Construction sites present inherent dangers that can result in life-altering injuries. If you’ve been injured on a construction site in Minneapolis, you have legal rights to compensation.
Robert Wilson & Associates represents injured construction workers throughout the Minneapolis area. Our construction accident attorneys help clients recover damages from negligent parties. We understand construction injury claims and work to secure compensation for your injuries.
We offer free consultations with no upfront fees. You pay only if we recover compensation for you. Call us today at (612) 334-3444 to discuss your construction accident case.
Common Construction Accident Injuries We Handle
Construction accidents occur in various ways, each with the potential to cause serious injury. As a Minneapolis construction accident law firm, we handle cases involving multiple types of accidents and injuries.
Falls from Height
Falls represent one of the most common construction site accidents. Scaffolding collapses, ladder failures, and unprotected edges cause thousands of injuries annually. These falls frequently result in broken bones, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Recovery requires extensive medical treatment and time.
Equipment and Machinery Accidents
Defective or improperly maintained equipment causes severe injuries on construction sites. Crane accidents, power tool injuries, and improperly guarded machinery lead to amputations, crush injuries, and electrocution. Equipment manufacturers, contractors, and site supervisors bear responsibility for maintaining safe equipment. Equipment malfunction is a leading cause of workplace injuries.
Struck-by Accidents
Objects falling from height, vehicle strikes, and equipment impacts cause struck-by accidents. These incidents result in head trauma, internal injuries, and fractures. Victims require immediate medical attention and ongoing care.
Electrocution and Toxic Exposure
Electrical hazards and chemical exposure create additional construction site dangers. Inadequate safety measures expose workers to burns, respiratory damage, and occupational diseases. Toxic substance exposure can develop into serious occupational diseases over time after exposure.
Who Is Liable for Your Construction Accident?
Determining liability is crucial for recovering compensation. Multiple parties may bear responsibility for your construction accident injuries.
General Contractors
General contractors maintain a duty to provide safe work sites. They must enforce safety protocols. Subcontractors bear responsibility for their workers and equipment. Workers’ compensation claims against employers are limited, but third-party claims may be available.
Equipment Manufacturers
Equipment manufacturers face liability when defective machinery causes injury. Property owners may be negligent in providing safe premises. OSHA violations often serve as evidence of negligence and unsafe conditions.
As a construction accident attorney in Minneapolis, we investigate your accident thoroughly. We identify all liable parties. You may pursue workers’ compensation benefits through your employer’s insurance. You can also file third-party claims against other negligent parties. Understanding these distinctions helps maximize your recovery.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims
Construction workers injured on the job typically have two paths to compensation: workers’ compensation benefits and third-party personal injury claims.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system provides no-fault coverage for workplace injuries. Injured workers can receive medical expense coverage and wage replacement (typically two-thirds of lost wages). You also receive permanent disability benefits and vocational rehabilitation. You don’t need to prove negligence to receive these benefits. They’re available regardless of fault. Minnesota workers’ compensation covers medical expenses and lost wages for injured workers.
Third-Party Personal Injury Claims
When parties other than your employer cause your injury, you may sue for full damages. Third-party personal injury claims allow recovery for pain and suffering. Workers’ compensation doesn’t cover pain and suffering. You can pursue claims against contractors, equipment manufacturers, property owners, and other negligent parties. These claims require proving negligence or liability. They often result in larger settlements than workers’ compensation alone.
Our construction accident attorneys evaluate your case to determine which claims apply. Many injured workers pursue both workers’ compensation and third-party claims simultaneously. This approach maximizes total recovery.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Construction accident injuries warrant comprehensive compensation covering all damages you’ve suffered.
Economic Damages
Medical bills and ongoing treatment costs are fully recoverable. This includes emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, and physical therapy. Future medical needs are also recoverable. Lost wages and lost earning capacity compensate you for income lost during recovery. They also address any permanent reduction in earning ability.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical and emotional trauma of your injury. Permanent disability or disfigurement warrants additional compensation. Loss of enjoyment of life recognizes how serious injuries affect your quality of life.
Wrongful Death Claims
When construction accidents prove fatal, families recover compensation for loss of support and companionship. Wrongful death claims recognize the devastating impact of losing a loved one.
Why Choose Robert Wilson & Associates?
Robert Wilson & Associates represents injured construction workers in the Minneapolis area. Founded in 1991, our firm has represented injured workers for over 35 years. Our founder, Robert E. Wilson, has focused his career on helping injured workers recover compensation. He received recognition as a Super Lawyers selection in 2003 and 2004. He also earned a Medal of Valor from the Minneapolis Police Department for his heroism and community service.
Our team includes four experienced attorneys dedicated to workers’ compensation and personal injury law. Roger D. Poehls Jr., our senior attorney, brings 20+ years of experience. He serves as a Qualified Neutral mediator. Daniel C. Swenson, an associate attorney with 10+ years of experience, graduated Magna Cum Laude. He focuses on union worker representation. Grant A. Buchanan, our newest associate, graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Minnesota School of Law. He earned Order of the Coif recognition for academic excellence.
Our firm holds membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. This recognizes our attorneys’ success in securing million-dollar verdicts and settlements. We’re also recognized by the National Trial Lawyers. We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront costs. We offer free consultations available 24/7. We serve Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the Northwest Suburbs.
Minnesota Construction Accident Laws You Should Know
Understanding Minnesota’s legal framework helps protect your rights after a construction accident.
Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system provides no-fault coverage for workplace injuries. Statute of limitations varies depending on your claim type. Workers’ compensation claims have specific deadlines. Third-party claims typically allow 2-3 years to file. Minnesota’s modified comparative fault rule permits recovery even if you’re partially responsible. You can recover as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault.
OSHA safety standards establish minimum requirements for construction site safety. Violations of these standards often constitute negligence. Employers have a duty to provide safe working conditions and proper safety equipment. Employees have the right to refuse unsafe work without retaliation. Understanding these protections helps you recognize when negligence has occurred. OSHA construction regulations are enforced to protect worker safety on job sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a construction accident?
Seek medical attention first, even if injuries seem minor. Report the injury to your employer. Document the accident scene with photos if possible. Gather witness information. Contact an attorney before speaking with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim. Learn more about what to do after a workplace injury.
How long do I have to file a construction accident claim?
Statute of limitations varies by claim type. Workers’ compensation claims have specific filing deadlines. Third-party claims typically allow 2-3 years to file. Contact us immediately to protect your rights. Timely filing is essential.
Can I sue my employer for a construction accident?
Generally, workers’ compensation immunity prevents suing your employer. However, you may pursue third-party claims. You can sue contractors, equipment manufacturers, property owners, and other negligent parties. These parties may be responsible for your injury.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Minnesota’s modified comparative fault rule allows recovery even if you’re partially responsible. You can recover as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. We evaluate your case to determine your recovery potential.
How much does it cost to hire Robert Wilson & Associates?
We work on contingency—no upfront fees. You pay only if we recover compensation for you. This arrangement ensures you can afford legal representation. Your financial situation doesn’t prevent you from getting help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Contact Robert Wilson & Associates Today
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in Minneapolis, Call (612) 334-3444 or visit our website to schedule your free consultation.
We serve Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding areas. Time is critical in construction accident cases. Contact us today to protect your legal rights. Begin your path to recovery now.