It’s not a secret that construction sites are a dangerous work environment. Despite the stringent safety regulations, accidents still happen. If you have been injured on a construction site in New York, it is crucial to understand your legal options. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know about these matters and how an experienced Queens Third Party Negligence Attorney can help you fight for the justice you deserve.
Who Can I Sue After a Construction Accident in New York?
If you have suffered an injury in a New York construction accident, you can initially seek relief through a workers’ compensation claim. While workers’ compensation covers medical costs and a portion of lost income if your injuries render you incapable of fulfilling your employment duties, regardless of fault, it does not compensate for your non-economic damages. That said, it is crucial to explore all available legal options to ensure you recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
In certain situations, you may pursue a third-party lawsuit against at-fault parties, which can include property owners, general contractors, equipment manufacturers, and equipment rental companies. To determine the most effective legal strategy for your specific circumstances, it is strongly recommended to consult a Queens third-party negligence attorney at the Law Offices of George Poulos.
What Should I Know About Third-Party Lawsuits?
When it comes to workers’ compensation, in exchange of benefit your forefit the right to sue your employer directly for your accident or illness. However, a third-party lawsuit can be filed against multiple entities.
For a successful outcome, you will need to prove that the defendant:
- Duty of Care: You carry the burden of proving the third party had a legal obligation to act reasonably to safeguard you from harm.
- Breach of Duty: You will need to show that the third party failed to uphold their duty of care.
- Causation: You will also need to connect the third party’s negligent act directly to your injury.
- Damages: Finally, you must demonstrate that you suffered actual, quantifiable losses.
It should be noted that if you opt for a third-party lawsuit after or while receiving medical care and financial support for lost income, you could be responsible for the reimbursement of said support if the insurer asserts a lien against future rewards. An attorney can help coordinate your workers’ compensation claim and third-party lawsuit to ensure you don’t jeopardize your benefits or settlement.
If you have been injured at work due to a negligent third party, please don’t hesitate to contact our firm to schedule a consultation. At the Law Offices of George Poulos, we are prepared to help you fight for the justice you deserve.