Tennessee Construction Accident
One in ten construction workers will be injured on the job this year. Tennessee has the seventh-highest construction accident rate in the country, with an accidental rate higher than 50 people per 100,000 residents. When coupled with the way construction accidents can affect a worker's chances of future productivity and the livelihood of his family, these statistics make construction site safety a major priority.
Who Is Responsible for Worksite Safety?
Men are the main victims of construction accidents. These workers face several workplace dangers: electricity, use of heavy equipment, unstable terrain, falling objects, hazardous materials, noxious chemicals, and other hazards. The primary contractor is responsible for worksite safety, as stipulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This designation makes sense, especially if you consider that a contractor is also responsible for training, schedule coordination, and most other construction site affairs. The prime contractor, therefore, must carry insurance and should be informed of any incident or accident as soon as it occurs.
What happens if a subcontractor is on-site during a Tennessee construction accident? Generally, a subcontractor will share responsibility and liability with a prime contractor, but this depends on several factors in the workplace. Sorting through these liability issues can be confusing. With the help of an experienced Tennessee construction accident attorney, you can get help finding out who was at fault in an accident and get you the compensation you deserve. This may include, but is not limited to, damages for attorney's fees, medical bills, costs of future medical care, and the expenses associated with rehabilitation, if any.
Tennessee Workers' Compensation Laws
But civil damages are not the only compensation you can pursue for a Tennessee construction accident injury. The state workers' compensation system covers all injuries sustained at the workplace, regardless of severity. The employer is required to provide a panel of physicians for you to choose from; this applies to specialists as well. Once your injury has healed, your benefits will cease; however, greater benefits may apply in the case of permanent disability. The Tennessee's Workers' Compensation Division administers the workers' compensation program, enforces requirements and mediates disputed claims, but you will probably wish to have a Tennessee construction accident attorney at hand as you pursue compensation for your injuries. While workers' compensation benefits will pay for your medical expenses, by using it, you will give up your right to sue your employer for any other types of damages, including pain and suffering. If you've been injured in a construction accident, it is very important to consult with a Tennessee construction attorney right away.
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