New Orleans Construction Accident Lawyer

Fighting Tirelessly for Your Fair Recovery

Construction workers face many risks every day. Due to the dangerous nature of this work, the construction industry consistently remains one of the most hazardous jobs for workers, according to annual data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). However, just because a job is dangerous does not mean that workers should have to fear for their safety—or even their lives. 

In Louisiana, employers have a legal responsibility to their employees. They must maintain reasonably safe work environments, provide the tools needed to do the job, and conduct regular maintenance to ensure workers don't face excessive risks. When they fail to do these things, construction workers can be involved in serious, even fatal accidents. In many cases, employers are to blame. 

If you or someone you love was involved in a construction accident in New Orleans, you could be entitled to financial compensation, and Clayton, Frugé & Ward can help. Our worker injury attorneys have extensive experience and a proven track record, obtaining some of the biggest results in Louisiana history. We know what you're up against, and we are prepared to fight for you.

Call (225) 209-9943 or contact us online for a free consultation with one of our New Orleans construction accident attorneys.

Types of Construction Accidents & Their Causes

Construction sites are bustling hubs of activity, yet they pose significant risks to workers and people passing by. Accidents are common, and they have many different causes.

Some of the most common types of construction accidents include: 

•  Falls, either from heights or slip, trip, and fall accidents
• Being struck or crushed by falling or moving objects 
• Being caught between machinery or moving parts
• Machine entanglement 
• Crane accidents, forklift accidents, and other vehicle accidents
• Scaffolding accidents, including collapses and falls
• Welding accidents 

These and other construction accidents frequently lead to catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), amputation and crushed limbs, multiple bone fractures, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, electrocution, and more. 

These incidents have many causes but most can be attributed, at least partially, to negligence. 

Common causes of construction accidents in New Orleans include: 

• Improper or Inadequate Training: Sometimes, workers aren't given the training needed to safely operate equipment or follow safety protocols.
• Lack of Proper Safety Gear: Employers don’t always supply or enforce the use of hard hats, harnesses, goggles, or other personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Unsafe Scaffolding or Ladders: Poorly built or maintained scaffolding and ladders can collapse or lead to serious falls.
• Falling Objects: When tools, equipment, or other materials or debris are left unsecured, it can lead to serious injuries from falling items.
• Negligent Supervision or Worker Oversight: Site managers may fail to monitor working conditions, identify hazards, or enforce safety rules, leading to accidents. 
• Improper Machine Use or Maintenance: In some cases, machines are used without proper precautions or allowed to remain in unsafe working condition.
• Electrical Hazards: Exposed wiring, poor grounding, or lack of lockout/tagout procedures can lead to shocks, electrocutions, explosions, or fires. 
• Slip and Fall Hazards: Spilled liquids, uneven surfaces, or unsecured cords are sometimes ignored, increasing the risk of falls.
• Inadequate Fall Protection: When workers on roofs, scaffolding, or high structures aren’t given guardrails, nets, or harnesses, they are at risk of falling. 
• OSHA Violations: When employers cut corners or ignore OSHA safety requirements, they put their workers and others at risk. 

Filing a Construction Accident Claim in New Orleans

Louisiana has specific laws that affect construction accident claims. Employers must comply with state regulations, including providing necessary safety equipment and adhering to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. However, despite these regulations, accidents still occur often due to negligence and other factors.

The state's workers' compensation laws also play a pivotal role in construction injury claims. For those who qualify, workers' compensation provides benefits to injured workers regardless of fault. Unfortunately, securing these benefits is not always straightforward. Many times, the process is complex and involves navigating numerous bureaucratic challenges. 

Because of the many laws at play, filing a construction accident claim in New Orleans can be challenging. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we can help you determine if you qualify for workers' compensation, if you have a third-party work injury claim against a negligent manufacturer or another party, or if you may be entitled to pursue compensation through multiple avenues. Our construction accident lawyers in New Orleans are here to guide you through the process and protect your rights. We always seek maximum compensation for our clients, even if that means taking their cases to court. 

What Damages Can You Recover After a Construction Accident? 

The unique factors involved in your case—including the nature and severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical care, and how the accident happened—affect the specific types of damages you can claim, as well as the overall value of your claim. For example, if you are filing for workers' compensation, you could be entitled to medical benefits and temporary wage replacement benefits. If you are pursuing a third-party personal injury claim, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and non-economic damages, like pain and suffering. If your loved one passed away due to a construction accident, you can seek wrongful death benefits to help with medical costs, funeral expenses, and loss of the love, companionship, and support your loved one provided.

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, our team can review your case and determine what types of damages you may be entitled to after a construction accident in New Orleans. We encourage you to reach out to our firm right away, as you only have a limited amount of time—one to two years—to file your lawsuit.

Why Choose Clayton, Frugé & Ward for Your Construction Accident Case?

Choosing a construction accident attorney in New Orleans with a proven track record can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, our notable history of ground-breaking verdicts, including a landmark $117 million result, demonstrates our ability to handle even the toughest cases. In fact, we often accept cases other law firms can't or won't.  

Clients throughout Louisiana trust us because we:

• Provide Dedicated Legal Representation: We treat every client and every case with the utmost care, leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice and maximum recovery. Our team is dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable.
• Employ a Diverse Team of Attorneys: Our team reflects the diversity of our state. Our attorneys come from different backgrounds, which allows us to truly empathize with our clients and look at their cases from every angle. 
• Have Recovered More Than $1 Billion for the Injured: When it comes to pursuing complex personal injury claims, results matter. Our firm has recovered countless settlements and verdicts for the people of Louisiana. 
• Genuinely Care About Our Clients: Most of all, our attorneys and staff care about the people we serve. At our firm, you're not just a number; you're a real person with real concerns, and we're here to help you secure the recovery you need.

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we prioritize honest, open communication with our clients. We seek to build trust through transparency, offering our clients a clear understanding of what they can expect from the legal process. We discuss possible outcomes and potential pitfalls, as well as how our team can fight for the maximum compensation you are owed. 

When you hire our New Orleans construction accident lawyers, you get a free initial consultation and don't pay anything unless we recover a settlement or verdict in your case. 

New Orleans Construction Accident FAQ

What Compensation Can I Get After a Construction Accident?

After a construction accident in New Orleans, you may be entitled to various damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you file a workers' comp claim after a construction accident, you could receive wage replacement, vocational rehabilitation, and other benefits. 

The specific types and amount of compensation you can receive depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding your case. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we meticulously evaluate every aspect of your situation and pursue the full, fair amount you are owed. 

Who Is Liable in a Construction Accident?

Determining liability for a construction accident can be complex, as multiple parties are often involved. This can include contractors, equipment manufacturers, employers, or even other workers. To determine fault, we conduct thorough investigations, collaborate with industry experts, and leverage our in-depth knowledge of local and federal regulations. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in New Orleans?

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident if the accident occurred on or after July 1, 2024, or one year from the date of the accident if it occurred before this date. To avoid losing your right to recover damages, you should act fast. Our attorneys can assist you in meeting all legal deadlines.

What If My Employer Denies Liability?

If your employer denies liability for a construction accident, you still have options. We can help you navigate this situation by determining if your employer really is liable. We can also explore whether other people or parties could be to blame. In some cases, you may not need to prove fault at all; if you qualify for workers' compensation, you can receive benefits regardless of who was to blame. Our firm is adept at gathering evidence to support your case and is known for taking on challenging cases. 

Do I Need an Attorney for a Construction Accident Claim?

While you can file a claim yourself, working with a knowledgeable New Orleans construction accident attorney improves the chances of a positive outcome. With Clayton, Frugé & Ward, you'll benefit from a dedicated legal team with extensive experience in handling complex claims, as well as both legal and emotional support throughout the entire process. 

Navigating complex legal processes can be daunting, especially when you are already dealing with serious injuries and a long recovery. An experienced attorney from our firm can help you manage these hurdles, allowing you to focus on what matters most: healing. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we are ready to negotiate with insurance companies to help maximize your payout. If necessary, we will even take your case to trial. 

Move Forward With Confidence: Contact Our Attorneys in New Orleans Today

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we understand the life-changing impact of construction accidents, and we are here to offer the guidance and support you need. Our history of handling tough cases and achieving successful outcomes demonstrates our commitment to our clients and the New Orleans community. Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. 

Schedule your free consultation with us today by calling (225) 209-9943 and let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.