Most construction workers are entitled to workers' compensation benefits regardless of fault, including medical expenses, wage loss benefits (typically 80% of your after-tax average weekly wage), vocational rehabilitation, and specific loss benefits for amputations or permanent impairments. Additionally, if a third party (not your employer) caused your injury, you may pursue a separate personal injury claim for full damages including pain and suffering.

Yes. While workers' compensation is typically your exclusive remedy against your direct employer, you can file third-party liability claims against general contractors, subcontractors, property owners, equipment manufacturers, or architects and engineers whose negligence caused your injury. These claims allow recovery of damages workers' compensation doesn't cover, including pain and suffering and full wage loss.

Under Michigan law, a general contractor may be liable for injuries occurring in common work areas shared by multiple trades—even if they didn't directly employ the injured worker. This doctrine creates an important avenue for recovery beyond workers' compensation when inadequate safety measures in shared areas cause injuries.

You must report your injury to your employer within 90 days and file your workers' compensation claim within 2 years. For third-party personal injury claims, the statute of limitations is generally three years. However, product liability claims against equipment manufacturers may have different deadlines. Consulting an attorney promptly ensures you preserve all potential claims.

Document the accident scene with photos and video, including any safety hazards, defective equipment, or missing safety devices. Report the incident to your supervisor immediately and obtain copies of accident reports. Collect contact information from witnesses and keep records of all medical treatment. Preserve any defective equipment if possible. An experienced attorney can help investigate and preserve additional evidence.