Construction workers often face dangerous conditions, and accidents can have serious consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, a Des Moines construction accident lawyer with in-depth knowledge of personal injury law can help. If you’re experiencing lost earnings, mounting medical bills, or loss of bodily function, our personal injury law firm will fight for the compensation you deserve.
In this Article
Why Do I Need a Construction Accident Lawyer in Des Moines?
Insurance companies may try to offer low settlements. If you’ve been seriously injured on a Des Moines construction site, our legal team is here to help you recover damages by handling a workers’ comp claim and third-party claim. We can walk you through your construction accident claim, gather evidence (like medical records, OSHA records, and witness statements) to build your construction accident case, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf—taking your construction accident case to court if needed.
Types of Construction Accidents
Construction sites are fast-paced environments with many hazards. Accidents can include falls, injuries from falling objects, crush injuries, or workers trapped by machinery or vehicles. Other risks include collapsing structures, electrocution from live wires and overhead power lines, faulty equipment, poor maintenance, and exposure to toxic substances.
What Causes Construction Accidents in Des Moines?
Severe injuries often occur due to preventable issues that put workers at risk. Without proper safety equipment or training, workers face greater chances of accidents. Ignoring safety regulations worsens risks, as protocols are key to a safe worksite. Negligent companies or managers may fail to provide proper oversight, exposing workers to unnecessary dangers and catastrophic injuries. Faulty equipment and bad weather add to the challenges.
Types of Injuries That Can Result from a Des Moines Job Site Accident
Serious injuries sustained on construction sites can include:
- Fractured or broken bones
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
- Severe burns
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
Steps to Take After a Construction Site Accident
After a construction job site accident, Iowa workers should:
- Seek medical attention for your minor and most severe injuries.
- Report unsafe conditions and the accident to your employer within 90 days.
- Document the scene with photos.
- Keep medical records.
- Don’t give a recorded statement to insurers without speaking to a lawyer.
- Contact a Des Moines construction accident attorney promptly to preserve evidence and meet filing deadlines.
How Are Construction Workers Protected in Des Moines, IA?
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) laws and state laws protect construction workers:
OSHA Laws
These measures safeguard construction workers by mandating that employers provide comprehensive safety training, proper equipment, and a secure working environment.
Workers’ Compensation Laws
In Iowa, most employees injured at work can receive workers’ compensation benefits. The workers’ compensation system is “no-fault”—meaning employees qualify for benefits if the injury happened during work hours, no matter who was responsible.
A workers’ compensation claim can provide financial compensation for medical treatment, wage replacement, and additional support. In 2024, 1,032 construction workers died on the job nationwide; workers’ comp can provide death benefits to surviving family members.
Who Can Be Held Liable for My Construction Accident Injuries?
Workers’ compensation in Iowa covers medical expenses and lost wages for work-related injuries, regardless of fault. If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, additional damages—including pain and suffering—may be available by pursuing a personal injury case alongside a workers’ comp claim. Liable parties could include:
- Construction companies or site managers
- Equipment manufacturers of defective heavy equipment or machinery
- Contractors or subcontractors
- Property owners or other relevant third parties connected to the site
What Types of Compensation Might I Receive for Workplace Injuries?
In Iowa, injured workers are covered by workers’ comp with defined benefits such as medical expenses, lost income, loss of earning capacity, and vocational rehabilitation.
Workers’ comp does not cover pain and suffering damages. A lawyer can look at the combined fault of negligent parties to see if you’re owed other types of compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Des Moines, Iowa?
According to Iowa law (statute of limitations), individuals generally have two years to file a third-party claim; after that, they lose the right to sue. Workers’ compensation cases have separate filing deadlines.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation
Injured Iowans—our potential clients—who were hurt while engaged in construction work can contact our Des Moines law firm for help. We offer a free consultation to review your construction accident claim, protect your legal rights, and hold responsible parties accountable for their reckless behavior in third-party negligence claims. We work on a contingency basis so you don’t pay unless we win.
(312) 223-1700