Omaha Construction Accident Lawyer
Jobs in the construction industry cover a wide variety of positions including laborers, electricians, and engineers. However, construction sites can be dangerous places to work. Falls and other injuries can be occupational hazards for construction site workers.
If you suffered an injury in a construction accident, you may benefit from legal advice and representation. An Omaha construction accident lawyer can analyze your situation and help you determine whether you are entitled to any compensation. Our dedicated injury attorneys at Inkelaar Law can provide you with tailored legal advice about your specific construction accident or injury.
Regulations for Employers in Omaha
For workplace injuries, including construction accidents, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) can be a valuable resource. OSHA governs many aspects of workplace safety and mandates specific responsibilities for employers, including those who operate construction sites:
- Provide a workplace free of serious hazards;
- Establish adequate safety procedures for employees;
- Report work-related injuries and illnesses; and
- Correct any cited workplace violations.
Anyone can file an OSHA complaint if they believe workplace hazards exist. Such a complaint is confidential and may result in a workplace inspection. OSHA also has the power to levy civil penalties against employers who operate unsafe work environments. These fines can be up to $7,000 for each citation violation or up to $70,000 for each willful violation.
Other Options to Recover Compensation
Other than reporting construction accidents, injured individuals may also have a private right of action against those who own or operate the construction site. Individual lawsuits can involve a variety of legal theories, depending on the facts of each case. Therefore, anyone considering a suit should seek advice from a qualified lawyer before proceeding. An Omaha construction accident lawyer can provide you with counsel on legal claims and defenses that can arise from construction accidents or injuries.
Two common legal theories in injury litigation include intentional injury and negligence. Intentional injury generally involves a situation where a person purposefully injures another. By contrast, negligence generally involves a situation where someone was exposed to unnecessary risks. Some of these risks in construction areas can include the following:
- Exposure to chemicals or radiation;
- Usage of electrical tools or heavy machinery; and
- Usage of ladders or scaffolds.
Contributory Negligence
One potential complicating factor is contributory negligence. According to Nebraska Revised Statute Section 25-21,185.09, any damage caused by plaintiff’s own negligence will proportionally reduce the amount they can collect.
If they were 50 percent more responsible for an accident, they will not be able to collect any damages. As a result, you may wish to seek the advice of a qualified Omaha construction accident lawyer, who can help them understand all potential legal theories and possibilities.
An Omaha Construction Accident Attorney is Ready to Help
Although construction sites can be dangerous places to work, construction accidents can be minimized through adequate training, safety equipment, and vigilance. Until construction accidents are eliminated, however, legal representation may be necessary to protect your rights if you suffered an injury.
An Omaha construction accident attorney at Inkelaar Law is standing by ready to assist you with any legal help you may require. Our attorneys have knowledge and experience and can help you figure out the next steps to take. Be proactive in responding to your construction accident or injury. Contact one of our Omaha construction accident lawyers immediately.