Philadelphia Roofing Accidents Attorney

Construction consistently ranks in the top two most dangerous industries in the US, with high rates when it comes to both fatalities and injuries. The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that around 980 construction workers are killed every year, representing approximately 1 in 5 of all fatalities across all industries. In Pennsylvania, approximately 9,200 employees in the construction sector suffer injuries annually. The workplace environment is especially risky for roofing contractors, who work at heights, around dangerous equipment, and close to electrical lines.

If you were hurt in a roofing accident, it is a relief to know that Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system provides you with legal remedies. Qualifying employees may obtain monetary benefits, but the process can be challenging. Instead of putting your rights at risk, trust the Quinn Law Group to support you in filing a claim. Our team is knowledgeable about the laws and experienced in working with insurance companies, so please contact us for details. You can schedule a free consultation with a Philadelphia roofing accidents lawyer, though some basics are informative.

Understanding Workers’ Comp Laws

Almost all employees are covered by the state system, which is intended to help injured workers recover from their medical condition and get back to work promptly. Therefore, the laws require employers to carry workers’ comp insurance to pay the claims of employees who suffer from on-the-job medical conditions. As a roofing worker, you do not need to prove that your employer was at fault in causing harm. However, you do need to meet the following requirements:

• You must be a covered employee, as opposed to an independent contractor.
• Your injury must have been caused by a work-related accident while performing job tasks as a roofing worker. Those who suffer from occupational diseases also qualify, which could be an issue for employees in roofing who are exposed to harmful chemicals.

While you do not need to show that your employer’s negligence was behind your work-related medical condition, there is one point to note: Pennsylvania laws dictate that filing a workers’ comp claim is your sole remedy. You are barred from suing in court.

Common Injuries to Roofing Workers

There are numerous hazards on the construction site, and those working on roofs encounter dangers related to the general environment and gravity. One of the biggest concerns is falls from a height, which is why OSHA has implemented standards on fall protection. Other dangers for roofers include overhead power lines, getting caught between objects, being struck by equipment, and accidents involving power tools.

Because of these hazards, roofing workers are at high risk of such injuries as:

• Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions.
• Broken bones, muscle strains, and sprains.
• Head injuries, including concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• Spinal cord trauma.
• Damage to internal organs.
• Amputation.
• Respiratory conditions from inhaling hazardous particles.
• Burn injuries.
• Electrocution.
• Whiplash, herniated or bulging spinal discs, and other soft tissue injuries.

Pennsylvania workers’ comp laws cover these injuries and many others, as well as occupational illnesses. You may be eligible for medical costs, wage replacement, disability benefits, and payments for permanent injuries. When a roofing worker is killed in a construction accident, surviving family members may be entitled to benefits.

Filing a Claim for Workers’ Compensation Benefits

You are required to give your employer notice of a workplace accident within 21 days, at which point the insurance company will review your claim. You might receive benefits right away, but the insurer may deny your claim or offer partial payment. The Quinn Law Group is experienced in discussing settlements with the insurance company, so we will fight to get the workers’ comp benefits you deserve. A Philadelphia roofing accidents attorney will support you by:

• Collecting evidence regarding the construction accident in which you were injured.
• Reviewing your medical records.
• Completing all forms and submitting important evidence to the insurance company.
• Representing you during mediation and other proceedings before the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry.

If dissatisfied with the outcome of the workers’ comp claims process and administrative hearings, we are ready to support you with taking the next legal steps to get proper benefits.

Speak to a Philadelphia Roofing Accidents Lawyer About Next Steps

This summary may help you understand the basics about workers’ comp laws, but the details are equally critical. For more information about your options after a roofing accident, please contact the Quinn Law Group. You can call (215) 709-8923 or check out our website to set up a no-cost consultation with a Philadelphia roofing accident attorney.

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