It is not often recognized that those who perform physical labor for a living, like construction workers, face so much adversity. That is, they are often left in vulnerable positions where accidents are highly likely. More specifically, scaffolding accidents occur far too often on construction sites throughout the state of Florida. Read on to discover what legal rights you have after your scaffolding accident and how a seasoned Tampa work injury lawyer at Merricks Law Group can work to build a solid strategy.
What types of scaffolding accidents commonly occur in the state of Florida?
Like any personal injury accident, scaffolding accidents commonly occur due to the negligence of employers or third parties. That is, they do not take the proper safety measures to ensure that the employees are well protected when they are on the job. Specific examples of such negligence include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Employer negligence:
- They fail to follow OSHA guidelines.
- They fail to install overhead protection.
- They fail to properly secure scaffolds.
- Manufacturer negligence (i.e., third-party negligence):
- They distribute malfunctioning breaks.
- They distribute defective or unsafe scaffolds.
- They distribute defective equipment, like pulleys and fall safety systems.
Am I eligible to file a scaffolding accident claim?
If you were injured in a scaffolding accident that was due to no fault of your own, then you have a right to file a claim. For this, you must collect enough evidence to prove that your injuries were directly caused by the negligence of another party. So, you must take the following approach immediately after your accident occurs.
- Call 911: a law enforcement officer will arrive at the scene, conduct a police report, and dispatch an ambulance. From here, request a copy of your police report.
- Record the scene: take photos and videos of your injuries, damages, and the hazards that caused your accident. From here, ask present witnesses if they have any recordings.
- Attend medical treatment: go to the ambulance at the scene and also schedule follow-up appointments with your physician. From here, request copies of your medical bills, along with a doctor’s note that states the date, time, and severity of your injuries.
- Retain the services of a competent Hillsborough County personal injury lawyer: we can help you obtain additional evidence, like surveillance camera footage of your accident occurring. From here, you must file your claim before Florida’s statute of limitations, which is generally four years from the date of your accident.
Contact Our Experienced Florida Firm
Merricks Law Group handles a wide array of injury claims, including injuries sustained in auto accidents, slip and falls, and more. Contact Merricks Law Group today.
