Three Massachusetts workers were recently injured in a construction accident. According to reports, a roof fell inside the 33-story building where they were working, causing several floors to fall on top of one another in a chain reaction. There were 120 employees inside the building when the incident occurred, and, luckily, the three who were injured suffered nonlife-threatening injuries. Yet, this does not mean their injuries are not serious. One victim suffered a head injury, one injured his wrist and the third victim suffered minor injuries – specifics about the minor injuries are unknown. OSHA is investigating the accident.
Injuries like these may prevent a worker from returning to his job for some time in order to give his or her body time to heal. Unfortunately, taking time off can cost a worker wages and, if the injury requires treatment, medical expenses. This combination often leaves employees in a tough situation where it may be difficult to pay the bills.
Fortunately, the workers’ compensation system exists to help those who are injured on the job. To recover the money they need, works must show they suffered an injury through an accident that arose out of and within the scope of their employment. It may sound easy, but sometimes insurance companies deny a worker’s claim, leaving him or her feeling stranded.
The good news is that even if an individual receives a denial, the fight for compensation is not over. These workers can challenge the denial. A lawyer experienced with handling work-related injury cases can help gather the necessary evidence to give the worker the best possible chance of success. Then, if the denial is overturned, the worker may receive the money he or she needs to cover lost wages and medical expenses. Additionally, these claims help raise awareness of unsafe working conditions and pressure employers to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
Source: The Boston Globe, “Two workers injured in construction accident; OSHA to investigate,” Andrew Ryan and Meghan E. Irons, March 20, 2014
