Construction workers create better futures for their communities as they create new schools, roads, homes, office complexes, and so much more. Every day on a construction site, a worker uses complex machinery, sometimes high up on scaffolding and in grueling weather. Whether it’s a bulldozer, crane, or other operating machinery, construction workers must ensure these pieces of equipment get used carefully and that everyone follows the correct safety procedures.

Tragically, construction worksite accidents do happen. A worker might fall, be electrocuted, or get struck by equipment or materials. Sometimes these accidents result from carelessness or negligence; sometimes, they happen due to defective equipment and machinery. Regardless of what caused the accident, full compensation for those injured could be available.

If you have been involved in an accident with a large construction vehicle or equipment, follow these steps:

There is no such thing as too much information in a personal injury case involving construction equipment.

1. Get medical help immediately. Even if the injury seems minimal at the time, seek help from the onsite medical team and other experts. Follow the treatment plan recommendations provided by your medical team. Most importantly: seek medical attention independent of your employer. They will most likely have onsite care at the scene of the accident. Use it, then follow that up with a visit to an independent provider who will give you a 100% unbiased opinion of the situation.

2. Contact your insurance provider. Tell them details of the accident so that it will be on your profile.

3. Document as much as you possibly can, including:

   1. Time and location of the accident.

   2. CONTRACTORS INVOLVED IN THE PROJECT. In any construction site injury there may be multiple parties who have responsibility for maintaining a safe worksite. Obtain the names of the general contractor, subcontractors, architects, safety consultants, design engineers and the manufacturer and operator of any equipment or vehicle involved in your incident.

   3. Manager info. Your onsite supervisor’s name and the company name.

   4. Take photos of the construction site and any equipment you were using at the time of the accident. Most importantly, take photos of the large construction vehicle that caused your accident and injuries. These pictures can be examined by an expert who will determine if faulty equipment is responsible for the incident or if the construction company was not following proper safety procedures. Photographs are one of the most important pieces of evidence you can use in your case. If you are too injured to take the pictures yourself, give the task to a trusted coworker or third party.

   5. Type of large construction vehicle and exactly how the accident happened.

   6. Medical diagnosis and your treatment plan.

   7. Witnesses. If anyone else, whether coworkers or nearby pedestrians, saw the accident, take statements from them as well.

   8. Post-injury lifestyle. Write down how the injuries from the accident have negatively affected your daily life in order to provide this information to your attorney. Continue to record the changes every week.

4. Do NOT sign any papers. Your employer’s insurance company may even pressure you to sign away your rights as a victim. Do not sign any documents before your attorney reviews them.

5. Seek legal support right away. The construction company’s legal team will start working on the case ASAP, so do not delay finding an expert construction accident law firm.