Report Says Most Workers' Comp Claims Linked to New Construction Companies
Our attorneys reveal what you should know
Construction accidents can happen to any worker on any job site, but are there more risks for employees at newer companies?
According to a recent report, newer construction companies indeed do see a higher volume of workers' compensation claims compared to older firms.
The report finds construction businesses that were less than four years old made up three-quarters of the workers' compensation claims paid out in the sector.
Business Insurance details a report by AmTrust Financial Services Inc., an insurance company, which looks at common injuries resulting in time off from work. Researchers looked at 26,000 workers' compensation claims spanning a 10-year period.
Here are some of the findings:
- Less experienced employees pose the greatest injury risk
- More workers' comp claims are filed in the summer than in the winter, which is likely a result of the seasonal nature of construction work
- “Sunbelt” states like Arizona and Florida, where construction jobs are scheduled throughout the year, comprise the most historical losses
Which types of workers face the biggest injury risk?
Twenty-eight percent of the claims involved plumbers, while 19% of the claims were made by electricians.
The following are the most common accidents/injuries reported:
- Slip, trip, or fall accidents
- Muscle strains from heavy lifting
- Burn injuries
Construction work is dangerous, whether you’re working for a new company or one that’s been in business for decades. In Mississippi, you can file a workers' compensation claim if you’re injured in an on-the-job accident or develop a work-related illness. The claim will cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatment, such as:
- Hospitalization
- Doctor visits
- Prescription medication
- Physical therapy
- Any needed home care
What to do if you're hurt at work
Anyone who's injured in a workplace accident has the right to pursue workers' compensation benefits, but there are some steps to take after the injury:
- Report the injury or illness: The law requires you to report the incident within 30 days, but don’t delay. Notify your employer about the accident in writing as soon as possible to avoid questions about whether you were hurt at work or somewhere else.
- Go to a doctor: Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel OK. Some serious work injuries are not immediately apparent after the accident.
- Contact a workers' compensation lawyer: After an accident at work, an attorney can listen to what happened and help you decide the best way forward. Navigating the workers' comp process can become complicated. The insurance company and/or your employer might argue you should return to work when you still need time to recover at home. Your claim might get denied, or your benefits could fail to be paid promptly. And if you're not careful, you could miss out on the workers' comp benefits you need and deserve.
Let a workers' comp attorney review your case for free
At Tabor Law Firm, P.A., there’s no obligation when you contact our legal team. We will review your accident, and if you decide to hire us, we will put our experience and resources to work for you right away so you can focus on your recovery while we work on maximizing your benefits.
You don't have to face this on your own. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Mississippi workers' compensation lawyer.