Construction workers in Coon Rapids are at risk of suffering extremely serious injuries while on the job – especially from dangerous machinery and equipment. If you sustained injuries in a construction site accident, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Moreover, if the accident and injuries resulted from a third party’s negligence, you may be eligible for additional compensation.
Our construction accident attorneys At Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law, can review the circumstances of your accident with you, determine your options, and pursue the benefits and compensation you deserve. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Coon Rapids construction accident attorney, please call us at (763) 421-8226 or contact us online for more information.
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Why Select Us for Your Legal Needs?
At Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law, we understand the seriousness of construction site accidents and injuries. While you focus on recovering, we can handle the legal components of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue the workers’ compensation benefits and/or third-party compensation you deserve. Moreover, we are not afraid to pursue litigation in your case if that step becomes necessary.
Our case results speak for themselves, and you can see our most recent client reviews and case testimonials on this site. Our office is conveniently located at 3340 Northdale Blvd. NW, Suite #140, Coon Rapids, MN 55448.
How Much is My Coon Rapids Construction Accident Case Worth?
If you’ve suffered an injury in a construction accident in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, you may be entitled to various types of benefits through workers’ compensation as well as potential compensation from third parties. Here’s a breakdown of what you may receive:
Workers’ Compensation Benefits:
Medical Benefits: These cover all necessary medical expenses related to your injury, including hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and other treatments. Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance should cover these costs without you having to pay upfront.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If your injury prevents you from working, you may be eligible for TTD benefits. These benefits typically replace a portion of your lost wages – around two-thirds of your average weekly wage. TTD benefits are available while you’re recovering and unable to work, but only for a limited time.
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): If you’re able to work in a reduced capacity but still can’t perform your previous job duties, you may receive TPD benefits. These benefits make up for the difference between what you earned before the injury and what you earn now in your modified role.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): If your injury leads to permanent physical limitations, you may qualify for PPD benefits. These benefits are determined based on the severity of your injury and its impact on your ability to perform daily activities or work.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD): In cases where the injury results in complete and permanent disability, PTD benefits can replace lost wages for life. This is typically for cases where a worker is unable to perform any type of work.
Vocational Rehabilitation: If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, you may receive vocational rehabilitation benefits. These can help pay for retraining or education to find a new line of work.
Third-party Compensation:
In some cases, a third party may be responsible for your construction accident, such as a contractor, manufacturer of faulty equipment, or another driver in a vehicle accident. If a third party is found liable for your injury, you may file a personal injury lawsuit to seek additional compensation. This compensation can cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the full amount of lost wages, which workers’ compensation benefits do not fully replace.
By exploring both workers’ compensation and third-party claims, a Coon Rapids personal injury lawyer can help you maximize the compensation you receive for your injuries.
Most Common Locations for Construction Accidents in Coon Rapids
Construction accidents can occur in various locations and situations, often due to the negligence of others. In Coon Rapids, like in many other places, certain areas and conditions are more likely to lead to accidents on construction sites.
- High-Rise and Multi-Story Buildings: Accidents often happen on construction sites involving high-rise buildings or multi-story structures, including near Coon Rapids Boulevard. Workers are exposed to risks like falls from scaffolding, ladders, or unfinished floors. These accidents often result from improperly secured scaffolding, lack of fall protection, or inadequate training on safety measures. In Coon Rapids, these types of projects are common.
- Excavation and Trenching Sites: Excavation and trenching are particularly dangerous areas on construction sites. Cave-ins, falling debris, and equipment accidents are common risks. Workers may become injured if proper safety protocols are not followed, such as failing to shore up walls or provide adequate barriers. In Coon Rapids, construction of infrastructure projects like new roads or utility lines often involves excavation work, making these sites prone to accidents.
- Road Construction Zones: Road construction is another frequent cause of accidents – especially U.S. Highway 10 at Ramsey Boulevard (County Highway 56) and Sunfish Lake Boulevard (County Highway 57), and Round Lake Boulevard from 149th Lane NW to 157th Avenue NW. In Coon Rapids, projects such as road expansions, resurfacing, and utility upgrades create dangerous conditions for both workers and drivers. Negligence in securing the work zone, insufficient signage, or failure to properly direct traffic can lead to accidents involving workers, machinery, or vehicles.
- Heavy Equipment Areas: Construction sites often involve the use of heavy machinery like cranes, bulldozers, and forklifts. Accidents can happen if these machines are operated unsafely or improperly maintained. In many cases, workers may be struck by moving equipment, caught in machinery, or injured due to defective parts or lack of operator training. In Coon Rapids, construction projects that involve large-scale commercial or industrial developments often see these types of accidents.
- Roofing and Elevated Work Areas: Roofing work, or any job requiring workers to operate at heights, presents a significant fall hazard. Accidents can occur due to a lack of fall protection, improperly secured ladders, or defective equipment. In both residential and commercial construction projects in Coon Rapids, roofing accidents are common.
In all of these scenarios, accidents typically arise when employers fail to provide adequate safety training, protective equipment, or proper maintenance of equipment, resulting in injuries to workers.
Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents in Coon Rapids
Construction accidents in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, can often be traced back to the negligence of others. While construction sites are inherently dangerous, many accidents happen because of unsafe practices, inadequate safety measures, or a lack of attention to detail. Here are some of the most common causes of local construction accidents:- Failing to Provide Proper Safety Equipment: One of the most common causes of construction accidents is a failure to provide workers with the proper safety gear. This includes helmets, harnesses, gloves, goggles, and protective footwear. Negligent employers or subcontractors may overlook safety regulations, failing to ensure that workers have the necessary equipment to protect themselves. Without this protection, workers are more vulnerable to falls, head injuries, and other accidents.
- Inadequate Training and Supervision: Inexperienced or improperly trained workers are at a higher risk of accidents. Negligence often occurs when employers fail to properly train workers on how to safely use machinery, handle hazardous materials, or work in dangerous conditions. In Coon Rapids, where construction projects often involve complex tasks, such as electrical work or heavy machinery operation, inadequate training can lead to serious injuries.
- Unsafe Equipment and Machinery: Construction sites rely on a variety of equipment, from cranes to forklifts, but accidents can happen when machinery is not properly maintained or is used incorrectly. Negligent maintenance, such as failing to inspect or repair faulty equipment, can cause mechanical failures or accidents. Workers may be injured if equipment malfunctions, such as a crane losing control or a forklift tipping over.
- Lack of Fall Protection: Falls are one of the leading causes of construction injuries, especially in Coon Rapids, where new residential and commercial buildings are frequently being constructed. Negligence occurs when contractors fail to install proper fall protection systems, such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems. Workers working at heights without adequate protection are at risk of serious injuries or death.
- Negligent Site Conditions: Unsafe working conditions, such as wet, uneven surfaces or poorly marked hazardous areas, can also lead to accidents. If a construction site is not properly maintained, workers may trip, slip, or be exposed to harmful substances. Contractors or property owners who neglect to ensure that the site is safe for workers contribute to these preventable accidents.
Most Common Injuries in a Coon Rapids Construction Site Accident
Construction work in Coon Rapids can be physically demanding and dangerous. Workers on construction sites are at risk of various injuries, many of which can have long-lasting effects. Here are some of the most common injuries that construction workers may suffer due to accidents:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Construction workers are at risk of head injuries, especially if they are struck with falling objects or if they fall from a height. TBIs can range from concussions to more severe damage that leads to long-term cognitive and physical impairments. Employers are required to provide hard hats and other protective gear to reduce the risk of TBIs.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Construction workers often work with heavy materials and machinery, which increases the likelihood of bone fractures. Workers may suffer broken arms, legs, ribs, or even pelvis fractures in accidents involving machinery, falls, or being struck with objects. Fractures may require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and rehabilitation.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Lifting heavy materials, awkward movements, and accidents involving machinery can cause severe back and spinal cord injuries. These injuries may range from muscle strains to herniated discs and, in some cases, permanent paralysis. Workers may be unable to return to their jobs if their spinal cord injuries are severe.
- Cuts, Lacerations, and Amputations: Construction workers are often exposed to sharp tools, heavy machinery, and equipment. Cuts and lacerations are common, but accidents involving power tools or machinery may result in severe injuries, such as amputations. These types of injuries can lead to permanent disability – especially if they involve the loss of a finger, hand, or limb.
- Chemical Burns and Respiratory Issues: Construction sites may use hazardous chemicals, such as solvents, adhesives, and paints. Workers may suffer burns or respiratory issues if they come into contact with these substances without the proper protective gear. Prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals can also lead to long-term health problems, including lung disease or chemical poisoning.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a Coon Rapids Construction Accident Case
If you’ve suffered an injury in a construction accident in Coon Rapids, fighting the insurance company for your workers’ compensation benefits or third-party compensation can be difficult. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but we at Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law are here to stand up for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.- Thorough Investigation: To build a strong case, we will begin by thoroughly investigating the accident scenario. This includes reviewing accident reports, obtaining medical records, interviewing witnesses, and assessing the site of the injury.
- Negotiating a Fair Settlement: Insurance companies often try to offer a low settlement in hopes that you’ll accept it without fully understanding your rights. We will carefully review any offer to ensure it reflects the true value of your claim. If necessary, we’ll negotiate on your behalf for a fair and just settlement that covers your losses.
- Fighting Denied or Delayed Claims: Sometimes, insurance companies wrongfully deny or delay claims, leaving you without the support you need. If your workers’ compensation claim is denied or benefits are delayed, we will appeal the decision and take action to secure the benefits you’re entitled to recover.
- Pursuing Third-party Claims and Lawsuits: If a third party, such as a contractor, manufacturer, or other entity, contributed to the accident, you may be eligible for additional compensation through a third-party claim or lawsuit. We can help you pursue this claim in addition to your workers’ compensation case, maximizing your recovery.
Most Important Steps to Take after a Construction Accident in Coon Rapids
After a construction accident in Coon Rapids, taking the right steps is important to ensuring you receive proper compensation and care. Here are the most important actions to take:- Seek Ongoing Medical Attention: Completing your treatment regimen is important for your recovery – and for documenting the full extent of your injuries.
- Report the Accident: Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. This is essential for filing your workers’ compensation claim. Make sure the report is in writing, and keep a copy for your records.
- Consult with a Coon Rapids Construction Accident Attorney: At Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law, we will guide you through the complexities of workers’ compensation and third-party claims, ensuring that your rights are protected.
