Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
In a third-party construction injury case, you might be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages, depending on the details of the accident. The former includes medical expenses, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity.
Meanwhile, the latter refers to pain and suffering, permanent disability, or the loss of enjoyment of life, depending on the circumstances of your accident. To better understand what you can recover, contact a New York City construction accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Damages You Can Recover After a Third-Party Construction Accident
The damages available in a third-party construction injury case are divided into two categories: economic and non-economic. Understanding the difference between these two categories is important because a third-party claim could put you in a position where you’re able to recover both types of damages.
What are Economic Damages?
Economic damages are reflective of the financial side of construction injuries, especially when your pre-existing ability to earn a living or afford your expenses is disrupted. These losses are usually calculated based on objective information.
However, that does not mean they are automatically recognized without legal representation. Your attorney can take a closer look at your situation and identify the full extent of the financial impacts caused by the accident, including both short-term and long-term effects.
Medical Expenses and Ongoing Treatment Costs
Post-accident medical expenses can be overwhelming, especially when the treatment you need surpasses initial care. Your attorney can pursue compensation that accounts for both current bills and future needs associated with your injuries.
Lost Wages and Loss of Future Earnings
Losing income after a construction injury can create both immediate and lasting financial stress. An attorney can calculate not only the wages you have already missed out on, but also how these circumstances might affect your ability to earn money in the future.
What are Non-Economic Damages?
Non-economic damages focus on the personal impact of a construction injury, including the ways your daily life, personal comfort, and overall well-being changed after the accident. These losses are not tied to direct receipts or financial records.
As a result, it can be more difficult to define them without any support, but lawyers can translate your experience into a clear and compelling claim by showing how the injury has affected your quality of life over time.
Pain and Suffering Damages in Third-Party Claims
Third-party construction injury cases make it possible for people in your position to receive compensation for the emotional implications of their injuries.
Permanent Disability and Long-Term Impairment
Permanent disability damages address the lasting effects of an injury that has limited your ability to either work or function the way you used to prior to getting hurt.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life and Additional Emotional Harm
Loss of enjoyment of life focuses on how your injury has affected your ability to take part in everyday activities and personal interests.
Are Wrongful Death Damages Recoverable?
If someone dies as a result of a construction accident, that person’s surviving family members are usually allowed to pursue compensation. This money is intended to help them if the deceased individual was financially supporting the family before passing away.
According to state New York Laws EPT § 5-4.1, wrongful death damages are available in third-party construction cases if negligence or unsafe job site conditions resulted in a worker’s death. If this is something you need more information about, don’t hesitate to contact an attorney ASAP.
How a Lawyer Can Maximize Your Compensation in a Third-Party Construction Injury Case
Maximizing compensation in a third-party construction injury case often comes down to how thoroughly the claim is built. It’s also important that all sources of recovery are identified. Here’s what an attorney can do on your behalf:
- Investigate the accident.
- Determine who is legally responsible beyond your employer.
- Develop a strategy that accounts for both economic and non-economic damages.
By gathering evidence, working with professionals, and presenting a clear picture of how the injury has altered your life, an attorney can make sure no part of your losses is overlooked. This approach makes all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Call Shulman & Hill Today to Understand What Damages You Can Recover in a Third-Party Construction Injury Case
If you were hurt in a construction zone, don’t wait any longer to contact the law firm of Shulman & Hill. Known as New York’s premier injury law firm, we represent injured construction workers across all five boroughs.
Founded in 2013, our lawyers have helped over 26,000 clients pursue more than $1 billion in compensation. Home to attorneys who have over 200 years of combined experience, we offer a deep understanding of both workers’ compensation and third-party Labor Law claims.
As a law firm built around the communities we serve, we reflect the diversity of New York itself, and our attorneys work from various offices throughout the city. For help from legal counsel that understands high-stakes construction cases, we’re here for you. New York, We Got You.
