In recognition of the unique dangers that construction sites pose to workers, federal and state agencies monitor and tightly regulate the working conditions of construction workers. These agencies have developed numerous safety standards that seek to minimize the incidence of falls, electrocutions and other serious accidents. But as workers know, too many managers and supervisors ignore those rules or cut corners in order to save money. That's why the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics consistently reports that construction is one of the most dangerous industries in America, with 13 out of every 100,00 workers dying at work in 2006.

Construction accidents are so common because of the nature of construction work, which uses heavy or complex machinery and often requires workers to climb into high areas. Statistically, falls are the most common accident at construction sites, but other causes of serious construction accidents include falling objects, electrocution, machinery accidents, fires and exposure to toxic chemicals. Victims can die or sustain serious injuries, such as paralysis, amputations, brain damage or broken bones. In addition to the pain and loss of such an injury, it can end a career in construction for good or require months of recovery.

If you were injured at a construction site in Florida, you may be entitled to workers' compensation payments. Workers' compensation pays for medical treatment for a worker who is hurt on the job, and pays a third of his or her wages during any recovery time. This is true regardless of who was at fault, and in exchange for the payments, you agree not to sue your employer over the injury. However, if your employer doesn't carry workers' compensation insurance or tries to stop you from using it, you should talk to Cohn, Smith & Cohn right away for help collecting the money you are entitled to. And if a third party is partly or fully responsible for the injury, you may still be able to sue that party while collecting workers' compensation.

At Cohn, Smith & Cohn, we have more than 35 years of experience representing injured construction workers and others throughout the State of Florida. Our attorneys will review your case with you, explain all of your legal options, and help you recover the cost of your present and future medical expenses, and lost wages. And because we offer free consultations, there's no risk in talking to us about your case.

If you’ve been hurt on the job in Florida, contact Cohn, Smith & Cohn through our confidential online form or call us at 954-431-8100 or 305-624-9186 to set up a FREE consultation.