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How to Navigate Workers Compensation for Scaffold Accidents in Connecticut

Posted by James Aspell | Mar 27, 2023 | 0 Comments

Construction work is a dangerous job, and scaffolds are an essential part of the job. They provide a platform for workers to access heights and complete work that is otherwise unreachable. Unfortunately, scaffold accidents happen all too often, resulting in serious injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has been injured in a scaffold accident, it's important to know your rights and options under the Connecticut workers compensation law.

Scaffolds are temporary structures used to support workers and materials while construction work is being done at heights. They are widely used in the construction industry, and their proper use and maintenance are critical to ensure worker safety. However, scaffold accidents are common, and they can result in serious injuries or even death. This article will help you understand the causes of scaffold accidents, the workers compensation law in Connecticut, and how to navigate it in the event of a scaffold accident.

 Common Causes of Scaffold Accidents

There are several reasons why scaffold accidents occur, and they can result in serious injuries. Some of the common causes of scaffold accidents are:

  • Lack of proper training and safety procedures: Workers who are not trained on how to use scaffolds properly are at risk of accidents. Employers should provide adequate training and enforce safety procedures to prevent accidents.
  • Poorly designed or installed scaffolds: Scaffolds that are not designed or installed properly can lead to accidents. They should be designed by a qualified professional and installed by trained workers.
  • Failure to maintain or inspect scaffolds: Scaffolds should be inspected regularly to ensure they are in good condition. Employers should also maintain them to prevent accidents.
  • Falling objects or debris: Falling objects or debris can cause serious injuries to workers on scaffolds. Employers should provide appropriate protective equipment and enforce safety procedures to prevent falling objects.

Types of Scaffold Accidents

Scaffold accidents can take several forms, but some of the most common are:
  • Falls from heights: Falls from heights are the most common type of scaffold accident. They can result in serious injuries or even death.
  • Collapses or tip-overs: Scaffold collapses or tip-overs can occur if the scaffold is not properly installed or maintained. Workers can be injured if they are on or near the scaffold when it collapses or tips over.
  • Electrocutions: Workers on scaffolds can be electrocuted if they come into contact with electrical wires or other sources of electricity.
  • Struck by falling objects: Workers on scaffolds can be struck by falling objects or debris, which can cause serious injuries.

 Workers Compensation in Connecticut

Workers compensation is a system of insurance that provides benefits to workers who are injured or become ill as a result of their work. In Connecticut, workers compensation is mandatory for most employers. The purpose of workers compensation is to provide benefits to injured workers and their families, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

To be eligible for workers compensation in Connecticut, the worker must:

  • Be an employee
  • Be injured or become ill as a result of their work
  • File a Claim for benefits within the requisite statutory time frame

    If you are injured in a scaffold accident while on the job, you may be entitled to workers compensation benefits. These benefits include:

    • Medical expenses covered under workers compensation: Workers compensation will cover the cost of medical treatment related to the scaffold accident, including hospitalization, doctor's visits, and medication.
    • Lost wages and disability benefits: Workers who are unable to work due to their injuries may be entitled to lost

      wages and disability benefits. The amount of compensation will depend on the severity of the injuries and how long the worker is unable to work.

      • Vocational rehabilitation: Workers who are unable to return to their previous job due to their injuries may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services, such as job training or education.
      • Death benefits: In the unfortunate event that a worker dies as a result of a scaffold accident, their dependents may be eligible for death benefits, including compensation for funeral expenses and ongoing financial support.
    •  What to Do If You're Injured in a Scaffold Accident

      If you're injured in a scaffold accident, it's important to take the following steps:

      1. Seek medical attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Seek medical attention immediately if you are injured in a scaffold accident.
      2. Report the accident to your employer: Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. This will ensure that you are eligible for workers compensation benefits.
      3. File a workers compensation claim: File a workers compensation claim with the Connecticut Workers' Compensation Commission within one year of the accident.
      4. Consult an attorney: Consider consulting an attorney who specializes in workers compensation law. They can help you navigate the complex process and ensure that your rights are protected.

      Scaffold accidents can result in serious injuries or even death, and it's important to know your rights and options under the Connecticut workers compensation law. If you're injured in a scaffold accident, seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to your employer, file a workers compensation claim, and consider consulting an attorney. Remember, workers compensation is designed to provide benefits to injured workers and their families, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

       If you or a loved one has been injured in a scaffold accident, don't wait to take action. Contact an experienced workers compensation attorney today to learn about your rights and options under the law.

About the Author

James Aspell

Principal since August 1, 2006 James F. Aspell is the principal and managing attorney of the firm which he started in 2006 following 20 years of litigation practice in a mid -size firm in Hartford, Connecticut. Jim focuses his practice in the areas of worker's compensation and personal injury l...

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