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New Jersey construction worker killed in building collapse

A construction accident in New Jersey led to the death of one worker and injuries to another. The tragic accident provides an opportunity for workers to review their options if injured in similar accidents.

A recent article in The Wall Street Journal covered a building collapse construction accident in New Jersey. Pedestrians and traffic passing by the building may not have noticed the collapse occurred as there was no external damage. Inside the building, a stair collapse trapped two workers in the basement of the building. A local fire department responded and rescued the trapped workers from the debris. One worker was rushed to University Hospital in Newark and treated for non life-threatening injuries. The other worker died as a result of the injuries sustained in the accident.

The story provides an opportunity for construction workers to review the remedies available in the event of an accident. Whether injured in a building collapse, fall or other construction accident, the injured worker or worker’s family should qualify for benefits to help cover the cost of medical care and associated expenses.

Remedies available for victims of New Jersey construction accidents

Depending on the details of the incident, there are two general paths for relief: workers’ compensation or third-party suits.

New Jersey state law generally requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage. NJ’s Workers’ Compensation Law is administered by The Division of Workers’ Compensation, a group that helps to ensure that employees who are injured in on the job accidents are able to receive benefits. These benefits include the following:

  • Medical benefits: all necessary and reasonable medical treatment, prescriptions and hospitalization services related to a work injury.
  • Out-of-work benefits: These benefits are available while an injured or ill worker is recovering from his or her injury.
  • Disability award benefits: After your medical treatment has concluded you are eligible to receive a monetary award.
  • Death Benefits: Dependents of a worker who dies because of a work-related injury or illness are eligible to receive death benefits.

If, however, someone other than a coworker or employer contributed to the accident, perhaps a subcontractor or defective tool manufacturer, a third-party suit may be an option. If you are the victim of a construction accident in New Jersey, contact an experienced construction site accident attorney to review your case and help guide you through the process to better ensure your legal rights are protected.

Keywords: construction accident, workers’ compensation, death benefits