Falling objects pose a serious threat to workplace safety. Being suddenly struck by an object ― whether it’s a falling tree, beam on a construction site, or items stacked high in an office storeroom ― can lead to disabling injuries and even death. The most current labor statistics show 237 workers died and around 90,000 others suffered injuries in dropped or falling object- accidents in a recent year.
Georgia law allows eligible employees to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits after an on-the-job injury. These benefits cover an employee’s medical expenses, a portion of their lost wages, and disability benefits while they recover. Families who lost a worker in a falling-object accident can also pursue death benefits to provide financial support for their loss.
Getting the workers’ comp benefits you need after a falling-object accident is not always straightforward. Fortunately, the workers’ compensation attorneys at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. always put people first. Call, chat with us live, or fill out a contact form for a free consultation today.
Where Do Falling-Object Injuries Occur?
A falling-object injury could occur anywhere, even in public areas. Some of the most common causes of falling-object cases include:
- Overstacked products or materials
- Inadequately secured merchandise
- Unsecured cargo on cars and commercial trucks
- Poorly maintained ceiling or roofing
- Dropped tools, equipment, or machinery
Falling-object accidents are prevalent on construction sites, in industrial facilities, and during logging operations. Severe injuries may be due to:
- Improperly rigged loads
- Unqualified riggers or crane operators
- Insufficient communication when using cranes or forklifts to lift heavy objects
- Faulty equipment
- Failure to inspect lifting equipment before using it
- Failing to install toeboards around grating or scaffolds
- Failing to install orange “snow fencing” around scaffolds or temporary work platforms
- Failing clean up supplies and debris on elevated platforms
- Carelessness while working at upper elevations
- Failing to place barricades or use spotters below elevated work areas
- Failing to use tool lanyards or other devices to secure tools at elevation
- Falling trees, branches, and tops
Types of Injuries Caused by Falling Objects
The horror of falling-object cases is that most accidents catch employees completely by surprise. For that reason, workers have little time to react to avoid the accident or guard against serious harm. Examples of injuries caused by falling objects include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Skull fractures
- Neck injuries
- Back and spine injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Crush injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
If you suffered a severe or catastrophic injury due to a falling-object accident at work, you could face a long road to recovery ― or have no guarantee about making a full recovery at all. With your financial stability and job future on the line, you need a workers’ compensation attorney to evaluate your needs and push for the full and fair benefits you deserve.
Georgia law provides benefits to qualifying employees regardless of fault as long as the injury is work-related. But in exchange for these no-fault benefits, you cannot sue your employer for negligence. However, it may be possible to file a personal injury lawsuit if a third party is responsible for the accident.
For example, if a subcontractor on a construction site negligently left equipment in a dangerous place and it fell on you, you could have a separate personal injury case. The advantage of a personal injury claim is that you could recover money for additional compensation for losses that aren’t possible in a workers’ compensation claim, such as pain and suffering.
What To Do If You Have Been Injured by a Falling Object
The steps you take after a job accident can make or break your workers’ compensation claim. You should:
- Seek immediate medical attention for any falling-object injury. Gravity adds momentum to any falling object, increasing the force of impact on your body. Your injuries could be more serious than they seem.
- Notify your supervisor: The Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation requires you to report the accident immediately and no later than 30 days after it occurs to be eligible to seek worker’s compensation benefits. Put the notification in writing to document your claim.
- Gather relevant documentation: Other paperwork needed to build a strong claim include proof of employment, doctor’s notes, medical records, medical bills and other receipts, rehabilitation visits, and more.
- Contact an experienced workers’ compensation accident attorney. Many people receive denials after submitting their first application for benefits. Sometimes it’s a clerical error or due to missing information. Other times, it’s because your employer or its insurance company unfairly deny you the benefits you rightly deserve. An attorney can prepare your application or appeal and represent you through the entire process. Because every injured worker’s situation is different, you need to discuss the specifics of your case with a knowledgeable lawyer who can determine what your case needs for the outcome you are aiming for.
Talk to a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Albany
No one can anticipate a job injury, but Georgia law should protect you if you do get hurt. If you sustained a falling-object injury at work, talk to an Albany workers’ compensation lawyer at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. now. We’re here to ensure you understand your rights and hire the qualified counsel you need to obtain maximum seeking workers’ compensation benefits.
While your employer or its insurer might try to eliminate or cut your recovery short, our attorneys put your interests above all else. Our goal is to help you secure the benefits you need to get treatment and recover from your injury without struggling financially.
Call or contact us today to speak with a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer.
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