Filing a Claim After a Construction Site Injury in Minnesota: Key Steps
Construction is one of Minnesota’s most dangerous professions. From ladder falls to equipment accidents, even the most cautious worker can suffer a serious injury. Most injured workers know about workers’ compensation, but many don’t realize they may also have a personal injury claim — especially if someone besides their employer was at fault.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to understanding your rights and options after a construction accident in Minnesota.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you’ve been injured, the first step is to get medical help — both for your own safety and to establish a medical record. Even if you think the injury is minor, symptoms can worsen over time. Make sure your provider documents how the injury occurred and connects it to the worksite incident.
2. Report the Injury to Your Employer
Minnesota law requires workers to notify their employer as soon as possible — ideally within 14 days — to qualify for workers’ compensation. Even if you plan to pursue a personal injury claim, failing to notify your employer promptly can hurt your ability to receive medical or wage benefits through workers’ comp.
3. Understand What Workers’ Compensation Covers — and What It Doesn’t
Workers’ comp provides:
- Medical treatment
- Partial wage replacement
- Disability benefits (temporary or permanent)
However, it does not cover pain and suffering or allow you to sue your employer for negligence. That’s where third-party claims come in.
4. Identify Possible Third-Party Liability
If your injury was caused by someone other than your employer, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against that party. Common examples include:
- A subcontractor who created a dangerous condition
- A manufacturer of defective equipment
- A property owner who failed to maintain safe conditions
- A negligent driver on a road-adjacent job site
These third-party claims can allow you to recover for:
- Pain and suffering
- Full wage loss
- Emotional distress
- Loss of future earning capacity
This compensation goes beyond what workers’ comp provides.
5. Collect and Preserve Evidence
Construction accidents are often chaotic, and details can get lost quickly. Try to document:
- Photos of the accident site and any hazards
- Statements from witnesses or co-workers
- OSHA or workplace safety violation reports
- All medical records and bills
The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim.
6. Know the Deadlines
- Workers’ compensation: Report within 14 days; file within 3 years of the report (or up to 6 years in some cases)
- Personal injury claim: Typically 2 years from the date of injury in Minnesota
Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation altogether.
7. Work With an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
Construction accident claims can be complex — especially when navigating both workers’ compensation and third-party personal injury cases. An experienced attorney can help by:
- Investigating all potential sources of liability
- Coordinating benefits between workers’ comp and civil court
- Negotiating fair compensation for all your damages
- Protecting your rights from aggressive insurers or employers
You Don’t Have to Settle for Just Workers’ Comp
If you’ve been seriously injured on a construction site, don’t assume workers’ comp is your only option. Many injured workers are eligible for additional compensation, but only if they act quickly and understand their rights.
At Perron Law Office, we fight for construction workers and their families — helping them get the full compensation they deserve, not just what’s offered by the system.
Reach out today for a free consultation, and let us help you explore every legal avenue available.
If you’re looking for a Personal Injury Lawyer in Minneapolis, Perron Law Office is the most trusted name in the Twin Cities area. Simply reach out on (651) 317-8133 to schedule your free consultation.
