazards.

Unfortunately, construction workers in Georgia suffer a high rate of on-the-job injuries and even fatalities. This page is for Georgia construction workers who have been injured on a construction site. If you got hurt while working construction, you have rights under Georgia’s workers’ compensation system. Our goal is to explain how workers’ compensation claims for construction accidents work and how a Georgia construction injury workers’ comp lawyer can help you secure the benefits you deserve. Who is this page for?

It’s for any construction employee – whether you’re a roofer, electrician, carpenter, or heavy machine operator – who was hurt on the job in Georgia. You might be dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about the future. We’re here to guide you. By understanding your rights and options, you can make informed decisions to protect yourself and your family. If you or a loved one were injured on a construction site in Georgia, keep reading to learn how to get the support you need. (Quick tip: You don’t have to go through this alone. If you have questions at any point, feel free to contact Bourne Law Firm for a free consultation. There’s no obligation – we’re here to help.)

Common Construction Accidents and Injuries

Construction work involves heavy physical labor and dangerous environments. Even when everyone follows safety rules, accidents can still happen. Here are some of the most common construction accidents and injuries that lead to workers’ compensation claims in Georgia:

Falls from Heights: Falls are one of the leading causes of serious injuries for construction workers. Whether it’s a fall from a ladder, scaffolding, roof, or other high place, the impact can cause broken bones, head injuries, back injuries, or worse. In fact, falls from ladders or roofs are a top cause of fatal construction accidents. For example, a roofer could slip and fall from a two-story house, or a laborer might trip on debris and tumble into a hole. These accidents are often preventable with proper safety gear and training, but they still occur far too often. If you fell and got hurt on a job site, workers’ comp should cover your medical care and part of your lost wages while you recover.
Equipment and Machinery Accidents: Construction sites are full of heavy machinery, power tools, and vehicles. Accidents involving equipment are unfortunately common[4]. You could be struck by a falling object (like a tool or building material) or hit by a moving vehicle like a forklift or dump truck. You could also get a hand caught in a power tool or be pinned by a piece of heavy machinery. These incidents can cause severe injuries – such as crushed limbs, amputations, or brain injuries – and are a leading cause of construction worker fatalities[5]. For instance, a crane accident might drop a load on workers below, or a poorly secured piece of equipment could collapse. Workers’ compensation covers injuries from these equipment accidents, no matter who was at fault. It provides benefits to help you get treated and financially stay afloat during recovery.
Lifting and Overexertion Injuries: Construction often requires lifting heavy materials like bags of cement, lumber, or machinery parts. Repeated heavy lifting or sudden overexertion can seriously injure a worker’s back, shoulders, or knees. In fact, back injuries are among the most common injuries for construction workers. For example, you might strain your back carrying a heavy load of bricks, or develop a herniated disc after years of repetitive lifting. These injuries can cause chronic pain and might require surgery or extended physical therapy. Don’t ignore aches and pains from heavy labor – if it’s job-related, you have the right to workers’ compensation benefits.
Other Construction Hazards: While falls, equipment accidents, and lifting injuries are the most common issues we see, construction workers face other hazards too. Electricians risk electrocution from exposed wires, welders and cutters can suffer burns, and all construction workers might face dangers like explosions, structural collapses, or exposure to harmful substances. For example, a worker could be electrocuted by a live wire or overcome by toxic fumes in a confined space. These types of injuries can be just as devastating. Remember, Georgia’s workers’ compensation covers any injury that happens in the course of your job – whether it’s a sudden accident or a condition that builds up over time (like hearing loss from loud noise or knee damage from constant kneeling). If it happened because of your construction work, you should be covered.

Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

After a construction accident, you might wonder if you really need a lawyer to handle your workers’ comp claim. Technically, you can file a claim on your own. However, there are many reasons why having an experienced Georgia workers’ compensation attorney on your side can make a big difference.

Protecting Your Rights: The workers’ compensation system in Georgia is supposed to take care of injured workers, but it can be complex. There are strict deadlines, required forms, and specific doctors you have to see. Missing a step could cause your benefits to be delayed or denied. A workers’ comp lawyer knows the ins and outs of the system and will make sure you meet all the requirements so your claim stays on track. We help gather the necessary paperwork, file claims on time, and communicate with the insurance company for you. Dealing with Insurance Companies: Keep in mind that the workers’ comp insurance company is not automatically on your side. Their goal is often to save money, which means they might deny needed medical treatment, argue your injury isn’t work-related, or try to close your case cheaply. Insurance companies often take advantage of workers who don’t have legal representation by delaying or minimizing benefits. You may be offered a low settlement or told you’re not eligible for certain treatments. When you have a lawyer, the insurance company knows you mean business. We negotiate directly with them to make sure you receive all the medical care and wage benefits that you are entitled to under the law. If your claim is unfairly denied or your benefits are cut off too soon, we can challenge those decisions through the proper legal channels.

Maximizing Your Compensation: A workers’ comp attorney will fight to get you the maximum benefits available. In Georgia, workers’ compensation can cover all authorized medical bills, a portion of your lost wages (usually about two-thirds of your average weekly wage), and additional payments if you suffer a permanent disability. Without a lawyer, you might not be aware of all the benefits you qualify for. For example, if you can only return to work on light duty at lower pay, you might be entitled to partial wage benefits to make up the difference. If you have a permanent impairment (like loss of use of an arm or chronic back damage), you could receive a monetary award for that. Our job is to identify every type of benefit you should receive and ensure you get it.

Handling Complex Situations: Sometimes construction accident cases are straightforward, but often they are complicated. What if a third party (not your employer) caused your accident? For instance, maybe a subcontractor’s negligence led to your injury, or a piece of equipment was defective. In Georgia, you generally cannot sue your employer for a work injury, but you can potentially sue other liable parties for additional compensation. An experienced lawyer will investigate your accident from all angles. We determine if you have a separate personal injury claim against a negligent third party in addition to your workers’ comp claim. This is important because workers’ comp benefits are limited – they don’t include pain and suffering or full wage replacement. A separate claim against a third party could let you recover those additional damages. We will advise you on all your legal options so you don’t leave any money on the table. Peace of Mind: Most importantly, hiring a lawyer lets you focus on healing while we handle the legal fight. A serious construction injury is stressful enough with pain, doctor visits, and bills piling up. You shouldn’t have to become a legal expert on top of that. When you work with a workers’ comp lawyer, you can rest easier knowing someone is advocating for you. We keep you updated, answer your questions, and take the burden of dealing with legal deadlines and arguments off your shoulders. In short, our job is to protect your rights and make the process as smooth as possible so you can concentrate on your recovery.

Remember: Initial consultations at Bourne Law Firm are free. If you’re unsure about your claim or have hit a roadblock with the insurance company, give us a call.

At Bourne Law Firm, we understand what you’re going through.

Our Georgia workers’ compensation lawyers have decades of experience helping injured workers, including many construction accident victims. We know that construction injuries can be life-changing, and we are committed to fighting for everything you need to get your life back on track.

Experience with Construction Injury Claims: Our firm has successfully handled countless workers’ comp cases for construction workers across Georgia. From falls off scaffolds to forklift accidents to lifting injuries, we’ve seen it all. This means we know how to investigate construction accidents thoroughly. We gather evidence like accident reports, safety records, and witness statements to build a strong case. We also understand the common tactics that employers and insurers use in construction injury claims, and we know how to counter them. When you hire Bourne Law Firm, you’re getting a team that truly knows construction injury workers’ comp cases inside and out.

Client-Focused Representation: At our firm, you come first. We take the time to listen to your story and understand your needs. No two accidents are exactly alike, so we tailor our approach to your unique situation. Maybe you need a particular medical specialist or you’re having trouble getting an expensive surgery approved – we step in and handle it. We keep in close contact with you throughout the process, so you’re never left wondering what’s happening with your case. Our attorneys will personally answer your questions and make sure you feel supported. You’re not just another case file to us; you’re a hardworking individual who deserves justice and fair compensation.

No Upfront Costs – We Only Get Paid if You Do

We believe every injured worker should have access to quality legal help, regardless of finances. That’s why Bourne Law Firm works on a contingency fee basis for workers’ compensation cases. This means you pay nothing upfront and no out-of-pocket legal fees while we handle your case. We even advance all the costs of investigating and pursuing your claim (for example, paying for medical records or expert opinions). You only pay a legal fee if we succeed in getting you benefits or a settlement. If for some reason we don’t recover money for you, you owe us nothing. This “no recovery, no fee” model lets you get top-notch legal representation without any financial risk. We take on the risk so you don’t have to. Our incentive is fully aligned with yours – we want to win for you, because that’s the only way we get paid.

Bourne Law Firm was founded by attorney Robert Bourne, a recognized expert in Georgia workers’ compensation law. Over the years, our firm has helped thousands of injured Georgians secure the benefits they deserve. We’re proud of our track record of successful outcomes. Insurance companies know our name and know that we prepare every case thoroughly as if it may go to trial. This reputation often helps us settle claims favorably without prolonged litigation, but if a fight is necessary, we are ready to go the distance. We handle cases throughout the entire state of Georgia – from metro areas to rural communities – and treat every client with the same dedication and compassion. When you choose us, you’re choosing a firm with the knowledge, resources, and commitment to handle even the toughest workers’ comp cases.

What to Do After a Construction Accident

If you have been injured on a construction site in Georgia, what you do next can make a big difference in both your health and your workers’ compensation claim. Here are the key steps to take after a construction accident:

Get Medical Attention Immediately: Your health comes first. If you are seriously hurt, don’t hesitate to call 911 or go to the emergency room. Even if you think you can “tough it out,” it’s important to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. Prompt medical care ensures your injuries are properly treated and documented[11]. Some injuries (like head injuries or internal injuries) might not show symptoms right away, so a doctor’s evaluation is crucial. Be sure to tell the doctor or nurse that you were injured at work, so they note that in your medical record. Important: Under Georgia workers’ comp law, your employer may have a list of approved doctors (called a Panel of Physicians) posted at the job site. If it’s not an emergency, you must choose a doctor from that list for your treatment[12]. This list is usually posted in a common area like a break room or near a time clock. If no list is provided or you can’t find it, you may be allowed to see any doctor and still have it covered[13]. When in doubt, ask your supervisor about the workers’ comp doctors or call a lawyer for guidance. Following the authorized doctor rules will help ensure your medical bills are fully covered by workers’ comp.
Report the Accident to Your Employer as Soon as Possible: After you’ve gotten initial medical care, you must notify your employer about the injury. In Georgia, you are required to report a work accident within 30 days[14]. Failing to report within 30 days could jeopardize your right to claim workers’ comp benefits[14]. Don’t delay this – even if you’re in pain or not sure how serious your injury is, tell a supervisor or boss about the accident right away. Provide details about what happened and the injuries you know about. It’s best to do this in writing if possible (for example, an email or an incident report form) so there is a record. If you can, include information like the date, time, location, and how the accident occurred. Also note any co-workers who witnessed it. Reporting the injury not only starts the workers’ comp process, it also helps protect you legally. And remember: it is against the law for your employer to fire or retaliate against you for reporting a workplace injury or filing a workers’ comp claim[15]. Don’t let fear of retaliation stop you from reporting. Most employers in Georgia carry mandatory workers’ compensation insurance for this exact reason – to cover employees who get hurt. By reporting the accident, you are simply asking for the benefits you’re entitled to.
Document Everything: If you are physically able, try to gather evidence about the accident. Take photos of the area where you got hurt, especially if there was a hazard that caused the injury (for example, a broken ladder rung, a spill, or a piece of faulty equipment). If any co-workers saw what happened, get their names and contact information. Write down your own recollection of the incident while it’s fresh in your mind – what you were doing, what went wrong, and how you felt right after. All this information can be very helpful later when filling out forms or if there is any dispute about how you were injured. Also keep copies of any forms you fill out for your employer and any emails or letters related to the accident. If OSHA or any safety investigators come to the site, note that as well. These records will back up your claim. Don’t worry if you can’t collect everything immediately (your health is the priority), but do as much as you reasonably can.
File Your Workers’ Compensation Claim: Reporting your injury to your employer isn’t the same as filing a formal workers’ comp claim, but it starts the process. In many cases, your employer or their insurance company will provide you with the necessary forms (like a Form WC-14 in Georgia) to officially file your claim with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation. Make sure this claim form gets filed. It’s a good idea to consult with a workers’ comp attorney at this stage to ensure the paperwork is done correctly and on time. The claim form will include details about you, your employer, the accident, and your injuries. Once filed, it puts the claim formally in motion so you can start receiving benefits. If you have any trouble getting the claim form or if your employer is not cooperating, contact a lawyer or the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation for help.
Follow Medical Advice and Keep Records: Attend all medical appointments and follow your doctor’s treatment plan. This is important for your recovery and your claim. If you skip appointments or disobey medical orders, the insurance company might argue you’re not really hurt or you’re making your condition worse. Keep notes of how your injury affects you day to day – pain levels, mobility issues, mental stress, etc. Also save receipts or mileage logs for any out-of-pocket expenses related to treatment (like prescriptions or travel to the doctor). Some of these costs might be reimbursable.
Consider Speaking to a Workers’ Comp Lawyer: As we discussed earlier, having a lawyer can protect you from pitfalls and push to maximize your benefits. It’s especially wise to get a legal consultation if your injury is serious, if you’re missing a lot of work, or if you sense any resistance from your employer/insurer (such as delayed checks or denied treatments). Most workers’ compensation attorneys in Georgia (including us) offer a free initial consultation, so it won’t cost you anything to learn your rights. And remember, we only get paid if we win benefits for you, so there’s no financial risk in getting legal help.

By taking these steps, you greatly increase the chances that your workers’ compensation claim will go smoothly and successfully. The period after an injury can be overwhelming, but following the proper steps will protect your health and legal rights.

(Need personal guidance on what to do after your construction injury? Reach out to Bourne Law Firm. We can walk you through the process, step by step. A quick call could answer your questions and prevent costly mistakes.)

Get Help for Your Construction Injury Now

A construction injury can turn your life upside down in an instant. You’ve worked hard in a tough industry, and now it’s time for someone to work hard for you. If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site anywhere in Georgia, don’t wait and worry – take action today to protect your future. The Bourne Law Firm is here to fight for your rights and make sure you get the compensation you need to heal and move forward.

You’ve been there for Georgia’s growth – building our homes, offices, and roads. Now let us be there for you. Call Bourne Law Firm at 770-886-3030.