A Construction Accident Lawyer in Everett MA represents workers who have been injured on the job but were not employed by the company in charge of the project or the subcontractors doing specific tasks. In the terms of the Internal Revenue Service, many construction workers are essentially considered self-employed as they work on a 1099 basis instead of as a W-2 employee. This means they are not eligible for workers compensation benefits.
A Brief History
The frequency of construction accidents has decreased dramatically over the past 40 years thanks, in large part, to the Occupational Safety and Health Act signed into law by President Richard Nixon in 1970. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration was established in 1971 and develops and oversees standards intended to keep every worker safe. Since that time, workplace fatalities have decreased by more than 60 percent and injuries by 40 percent.
When Standards Are Not Followed
In many instances, a construction accident occurs because OSHA standards were not followed. The company may not provide the required safety gear. Supervisors may encourage workers to ignore certain safety steps in the interest of speed and efficiency. Fully complying with OSHA standards costs companies extra money. To OSHA representatives, it can feel like an ongoing battle. The reps are often frustrated by the lack of cooperation.
A Common Type of Incident
A Construction Accident Lawyer in Everett MA is likely to feel frustrated as well when discovering the faulty equipment and procedures that led to the client’s serious injuries. Falling from roofs, scaffolds, cranes, and other structures far off the ground is a common cause of bone fractures and head injuries. Nearly all of these incidents could be prevented by following the standards.
Seeking Legal Assistance
The company and its insurer may try to place blame on the worker for agreeing to go along with unsafe conditions and not protesting the situation. Workers who need help with the process of acquiring compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses may contact an organization such as the Law Offices of Burton J. Hass for assistance. Visit the website to get started. You can also visit them on Facebook.
