If you work in a high-risk job site, such as a mining rig or a construction site, it is advisable always to make sure you follow the right safety measures to keep the place safe for everyone. Additionally, you should invest in the right safety gear and always check the equipment and machinery to ascertain that it is not faulty. You should also undergo training on minimizing the risk of slip and falls, fire, and other kinds of accidents.
However, even with all these safety measures in place, accidents happen at construction sites. When they do, you have to follow the right procedure in taking care of those injured. Here are steps to ensure the insurer compensates you for injuries and damages after a job-site accident.
1. Follow the Right Emergency Procedure
The first thing to do to avoid liability after an accident is to follow the proper emergency procedures. First, call 911 and make sure the paramedics get to the site as soon as possible to attend to you and any other persons hurt in the accident.
If you are not severely injured, record the names and contacts of all the people present during the accident and ask for photos and video evidence of what happened. You might need all these people and records when making the personal accident claim.
2. Contact a Competent Lawyer
A lot of things will happen in the moments following an accident. The party responsible for the accident might try to get you to settle before anyone can assess the true extent of your damages and injuries. Similarly, you might be forced to sign waivers and other documents that compromise your settlement.
With a lawyer present, you will not have to worry about making these mistakes. They will assess every document that comes your way and tell you whether it protects your interests or not.
3. Report to the Right Agencies
You will have to report the accident to bodies such as OSHA, Workers' Compensation offices, and any other body concerned with handling the aftermath of personal injuries. If you delay in making the report, you might hurt your case. Having a lawyer helps you do the reporting properly to avoid legal issues.
These are simple steps that can determine your personal injury case settlement process and how much money you will receive. Take time and pick an ideal lawyer to help you avoid pitfalls that could ruin your case progress.
For more information, contact a job site accident lawyer today.