Construction work is among the most dangerous jobs. If you suffer an injury in this field of employment, it is important to understand the multiple options available for you to seek compensation for your medical costs and related expenses. The following are the main course of action possible:

• File a Workers Compensation Claim — Most employers in Connecticut are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. You must promptly report the injury to your employer and seek medical attention. You will then submit a claim to the Connecticut Workers' Compensation Commission. Eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits requires that the injury was suffered in the course of your job. However, there is no need to prove anyone was at fault. Workers' compensation covers necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation related to the injury. You also are entitled to a portion of your lost wages during the period while you are unable to work. Additionally, you could recover long-term benefits if the injury results in a partial or total disability.
• File for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits — You may be eligible for SSDI benefits if you can prove that your injury is severe enough that it prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity. You must file an application with the local office of the Social Security Administration supported by medical documentation. If you prevail, you could receive monthly payments based on your average lifetime earnings. However, there is a high rate of denial of SSDI benefits claims, very often due to failure to supply sufficient medical records or other necessary evidence. An application for SSDI benefits should not be attempted without the assistance of an experienced attorney.
• File a lawsuit against at-fault third parties — It is possible that your construction accident caused damages greater than what workers’ compensation will cover. Although you cannot sue your employer outside of the workers’ comp system, you can file claims against third parties that may have been partially at fault for the accident. These may include construction site owners and managers, contractors working on the site, operators of motor vehicles on the site and manufacturers of defective equipment. A third-party claim allows for potential recovery of noneconomic damages, which can compensate you for pain and suffering, emotional distress and loss of quality of life. However, you will need to prove that the third-party was at least partially at fault for the accident.

An experienced Connecticut construction accident attorney will gather and analyze the facts of your case, determine all available legal remedies and advise you of the most appropriate course of action to attain the highest level of compensation possible.

The lawyers at Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. in Hamden and East Haven represent workers and bystanders injured at Connecticut construction sites. To schedule a free consultation, please call 203-745-0942 or contact us online.