Personal Injury Claims for Independent Contractors: What Are Your Rights?

By
January 9, 2025

The rise in construction jobs in most states gives ample opportunities to independent contractors. These jobs are risky and cause many personal injuries to the contractors, from electrical hazards to stress injuries. Even though independent contractors do not have the same benefits and protection as full-time employees, they have some legal options if they suffer from work injuries.

Hiring a professional personal injury lawyer helps independent contractors know their rights. This blog lists an independent contractor’s rights and personal injury claims.

Which Common Injuries Does an Independent Contractor Suffer From?

Independent contractors are hired to perform particular tasks in the construction industry. They perform several tasks in the construction of a residential or commercial area. These contractors often face problems while receiving compensation in personal injury cases. Independent contractors get fewer benefits than employees in compensation and other fields.

Some of the most common injuries that an independent contractor suffers from are:

  • Electrical Dangers

Industries contain many machines and tools that work with electricity. Subcontractors are always at risk of getting electric shocks while installing or repairing any industrial machine.

  • Falling From a Height

Most independent contractors suffer injuries from falls from a height. These workers often work on ladders or roofs, which increases the risk of falling.

  • Repetitive Injuries

Subcontractors often have to work on large machinery and tools that may cause muscle or neck injuries.

  • Struck By Large Objects

These workers must move bulky objects, such as machines or heavy materials, within an industry. Moving these large objects may increase the risk of getting struck during the work.

  • Severe Injuries

Industries contain several heavyweight objects, such as bulldozers and rames. Operating these heavy objects can cause back pain, neck strain, and other physical injuries.

When Does an Independent Contractor Get the Right to File a Personal Injury Claim?

If an independent contractor is not eligible to file a personal injury claim, he can still receive compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit. Independent contractors should prove the fault and negligence of the other party. They will get a high reward after proving the other party’s negligence.

Kinds Of Recoverable Compensation For The Independent Contractors

Independent contractors can receive compensation for personal injuries if they can prove the negligence of other workers. The compensation covers both economic and non-economic damages, which are explained as follows:

  • Economic damages include compensation for all the financial losses, such as lost wages and the cost of medical treatment.
  • Non-economic damages include compensation for intangible loss. It covers the compensation for losses such as scarring, mental stress, pain, suffering, and depression.

In certain cases, the court of law punishes the defendant and rewards the plaintiff.

Insurance Settlement For Independent Contractors

Contractors who have their own insurance may receive a lot of relief in personal injury cases. These insurance policies will protect them from lawsuits from other parties and provide the necessary compensation.

Importance Of Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney

A personal injury case involves many complexities a personal injury attorney can understand. A lawyer will help protect subcontractors’ rights and get the maximum compensation in personal injury cases.

Lawyers will collect the necessary evidence and analyze the case from start to end. They can also prove the misclassification and frame a proper legal strategy in these cases. They will also show the subcontractors all the legal options available to receive compensation.

Conclusion

Lawyers will handle all the insurance company’s work and negotiate to fetch the maximum amount in these cases. They will allow the independent contractors to focus on recovering from their injuries. The attorney saves time and gives fair justice in every personal injury case.

References:

  1. https://www.triallaw1.com/what-are-my-legal-options-if-injured-as-an-independent-contractor/
  2. https://www.casebarnettlaw.com/blog/who-is-liable-when-independent-contractors-get-hurt-on-the-job-.cfm
  3. https://www.skassellaw.com/what-impacts-do-personal-injury-claims-have-independent-contractor-vs-employee/