5 Ways A Contractor Can Defend Themself After a Workplace Accident
Construction work is usually complex and normally requires support from multiple parties, from contractors and subcontractors to separate third parties. All these different parties increase the risk of error, which can result in expensive construction disputes.
A lot can happen after you get your free contractors’ insurance quote and sign on the dotted line. Most legal claims are a hassle and very expensive. However, if you find yourself having to battle one, don’t worry. Here are some of the things you can do to defend yourself after an accident.
1. Address problems immediately when they arise
Communicate and address all problems as soon as they appear, before they mushroom into any formal claims. As hard as this might seem, set all your emotions aside and try everything you possibly can to de-escalate the situation. If you cooperate with your subcontractor or client, you’ll both have a chance to save time and money.
If someone is injured, get that person to a safe place as soon as you can. Get them away from that area, and make sure your other workers stay clear as well. Once you’ve done this, assess the severity of the injury, assist where you can, gather any relevant information like witness testimonies, photographs of the scene, etc., and then keep this evidence safe.
2. Understand the terms of your contract
An agreement was made before you started working on the project. Go back to this document, review it, and understand all the details involving the construction project and what was agreed upon between all the parties involved. The sections you need to carefully go through at this point include; change order sections, no damage for delay, and dispute resolution methods.
3. Set new risk management standards
Keep your employees safe by developing a risk management and emergency plan and doing everything possible to control risk. If you work in a particularly dangerous job, think of all the safe ways you can complete the work.
Can you solve the problem with the help of some innovative engineering? Or can protective gear help lower any other potential risks? It’s your duty to keep the workplace safe by managing risks and implementing safety protocols.
4. Implement a response plan
Quick response can help reduce the seriousness of certain workplace injuries and the costs linked to them as well. Having a good response plan can help mitigate any further issues. If someone gets injured in the workplace, assist them in filling out claim and treatment consent forms before taking them to the hospital. You can also ensure you get return-to-work release forms from the attending physician.
5. Seek professional help
Smart company leaders know when it’s time to ask for help. Contract jargon can be very intimidating, and you might want to strongly consider having a professional come help you tackle any legal claim as a result of the workplace accident.
Takeaway
There are so many things you can do to help prevent workplace accidents, but sometimes they occur anyway. Hopefully, now you know what you can do to defend yourself in the event one occurs under your watch.
