Are you a construction worker? Have you been injured on the job? You are not alone. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that in 2013, there were 796 construction accident deaths nationwide and countless injury incidents.
Remember, if you are ever injured at work, it may be wise to speak to an attorney. Sadly, construction workers at times face grave injuries like spinal cord injuries, head injuries, broken bones and severe burns. Because of this, it is important for them to seek legal guidance when moving forward with an injury claim. Aside from a workers’ compensation claim, if gross negligence was involved in your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit or a third-party claim.
Tampa Jury Awards Construction Accident Victim $64.5 Million
We bring up construction accidents because recently a Hillsborough County jury awarded a man $64.5 million after he was injured in a building collapse in 2009.
According to the Tampa Bay Times, Robert Matthews was 25 when the building he was working in fell on him, crushing his legs, pelvis and internal organs. He was working at a Mosaic Co. construction site when the collapse occurred.
The newspaper reported that the jury found three companies responsible for the accident, including Mosiac, Semco Construction and Mark Rice Inc. Matthews was working for Mark Rice when the accident occurred. The incident took place when a train went by the construction site, causing the building to shift and slide down upon Matthews.
Initially, doctors feared the worst about Matthews’ injuries, thinking he would die. After he lived, he was reportedly told he would never walk again, although he has since begun to walk.
Discussing a Construction Accident with an Attorney
As this case shows, juries take construction accidents very seriously. If you ever sustained catastrophic injuries on the job, you may be entitled to significant sum of money, which you can use to help yourself recover. In the case above, the man who was injured is now pursuing a graduate degree in business administration. It appears as though he has moved on with his life.
Again, speaking to an attorney may be a wise decision following a construction accident. To see how we have helped injury victims, review our verdicts and settlements page.