Work zones remain dangerous for construction workers

March 21, 2013

Work zones remain dangerous for construction workers

There are many active road construction projects currently underway in and around Denver, and this number will only increase as the weather improves. For many motorists, this only adds to the stress of their daily commutes. However, for construction workers, the increase in projects means that their skills will be in high demand.

Unfortunately, many of these workers are injured in construction accidents at these job sites. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 20,000 road construction workers are injured each year in work zone accidents, and the agency reminds employers of the steps they need to improve workplace safety. Workers also receive guidance about some of the steps they can take to help avoid accidents as well.

Road construction sites are filled with several types of workers, all engaging in different day-to-day activities. Some may be responsible for operating the equipment needed to complete these complex tasks, while others may be responsible for controlling traffic to ensure safe travel through a work zone.

Not only do construction workers need to be aware of all of the activity going on at a jobsite, but they also must pay attention to motorists traveling through the work zone. Traffic violations in work zones can have increased penalties, but this may not be enough to encourage a motorist to practice safe driving habits.

Distracted drivers may be the biggest potential accident risk for construction workers in work zones. Motorists may be texting, talking on the phone or engaging in other activities that force them to take their eyes off of the road. This may prevent the drivers from being able to make the moves necessary to avoid an accident.

Road construction workers injured on-the-job may be eligible to recover workers' compensation benefits if their injuries force them to be away from work. The benefits that will be available to the worker will depend upon the type of the injuries that resulted from the accident.

Workers may be entitled to benefits to help pay any medical expenses that arise, as well as compensation for missed time from work. If the worker suffers any temporary or permanent disabilities as a result of the accident, it is possible that this will result in additional benefits being awarded.

The workers' compensation process can be extremely frustrating and time-consuming, especially to those who have never been through the process before. In some situations, workers may find that their claims have been denied, which can only add to the delay in receiving the much-needed benefits.

If you have been injured while working, contact an experienced workers' compensation attorney to help you recover your benefits. Workers need to report any on-the-job injuries as soon as they occur, which starts the process. Failing to follow these rules could have a negative impact upon your ability to recover workers' compensation benefits while you receive treatment from your injuries.

Article provided by The Law Firm of Janice M. Greening, LLC
Visit us at www.greening-law.com