When faced with the fallout of being injured in a construction accident, finding the right Scranton construction accident lawyer is vital. This resource is designed to tackle your queries about legal representation directly, explain the importance of local expertise, and outline your options for compensation. Our goal is to empower you with the information you need, without the fluff, to take the next step in your recovery.
$32 Million Wrongful Death
$26 Million Truck Accident
$20 Million Commercial Vehicle Accident
$17.5 Million Car Accident
$12 Million Work Injury
$11 Million Truck Accident
$9 Million Truck Accident
$8 Million Truck Accident
$8 Million Truck Accident
$7.5 Million Auto Accident
$6.9 Million Garbage Truck Accident
$6.5 Million Traumatic Brain Injury
Why Choose a Scranton Construction Accident Lawyer?
After a construction accident, selecting the right legal representation can determine the outcome of your recovery and compensation. Munley Law offers distinct advantages that make us the trusted choice for construction accident victims in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Local Expertise That Makes a Difference
Construction accidents in Scranton fall under specific local regulations and safety standards that directly affect liability and compensation. Our attorneys know Scranton’s construction safety guidelines inside and out, particularly those preventing fall injuries—a major hazard on construction sites. This local expertise helps us clearly establish who bears responsibility for your accident and how to maximize your claim.
Unmatched Credentials and Experience
Since 1959, Munley Law has represented construction accident victims throughout Scranton, building an exceptional reputation over 65 years. Our attorneys hold certification as specialists in workers’ compensation law by the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Section on Workers’ Compensation Law—a certification authorized by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Additionally, our personal injury lawyers have earned board certification in multiple categories from the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a distinction held by fewer than 3% of attorneys nationwide. This dual expertise in both workers’ compensation and personal injury law proves invaluable for construction accident cases, which often involve both workers’ compensation and third-party claims.
Trial-Ready Representation
While many injury attorneys only seek settlements, our board-certified trial lawyers prepare every case as if it will go to court. This thorough preparation leads to stronger settlement offers, but when needed, we have the courtroom experience to present your case effectively before a jury. Our membership in respected legal organizations, including the International Society of Barristers, the Summit Council, and the American Board of Trial Advocates, highlights our litigation excellence.
Personalized Approach to Your Case
We understand that each construction accident case presents unique circumstances. Our work begins with listening carefully to your experience. We then collect comprehensive evidence—including witness statements, video footage, and expert testimony—to build a compelling case tailored to your specific situation. This personalized strategy has consistently delivered multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for construction accident victims.
Beyond legal expertise, we provide supportive guidance throughout your recovery. We handle all aspects of your case while you focus on healing, keeping you informed during each phase of the process. Our consultations are always free, and we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Types of Construction Accidents in Scranton, PA
Construction sites abound with potential risks. While safety measures are typically in place, accidents can and do happen. In Scranton, some construction site accidents are more common than others. These include scaffolding and ladder accidents, vehicle and heavy equipment incidents, and trench collapses.
Often, these accidents stem from improper use of hazardous equipment or the incorrect handling of heavy machinery, causing severe injuries. The consequences can be devastating, ranging from crushed limbs or fingers to the necessity of amputation, and in the worst cases, can even lead to wrongful death.
Scaffolding and Ladder Accidents
Accidents involving scaffolding and ladders pose a major risk on construction sites. These accidents typically occur due to insufficient safety measures or faulty or dangerous equipment used, leading to serious injuries. Proper safety training is vital to prevent such accidents. The law mandates that a qualified person conduct safety training for scaffolding, which includes identifying electrocution, fall, and falling object hazards.
Construction workers must be provided with ladders and scaffolds in good condition, along with the necessary safety equipment and proper training. Unfortunately, the misuse of equipment, improper construction, or maintenance of scaffolding can contribute to such accidents.
Vehicle and Heavy Equipment Incidents
Another common cause of construction accidents in Scranton is incidents involving vehicles and heavy equipment. Such incidents often result from operator error or equipment malfunction, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities.
Common equipment malfunctions involve using defective equipment and tools such as nail guns, sanders, saws, drills, and pumps. There are also issues related to electrical systems, hydraulics, lubrication, undercarriage, thermal components, and materials suffering corrosion and fatigue. These malfunctions can lead to burns, slips or trips, injuries in different body parts, and falls.
Trench Collapses
The potential for trench collapses represents a particularly perilous aspect of construction accidents. These collapses often result from inadequate safety precautions or improper excavation techniques, leading to catastrophic injuries or even fatalities. In Scranton, regulations are in place to prevent such accidents. Protective systems are required for five feet deep or more trenches, unless the trench is in stable rock.
Despite this, trench collapses occur quite often, leading to serious injuries such as asphyxiation, crushing injuries, internal organ damage, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). In 2022 alone, there were 39 reported deaths nationally in trenching and excavation work, underscoring the risks and impact of these accidents.
Pursuing Financial Compensation for Construction Accident Injuries in Scranton
Victims of construction accidents may be eligible for financial compensation. This compensation can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering from work-related injuries. Victims can pursue this compensation through workers’ compensation claims and personal injury lawsuits.
However, there are limitations to what workers’ compensation can cover. For instance, victims cannot seek damages for pain and suffering under workers’ compensation. On the other hand, personal injury lawsuits can offer additional workers’ compensation benefits and ensure accountability for those responsible.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
Workers’ compensation serves as your financial safety net when you’re hurt on the job. These benefits typically cover your medical bills and replace about two-thirds of your lost wages while you recover. However, you should know that workers’ comp doesn’t pay for your physical pain, emotional suffering, or reduced quality of life. This means you might not receive full compensation for everything you’re experiencing after a work injury in Scranton.
To be eligible for a workers’ compensation claim, you need to:
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
- File the claim within 120 days of the incident.
- If your employer denies your claim or fails to take action, you may file a claim petition within three years.
Personal Injury Lawsuits
When you’re hurt in a construction accident in Scranton, a personal injury lawyer can help you get more than just workers’ comp. Your Scranton personal injury lawyer can fight for money to cover:
- pain and suffering
- medical expenses
- lost wages
- future medical care
- rehabilitation costs
In addition, personal injury lawsuits can hold the negligent parties accountable for their actions.
Filing a personal injury lawsuit involves a handful of steps. Here are the key steps to follow:
- Get medical attention for your injuries.
- Let your employer know about the injury.
- File a claim petition if needed.
- It’s important to note that a statute of limitations exists for filing a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania. You have two years from the accident date to file your claim.
Challenges in Scranton Construction Accident Cases
Construction accident cases come with specific difficulties. Two major hurdles you might face include:
Proving Negligence
To win your case, you need evidence showing someone failed to maintain safety standards, which directly caused your injuries. This might involve gathering witness statements, accident reports, and safety violation documentation. Proving negligence is a key aspect of a construction accident case. You need to show that the party at fault had a duty of care, breached that care, and that the breach resulted in your injuries.
In the context of construction accidents, duty of care means that construction companies, contractors, and property owners have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of workers and other individuals at the construction site. Breaches of duty of care in common construction site accidents can include:
- Reckless behavior
- Negligence
- Contract breaches
- Poorly constructed buildings or objects
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often focus on protecting their profits. They might offer you a quick but low settlement or question whether your injuries happened at work. Having someone who understands these tactics can help you get fair compensation. Dealing with insurance companies can often pose challenges in a construction accident case. They may employ a variety of tactics to minimize payouts and deny claims.
Insurance companies may employ tactics such as:
- Making early settlement offers
- Blaming the victim
- Prolonging the settlement process
- Utilizing workers’ compensation adjuster tricks
It’s important to have a skilled lawyer from Munley Law on your side to overcome these obstacles and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
What to Expect During Your Free Case Evaluation
When you call a construction accident lawyer for your free case review, they’ll ask specific questions about your injury. You’ll discuss exactly how the accident happened, which safety rules might have been broken, and what injuries you suffered.
Your lawyer needs to know who was in charge of the worksite, whether it was the general contractor, subcontractor, or property owner. They’ll ask about your medical treatment, how much work you’ve missed, and how your injuries affect your daily activities.
To help your case, bring these specific items to your meeting:
- Medical records showing your diagnosis and treatment plan
- Photos of the unsafe condition that caused your accident
- Names and contact information of witnesses
- Accident reports filed with your employer
- Any communication from insurance companies
This detailed conversation helps your lawyer calculate the true value of your claim and develop a plan to get you fair compensation for your specific injuries and losses.
Gathering Information
The lawyer uses the free case evaluation to collect all pertinent information, building a solid foundation for your case. This includes important evidence like photos and videos of the accident scene, witness statements, and other pertinent information.
Witness statements are particularly important as they provide firsthand accounts of the incident. This information is critical in determining what happened and who is responsible. Medical records are also crucial as they provide proof of the injury and keep track of all costs related to the injury.
Assessing Your Case
A key part of the case evaluation process is determining the strength of your case. The lawyer will delve into the details of your case, collect evidence, and get a clear understanding of the incident.
The lawyer will consider factors such as:
- Witness accounts
- Available evidence
- The party at fault
- Potential damages
They will also consider their expertise in handling similar cases, reputation, and track record. All these factors will help the lawyer provide you with the best advice and build a strong compensation case.
Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer at Munley Law
Dealing with a construction accident can be overwhelming. A local Scranton construction accident lawyer at Munley Law can guide you through the process, using their knowledge of local laws, providing personalized representation, and leveraging their proven track record. They can help you overcome challenges such as proving negligence and dealing with insurance companies, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
Should you suffer an injury from a construction accident in Scranton, Munley Law is readily available for a free consultation. You can contact them by calling, sending a chat, or emailing us. We also offer virtual consultations for those who prefer or need to discuss their personal injury case remotely.
