Construction accidents pose significant risks, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reporting that they account for 21.1% of all workplace fatalities in the private sector, resulting in over 1,000 deaths annually in the United States alone. This alarming statistic highlights the importance of gathering any available evidence following a construction site incident.
There are numerous types of evidence an individual is encouraged to compile after their construction accidents, which is beneficial in protecting their legal rights. Doing so may allow them to pursue a personal injury claim to receive fair compensation for injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages.
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1. Photographs and Videos of the Accident Site
Construction site conditions can change rapidly. Take extensive photographs or videos of the accident scene, including equipment involved, safety violations, weather conditions, and any warning signs (or lack thereof). It can help juries visualize the scene and understand the circumstances surrounding an incident, which can significantly influence trial outcomes.
2. Written Documentation and Reports
Incident Reports
Ensure that an official incident report is filed with your employer and request copies of all official reports filed about your accident. This document serves as reliable evidence in court.
Medical Records
Keep thorough records of all medical treatments received, including emergency visits, follow-ups, prescribed medications, and therapy sessions.
3. Witness Information
Contact Details & Written Statements
Collect names, phone numbers, and email addresses of anyone who witnessed the accident and obtain written statements from witnesses while their memories are fresh. These statements should be dated and signed. Eyewitness testimony is noted to be crucial in personal injury cases as additional perspectives on the incident by helping establish liability. They can support the injured party's claims and add
4. Physical Evidence
Equipment and Materials
Preserve any equipment or materials involved in the accident. "Physical evidence" includes tools, safety equipment, or defective materials that may have contributed to the incident. Ensure to document serial numbers and take photographs before anything is moved or repaired.
Worksite’s Safety & Maintenance Regulations
Gather safety meeting records, maintenance logs, site plans, safety protocols, building permits, and OSHA inspection reports. These various records provide insight into safety practices, maintenance, and compliance with regulations at the time of the accident.
5. Digital Evidence
Electronic Communications
Save all relevant emails, text messages, or other electronic communications regarding safety concerns of the accident itself. It has to include all correspondence between supervisors, employees, and safety officers regarding potential hazards or previous accidents to show if it was an act of negligence or otherwise.
Surveillance Footage
If available, request copies of any security camera footage that may have captured the accident. Many construction sites have surveillance systems that automatically delete footage after a certain period, so it’s important to act quickly.
Get Compensation After a Construction Accident in New York
Our seasoned personal injury lawyers can help you get started.
Compensation for Construction Accident Victims
Unlike workers' compensation, personal injury claims allow you to seek a wider range of damages, addressing both economic and non-economic impacts of your injuries, such as:
| Compensation | Description |
| Hospital and Surgery Costs | Covers medical expenses for emergency room visits, surgeries, and hospital stays related to your injury. |
| Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy | Includes costs for physical therapy sessions needed to regain mobility and function after your accident. |
| Medication and Medical Devices | Encompasses expenses for prescription medications, braces, crutches, and other medical equipment essential for your recovery. |
| Ongoing and Long-Term Care | For severe injuries that require extended care, such as ongoing rehabilitation or at-home medical support. |
| Psychological and Emotional Support | Covers therapy costs for mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, or depression that may arise from the accident. |
| Pain and Suffering | Non-economic damages for emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other impacts on your quality of life. |
This compensation can significantly aid in your recovery process and help secure your financial stability during this challenging time. We at Porter Law Group can assist in gathering evidence, officially filing your case, and negotiating fair compensation for you and your loved ones.
Contact a Construction Accident Attorney Today
Time is critical when gathering evidence after a construction site accident. The Porter Law Group specializes in construction accident cases and can help ensure all crucial evidence is properly collected and preserved.
Contact us at 833-PORTER9 or email info@porterlawteam.com for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Let our experienced team help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve for your construction site accident injuries.
