Call Today for a Free Consultation 317-843-2606
What is the No Zone?

What is the No Zone?

A No-Zone refers to a region around a sizable commercial vehicle, like a semi-truck, where the driver’s visibility may be restricted or blocked. These areas can pose risks for other motorists because the truck driver might not see them, potentially leading to accidents.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) introduced the term No-Zone to characterize the zones around a semi-truck where accidents are more likely to happen. These regions are called No-Zones because they are spaces that other drivers should avoid to ensure safety.

It’s important to recognize that the dimensions and position of a No-Zone can differ based on the size and kind of commercial vehicle. For instance, buses and delivery trucks may have distinct No-Zones compared to semi-trucks. Motorists should always stay vigilant about the No-Zones surrounding the vehicles they share the road with and take measures to avoid them.

By comprehending what a No-Zone is and their locations, drivers can take action to remain safe on the road and prevent accidents involving large commercial vehicles. By keeping clear of the No-Zones and allowing trucks ample room, drivers can lower the chances of accidents and encourage safer driving habits.

Where Is a Semi-truck’s No-Zone?

To ensure safety when driving near semi-trucks, it’s crucial to be familiar with the No-Zone’s location. The No-Zone denotes the regions around the truck where the driver’s visibility may be restricted or hindered. There are four primary No-Zones surrounding a semi-truck:

Front No-Zone: The space immediately in front of the truck, where the driver’s sight is blocked by the truck’s hood and the driver’s seat angle.

Rear No-Zone: The area at the back of the truck, where the driver’s sight is obstructed by the truck’s dimensions and the cargo’s height.

Side No-Zones: The regions on both sides of the truck, where the driver’s sight is limited by the truck’s length and the driver’s seat height.

Wide Turns: The zone where the truck requires additional room to execute a turn, potentially causing the truck to encroach on other lanes or the sidewalk.

Being aware of the No-Zones’ locations can aid drivers in evading them and maintaining safety on the road. By maintaining a safe distance from the truck and staying alert to the truck’s movements, drivers can minimize the likelihood of involvement in an accident.

What is the danger associated with driving in a truck’s “No-Zone” area?

Navigating near sizable commercial vehicles such as semi-trucks can be risky, particularly if motorists are unaware of the potential hazards these vehicles present. One of the most notable dangers is the existence of a “No-Zone” region surrounding the truck. The No-Zone is a zone where the truck operator’s visibility may be limited or blocked, making it difficult for them to spot other vehicles on the roadway.

If a motorist enters a No-Zone, they increase the likelihood of being in an accident with the truck. For instance, if a motorist is in the truck’s blind spot, the truck operator might not notice them while switching lanes, resulting in a crash. Likewise, if a motorist tails a truck too closely, they might not have sufficient time to respond if the truck comes to an abrupt halt, causing a rear-end collision.

Beware of Trucks and Wide Turns

One of the riskiest situations for motorists near a semi-truck arises when the truck executes a wide turn. Wide turns demand more room than a standard turn and may cause the truck to encroach on other lanes or the sidewalk. Consequently, drivers who are not attentive to the truck’s movement might unintentionally enter the truck’s No-Zone, leading to an accident.

To ensure safety when sharing the roadway with semi-trucks, drivers should remain alert to the truck’s movements and refrain from entering the wide turn No-Zone. Drivers should also exercise patience and allow the truck ample room to finish the turn securely. It is equally important to avoid overtaking a truck engaged in a wide turn, as this can be highly dangerous.

In addition to being mindful of wide turns, drivers should exercise caution when switching lanes close to a semi-truck. Drivers must never assume that the truck operator can see them and should always confirm their visibility to the truck driver before making a lane change. Drivers should also steer clear of the front, rear, and side No-Zones and maintain a safe distance from the truck while driving.

The Rear No-Zone when Driving Behind Trucks

The area behind a semi-truck, known as the rear No-Zone, is among the most hazardous zones surrounding such vehicles, posing particular risks for motorists following the truck. The rear No-Zone spans about 30 feet behind the truck, and its danger stems from the truck driver’s obstructed view caused by the vehicle’s size and the cargo’s height.

To ensure safety when driving behind a semi-truck, motorists should keep an appropriate following distance and refrain from tailgating. It is advised that drivers maintain a gap of at least one car length per 10 miles per hour of their speed. For instance, a motorist going at 60 miles per hour should ideally stay a minimum of six car lengths away from the truck.

Motorists should also pay attention to the truck’s brake lights and turn signals, being ready to decelerate or come to a full stop if the truck is reducing its speed or preparing to turn. Moreover, it’s crucial to avoid overtaking the truck from the right side, as this area has the poorest visibility for the truck driver.

By remaining vigilant and mindful of the truck’s actions, motorists can minimize the likelihood of accidents while driving behind a semi-truck. By keeping a secure distance and steering clear of the rear No-Zone, drivers can promote safety on the road and contribute to accident prevention.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding and respecting the No-Zone areas around large commercial vehicles such as semi-trucks is essential for ensuring road safety. By being aware of the dangers associated with driving near a semi-truck, including the front, rear, side No-Zones, and wide turns, motorists can minimize the risk of accidents. If you have been involved in a car accident, contact Goodin Abernathy’s car accident attorneys for a free consultation!

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in Indiana?

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in Indiana?

In Indiana, drivers must report a car accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the police or local sheriff’s department immediately, and file an accident report with the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of the incident.

Now, let’s go more in-depth.

Car accidents can be unexpected and traumatic experiences that can leave accident victims in a state of shock. In the aftermath of a car accident, there are many things to consider, including seeking medical treatment, dealing with insurance companies, and repairing any property damage.

One critical thing that often goes overlooked, however, is reporting the accident to the proper authorities. In Indiana, failing to report an accident within the appropriate timeframe can have serious legal and financial consequences.

This blog post will provide an overview of Indiana’s car accident reporting requirements and answer the question of how long you have to report an accident in Indiana. We’ll also discuss the legal and financial repercussions of failing to report an accident and provide some recommendations for how to protect your interests in the event of a car accident.

What is Indiana’s Reporting Law?

Indiana’s car accident reporting law requires anyone involved in an accident to report the incident to the police or local sheriff’s department if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. The driver must also provide their name, address, and driver’s license information to the other parties involved in the accident. If the driver is unable to provide this information, they must report the accident as soon as possible.

It’s important to note that Indiana’s car accident reporting requirements apply even in minor accidents. Even if there is only minor damage to the vehicles involved, drivers are still required to report the accident to the police and file an accident report with the BMV.

If you are involved in an accident and are unsure about the reporting requirements, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and report the accident to the proper authorities as soon as possible. Doing so can protect you from potential legal and financial consequences down the line.

How Long Do You Have to Report an Accident in Indiana?

If you are involved in a car accident in Indiana, it’s important to report the incident to the appropriate authorities as soon as possible. Indiana law requires drivers to report accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the police or local sheriff’s department immediately. Drivers must also file an accident report with the Indiana BMV within 10 days of the incident.

If the accident resulted in injury or death, the driver must report the accident to the Indiana State Police within 24 hours. Failure to report an accident in a timely manner can result in penalties, fines, and even criminal charges.

It’s important to note that Indiana’s car accident reporting requirements may vary depending on the circumstances of the accident. For example, if the accident involves an unattended vehicle or a property owner, the driver must make a reasonable effort to locate the owner and report the accident within a reasonable timeframe.

Additionally, there are exceptions to Indiana’s reporting requirements in cases where the driver is physically unable to report the accident due to injury or medical emergency. In such cases, the driver must report the accident as soon as possible once they are able to do so.

It’s important to understand that there is a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Indiana. Under Indiana law, accident victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Failing to report an accident in a timely manner can complicate the claims process and potentially limit the victim’s ability to recover maximum compensation for their injuries.

What Happens if You Fail to Report an Accident in Indiana?

Failing to report a car accident in Indiana can have serious legal and financial consequences. If you fail to report an accident to the proper authorities within the required timeframe, you may face penalties, fines, or even criminal charges.

In addition to the legal consequences, failing to report an accident can also have implications for insurance claims and potential lawsuits. Insurance companies require prompt reporting of accidents to ensure that claims are processed correctly and in a timely manner. Failure to report an accident can lead to delays or even denials of insurance claims, leaving accident victims responsible for paying for their own medical bills and property damage.

Failing to report an accident can also make it difficult to prove fault in a personal injury lawsuit. Under Indiana’s modified comparative negligence law, accident victims can only recover damages if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. Failure to report an accident or delay in reporting can make it harder to prove fault, potentially reducing the accident victim’s chances of recovering maximum compensation for their injuries.

It’s important to note that if you are involved in an accident and admit fault, this can also have significant legal and financial consequences. Admitting fault can make it harder to defend against claims of negligence or liability, potentially exposing you to greater financial liability in the event of a lawsuit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, reporting a car accident in Indiana is a legal requirement that should be taken seriously. Indiana’s reporting requirements apply to all accidents involving motor vehicles and failure to comply can have serious legal and financial consequences.

If you are involved in a car accident in Indiana, it’s important to report the accident to the appropriate authorities as soon as possible. This includes reporting the accident to the police or local sheriff’s department and filing an accident report with the Indiana BMV within 10 days. If the accident resulted in injury or death, the driver must also report the accident to the Indiana State Police within 24 hours.

Failing to report an accident can result in penalties, fines, and even criminal charges. It can also complicate the insurance claims process and limit your ability to recover maximum compensation for your injuries. It’s important to understand Indiana’s reporting requirements and to comply with them to protect your legal and financial interests.

Contact a Goodin Abernathy Car Accident Lawyer today

Call the car accident and injury attorneys at Goodin Abernathy for more advice.  We enjoy connecting with people and we’ll tell you if you need an attorney or if you should work it out yourself.  The Goodin Abernathy attorneys do not charge for initial consultations.  We will explain what happens with auto repairs and total damage claims.  Our attorneys will describe how insurance companies operate and how your medical bills are handled.  Make it easier on yourself and contact us.  At Goodin Abernathy, you’re not just a file number because we care about our clients.

Unemployment Insurance: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Applying

Unemployment Insurance: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Applying

Millions of Americans have depended on unemployment insurance to help them remain financially stable while in between jobs. This public assistance program began in 1935 as a way of helping people during the Great Depression and has been relied upon ever since. Filing for unemployment requires you to follow a specific process. Failing to do so and you risk not getting approved. The first step is to confirm state regulations, gather paperwork, and prove job loss. Understanding these ten things before applying will help to make the process feel more approachable. 

1. Are You Eligible? 

You must meet certain requirements to be able to file an unemployment benefits application. Otherwise, your application will get rejected. First, you must be a resident of Indiana. Then, you must meet the following requirements. 

  • Unemployed, and
  • Worked in Indiana during the last 12 months, and
  • Earned wages per Indiana guidelines, and
  • Actively seeking work

2. Gather Paperwork 

Before you start your application, gather all of the necessary information. This will make the application process easier and faster. It will also ensure you do not make a mistake or forget important information. Gather the following pieces of information for your unemployment application. 

  • Email account
  • Driver’s license or valid ID
  • Address
  • Social Security number
  • Date of birth
  • Phone number
  • Last employer’s name, mailing address, phone number, 
  • Dates of employment
  • The reason you are unemployed to prove job loss
  • Bank routing number and account number

3. File Weekly Vouchers 

After you submit your initial benefits application, you must file weekly vouchers. You will file a voucher each week that you wish to receive benefits. This is because benefits are paid weekly. Do not wait to start filing your weekly vouchers. Continue with weekly filings even if your application is delayed or going through an appeals process. Should your application get approved or corrected, all previous payments will get released. However, if you failed to file your weekly vouchers, then there are no payments to release. 

When filing your weekly vouchers, report any income you receive for that week. Failing to do so is fraud. 

4. Keep Detailed Job Search Records 

Each week, you will need to fill out a Work Search Activity form on the IndianaCareerConnect.com website. If you keep a detailed written record of your job search activities, then this should be a relatively quick and straightforward process. You will need confirmation emails for jobs applied to, company contact information, and any proof of your job search activity. The DWD offers a log template to aid in your record keeping. Do not throw away your records after filling out your weekly search activity form. The DWD can request to verify your job search activity at any time while receiving benefits. If your records are determined to be lacking or inaccurate, your benefits claim could be denied, and you would cease to receive unemployment benefits. 

5. Can You Waive the Work Search Requirement?

As a general rule, everyone receiving unemployment benefits must be actively looking for employment. However, there are certain circumstances where this requirement can get waived. For example, you could be enrolled in a training program that is approved by DWD. Or you could be a member in good standing of a DWD-approved union hiring hall. Finally, you have a specific recall date for the company position that let you go that is within 60 days of your filing date. Do not assume you are eligible and do not need to search for work. Speak with a representative to confirm your eligibility so that you do not unknowingly fail to fulfill the requirements to continue receiving payments. 

6. There Is a Time Limit

Unemployment payments do not last forever. The standard maximum length is 26 weeks. During the pandemic, there were federal programs in place that made it possible to apply for additional weeks. However, these federal benefits ended in 2021. 

7. Look for the Monetary Determination of Eligibility Form

After submitting your unemployment benefits application, you should receive a Monetary Determination of Eligibility form within ten days. This form does not mean you qualify for benefits or have the approval to receive benefits. Instead, it simply lists what your weekly benefit would be and the total maximum benefit you are eligible for. Your eligibility determination will happen within 21 days. However, this determination can take longer if there are issues with your filing. 

8. Be Honest and Forthcoming  

The state of Indiana takes unemployment benefits fraud seriously and actively pursues those suspected of this activity. You could face prison time, probation, repayment of money received, and restitution if caught. Thankfully, fraud is simple to avoid. Be honest and forthcoming with information about your unemployment, earning history, and job search efforts. 

Do not intentionally withhold information. Do not provide misleading or inaccurate information. Double-check the information before submitting documents. If you do discover an error or mistake, correct the issue as soon as possible. 

9. Be Responsible 

You must take ownership of your unemployment filing. Read all of the materials provided and watch the tutorial videos to confirm state regulations. This will help you avoid making errors that could result in an under or overpayment. It will also help you understand your rights. This self-responsibility is what led some Indiana residents to stand up for their rights and take their grievances to court. This led to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) paying millions in back payments. If you feel you have a right to more unemployment than what you are receiving, it could help to speak with an unemployment lawyer. They can help you understand the regulations applicable and your potential right of recovery.  

10. Hire a Goodin Abernathy LLP Lawyer

Losing a job is stressful as you look for new employment while staying financially stable. Applying for unemployment benefits can help ease the financial pressure while looking for new employment. In addition, unemployment benefits can make it easier to pursue compensation if you feel you have been wrongfully terminated. The team at Goodin Abernathy fights hard to help clients pursue their employment claims. Thanks to their years of experience, clients get the answers and guidance they need to file an unemployment claim. 

Schedule a consultation with the employment lawyers at Goodin Abernathy to discuss your recent loss of employment and potential wrongful termination claim. 

Is Indiana an At-Will State?

Is Indiana an At-Will State?

Yes, Indiana is an at-will employment state, which means that employers in the state have the right to terminate an employee’s job for any reason or no reason at all, as long as it is not an illegal reason.

Now, let’s look into it more in-depth.

At-will employment is a concept that affects both employers and employees in the United States. In at-will employment, either the employer or the employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, without legal recourse. However, there are some exceptions to at-will employment that can provide legal protection for employees. In this blog post, we will explore whether Indiana is an at-will state and what implications this has for employees and employers in the state. It is important for both parties to understand Indiana’s employment laws to navigate the employment relationship in a fair and lawful way.

What is At-Will Employment?

At-will employment is a term used to describe a working relationship where the employer or employee can end the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice. In an at-will employment arrangement, employers can terminate an employee’s job for any reason, including poor performance, personality conflicts, or even without giving any reason at all. Similarly, employees can resign from their job at any time without providing a reason.

Exceptions to At-Will Employment in Indiana

While Indiana is an at-will employment state, there are some exceptions to the at-will doctrine that can provide legal protection for employees. These exceptions can limit an employer’s ability to terminate an employee’s job and provide legal recourse for employees who are wrongfully terminated.

Discrimination

One of the most significant exceptions to the at-will employment doctrine is the prohibition against discrimination. Under federal and state laws, employers are prohibited from firing employees based on their race, color, age (over 40), national origin, disability, religion, pregnancy, or genetic information. If an employee can demonstrate that they were fired for one of these reasons, it is considered wrongful termination.

In order to prove wrongful termination based on discrimination, the employee must first show that they were a member of a protected class and that the termination was motivated by their membership in that class. The employer may then argue that the termination was based on legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons, such as poor performance. In this case, the burden shifts back to the employee to prove that the employer’s stated reason is pre-textual (not true), and that the real reason for the termination was discrimination. If the employer cannot provide evidence of a legitimate, non-discriminatory basis for the termination, it may be easier for the employee to prove that discrimination was the true motivation for the firing.

Under both state and federal laws, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate against an employee based on their membership in a protected class. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated due to discrimination, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options under Indiana and federal law.

Employment Contract

Another exception to at-will employment in Indiana is the existence of an employment contract between the employer and the employee. If an employee has an employment contract that specifies the conditions under which their employment can be terminated, then the employer is bound by those conditions. This means that an employer cannot terminate the employee’s job outside of the specified conditions without breaching the employment contract.

Collective Bargaining Agreements

Another exception to at-will employment in Indiana is the existence of collective bargaining agreements. These agreements are negotiated between the employer and the employee’s union, and they specify the conditions under which the employee’s job can be terminated. Employers in unionized workplaces must adhere to these agreements and cannot terminate an employee’s job outside of the specified conditions without violating the collective bargaining agreement.

Understanding these exceptions to at-will employment can help employees and employers navigate the employment relationship in a fair and legal manner. Employers should be careful to ensure that they are not violating any laws when terminating an employee’s job, and employees should be aware of their legal rights and seek legal counsel if they believe they have been wrongfully terminated.

Implications of At-Will Employment in Indiana

At-will employment can have significant implications for both employees and employers in Indiana. While at-will employment provides employers with flexibility and reduces the costs associated with terminating employees, it also places employees at risk of being terminated without cause. Employees who are wrongfully terminated may face financial difficulties, loss of benefits, and difficulty finding new employment.

Employers in Indiana should be careful to ensure that they are not violating any laws when terminating an employee’s job. Terminating an employee for discriminatory reasons, for filing a workers’ compensation claim, or for serving on jury duty can result in legal action and financial penalties for the employer. Employers should also be aware that employees may have legal recourse if they are terminated outside of the conditions specified in their employment contract or collective bargaining agreement.

Employees in Indiana should be aware of their legal rights and seek legal counsel if they believe they have been wrongfully terminated. Indiana law provides some protections for employees, such as protection against discriminatory terminations and protection for whistleblowers who report illegal activity in the workplace. Additionally, employees may be able to negotiate an employment contract or collective bargaining agreement that provides additional job security.

Understanding the nuances of at-will employment in Indiana can help both employers and employees navigate the employment relationship in a fair and legal manner. Employers should be aware of their legal obligations when terminating an employee’s job, and employees should be aware of their legal rights and seek legal counsel if they believe they have been wrongfully terminated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Indiana is an at-will employment state, which means that employers in the state have the right to terminate an employee’s job for any reason or no reason at all, as long as it is not an illegal reason. However, there are some exceptions to at-will employment in Indiana, such as the existence of an employment contract, collective bargaining agreements, and legal protections against discriminatory terminations.

It is important for both parties to communicate openly and honestly to avoid any misunderstandings or legal disputes. Employers should provide clear expectations and performance feedback to employees, while employees should be aware of their job responsibilities and seek clarification when necessary. By working together, employers and employees can create a positive and productive work environment that benefits everyone.

Contact a Goodin Abernathy Employment Lawyer

At Goodin Abernathy, our experienced employment law attorneys can provide guidance and legal support to help you navigate the complex employment laws in Indiana. Whether you are an employer seeking to ensure compliance with legal requirements, or an employee who has been wrongfully terminated, our attorneys can help protect your rights and interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.

The 9 Most Common Injuries from Construction Accidents

The 9 Most Common Injuries from Construction Accidents

Falls account for one in three construction site accident deaths. However, not all accidents are so extreme that they result in death. For many people, their injuries include bruises, cuts, broken bones, and concussions. However, it doesn’t matter if the injury is minor or severe. If it impacts your ability to work, it affects your life and family. The lawyers at Goodin Abernathy understand that a construction injury can be a life-altering accident. They fight hard to secure their clients just compensation for their injuries. 

Broken Bones 

The most cited OSHA safety regulation violation is the lack of fall protection on construction sites. Completed buildings have several safety features in place to protect people from falling. Buildings that are in the construction process do not have these features installed yet. This and the very nature of working up high puts construction workers at a greater risk of falling. For example, from ladders, rooftops, scaffolding, or large machinery. When you fall from a tall height, your body is at risk of breaking bones and bruising upon impact. 

Other common causes of broken bones are struck-by accidents or crush accidents. This is when the construction worker gets struck by or crushed by a vehicle, machinery, or equipment. Broken bones can take months to heal, then require many more months of rehab. In some situations, the victim may never fully regain the functionality of their broken limb. 

Electrocution 

Because construction sites are buildings in progress, they have an increased risk of electrocution. Exposed wiring and generators present a risk by exposing construction workers to electricity. Then there is the use of power tools and electrical equipment as an everyday part of the job. If these tools are not properly maintained, they can have an electrical short that injures the user. Finally, excavation and site trenching activities can result in a construction worker unknowingly hitting buried electrical wires. When someone experiences electrocution, they can experience nerve damage, respiratory problems, seizures, and brain damage. These injuries could be short-term or long-lasting, depending on the severity of the electrocution. 

Knee and Ankle Injury 

Construction sites are not easy places to walk. Building materials, equipment, and tools are strewn about. Then there is the uneven ground, holes, and trenches. Navigating this minefield of potential danger can sometimes result in a slip or trip and fall. When this happens, knee and ankle injuries also occur. Minor injuries may require the injured worker to stay off their foot for weeks or months. More serious injuries could require surgery. 

Back Injury 

Sometimes back injuries happen from falls, being struck by, or being caught in-between accidents. But they can also occur from over-exertion. Simply being required to carry or move equipment that is too heavy for you can cause a back injury. These injuries can debilitate a person, rendering them unable to sit or stand for extended periods of time. Recovery can require rest and physical therapy to heal and strengthen the back muscles. 

Head and Brain Injury 

There is a reason construction workers wear hard hats. Even a minor bump to the head can cause a head or brain injury. Head injuries are tricky; minor injuries rarely cause long-term problems. However, severe injuries can create extensive complications that are long-lasting. If a construction worker suffers a head injury, they should get checked by a doctor. The most common type of injury is a concussion. Recovery requires rest, which can keep you from work. In contrast, severe head injuries can impact speech, coordination, seizures, and cognitive thought. Effects can directly impact the victim’s ability to function and prevent them from going back to work. 

Spinal Cord Injury 

A spinal cord injury occurs when a sudden and traumatic blow to your spine causes your spinal bones to crush, compress, or dislocate. This movement of the bones damages the spinal cord located within them. Because your spinal cord is a tight bundle of nerves that acts as a central command center for your body, these injuries can have far-reaching effects. You could experience minor numbness or total paralysis. Injury to your spinal cord is permanent. This type of injury is life-altering and affects every part of a construction worker’s life. 

Illness

Asbestos and lead were once commonly found in construction. These materials are harmful to the human body. Construction workers who work on an older building could be exposed to these hazards. However, they aren’t the only dangers that can cause illness. Construction workers exposed to toxins, chemicals, solvents, and pesticides are at risk of suffering illness. This type of injury is more challenging to prove liability for. Unlike physical injuries, illness does not always happen right away. Sometimes, it can take years for the illness to become known. If you worked in construction and suspect that your illness is a result, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney.

Loss of Limb 

In some caught in-between accidents, a construction worker may lose a limb. This happens when the victim gets caught where they shouldn’t be. The limb gets caught, causing it to get crushed. Another common occurrence is the loss of a finger or toe. Fingers can easily get caught in the way of a sharp blade. Toes can become injured when heavy equipment or building supplies get dropped on the foot. Depending on the limb lost, this injury can prevent the construction worker from continuing to work in the construction industry. 

Internal Organ Damage 

Being caught between, crushing, and fall accidents can have a devastating impact on the human body. While external damages are readily assessed, internal organ damage can lead to potentially life-threatening complications. Surgery may be required to repair the injury and stop bleeding. It can then take months or over a year for the individual to heal. During this time, they may not be able to work. 

Hire a Goodin Abernathy LLP Lawyer

The Goodin Abernathy LLP attorneys handle worker’s compensation and negligence claims for clients injured on construction sites.  These two legal claims involve difficult issues in which the Goodin Abernathy attorneys are experienced taking to court and fighting for our clients’ recoveries.  A “work comp” case involves making a claim against the worker’s employer for statutory benefit.  These include medical treatment, lost wages and physical impairment.  

A “negligence” claim is the second legal area that many attorneys are not as experienced in handling.  In certain situations, an injured worker can make legal claims against general contractors, project supervisors, project owners or other services typically involved in a construction project.  Especially in death, amputation or serious injuries, we need to make sure our clients exhaust their legal remedies and collect the damages they are entitled to under the law. That’s why we help our clients recover more money for damages through negligence cases compared to only going after a work comp claim.  In serious injuries, amputations or death claims, call the Goodin Abernathy LLP attorneys right away.  We care about our clients, their families and supporting them with first-rate representation. 

Do not wait to seek treatment if you’ve experienced an injury while working on a construction site. Once you have a diagnosis and treatment plan, consider speaking with a lawyer. The team at Goodin Abernathy has experience representing injured construction workers. They fight for the compensation they deserve to ensure they have financial security. 

Schedule a consultation to discuss your construction site injury with one of our attorneys.