According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers experience more nonfatal falls than any other worker in the United States. Countless statistics highlight the dangerous nature of the roofing industry, and no matter which metric you examine, the findings are clear: Roofers contend with numerous on-the-job hazards, many of which result in accidents.
If you are among the many injured roofers in the Golden State, you’re likely facing a range of losses. You may be able to secure compensation for your injuries through a workers’ comp claim, but securing all of the compensation you deserve without legal assistance is sometimes difficult. Luckily, James Koh — a dedicated workers’ comp attorney in California — can fight for your maximum compensation.
This article will explain how to pursue workers’ comp for roofing accidents in California, including common causes of roofing accidents, types of workers’ comp benefits, and more.
Are you struggling to secure the workers’ comp benefits you deserve? Don’t worry — Attorney James Koh can help. Reach out online to schedule a consultation.
Common Causes of Roofing Accidents and Injuries
While some roofing accidents are caused by obvious factors, other hazards are far more subtle. Roofing workers engage in numerous high-risk situations, many of which can precipitate catastrophic injuries. This section will explore some of the main causes of serious accidents in roofing work.
Falls
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that 34% of all fall-related deaths involve roofs. To help prevent these injuries, roofing companies should provide workers with both fall protection training and fall protection equipment. According to the California Department of Occupational Safety and Health, roofers must have adequate fall protection when working at heights of 20 feet or more.
Electrical Hazards
OSHA states that most electrocutions in the roofing industry are caused by overhead powerlines. However, a wide range of additional electrical hazards can cause serious injuries or fatalities – including old power conduits, power tools, and more.
Poor Communication
Effective communication can help prevent severe roofing accidents in California. OSHA specifically highlights the importance of identifying and labeling hazardous substances. Unfortunately, verbal communication can be very challenging in the roofing industry due to hammering, machinery, and other loud noises.
Extreme Temperatures
One of the most overlooked hazards in the roofing industry is the presence of extreme temperatures. Torch-applied roofing involves temperatures of over 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Aside from direct burns, this equipment may spark fires without workers noticing. Even when they’re not working with this equipment, roofers may struggle with extreme outdoor temperatures. During the hot summer months in California, roofers can easily suffer from heat exhaustion, increasing their risk of fainting and falling.
Safety Violations
Many fall-related roofing accidents occur due to safety violations. OSHA states that the most common violations in the roofing industry involve:
- Lack of fall protection
- Ladder violations
- Lack of training
- Lack of face/eye protection
- Scaffold violations
- Lack of head protection
- Hazard communication violations
When roofers suffer fall injuries as a result of these violations, they can file a workers’ compensation claim to receive financial benefits. California requires virtually all businesses to carry workers’ comp insurance, it only applies to employees — not independent contractors.
The Most Common Roofing Accident Injuries
A recent study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) explored the most common injuries associated with roof injuries and fall-related trauma. The researchers narrowed their results into a few distinct categories, which we explore below.
Injuries to the Extremities
The NIH study found that 36 percent of all roof falls caused injuries to the extremities. Injuries of this nature include fractured limbs, sprains, strains, and nerve injuries. Many falling roofers attempt to cushion their falls with outstretched arms or legs, which inevitably leads to fractures.
Head Injuries
NIH data shows that 31 percent of all roof falls cause head injuries. These include concussions, hemorrhages, and other consequences of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Many of these injuries prove fatal, while others lead to permanent disabilities. A roofer may be more likely to suffer a TBI after falling backward from a raised platform.
Chest Injuries
About 30 percent of all roof falls caused chest injuries, according to the NIH study. These included fractured ribs, fractured sternums, and bruising of the lungs. Falls of considerable distances can easily cause catastrophic internal organ damage that requires emergency and long-term medical care.
Pelvic Injuries
The study also revealed that 27 percent of falls caused pelvic and abdominal injuries. Perhaps the most obvious example is a fractured hip, an injury that can easily lead to permanent disability. Fractured hips are especially problematic with older workers, as these individuals may struggle with osteoporosis. That being said, hip fractures can affect roofers of all ages.
Non-Fall-Related Injuries
Although falls represent the most common cause of roofing injuries, there are many others to consider. Electrical hazards may cause serious and even fatal burns. In addition, hazardous materials like asbestos can lead to terminal illnesses, including mesothelioma.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Can You Pursue for a Roofer Accident Injury?
Your workers’ compensation benefits depend on various factors, including the total of your missed wages and treatment costs. Here is a basic overview of the workers’ compensation benefits available to injured workers in California:
Medical Benefits
Workers’ compensation covers all of your medical expenses. You should receive coverage for not only emergency treatment but also subsequent appointments with doctors and specialists. You may also receive compensation for medical costs like physical therapy and prescribed medications.
Disability Benefits
A workers’ compensation policy should cover a portion of your missed wages, giving you enough time to rest and heal. You’ll receive two-thirds of your missed wages (up to a certain maximum) until you’re ready to return to work. If your accident caused a permanent disability, you may continue to receive disability benefits indefinitely.
Death Benefits
If you are the dependent of a deceased roofer who died in a fatal accident, you may be entitled to death benefits. These benefits can help cover funeral costs and lost future wages for widowed spouses, children, and other dependents.
The Process for Pursuing Workers’ Compensation Benefits for a Roofer Accident Injury
In the wake of a serious work-related injury, it can be challenging to think clearly about your next steps. That’s why roofers need to plan ahead and understand the benefits afforded by workers’ compensation insurance. This section will explore the process for pursuing workers’ comp benefits for a roof-related workplace injury.
Seek Medical Attention
Accept medical treatment at the scene of the accident, allow yourself to be transported to the nearest hospital, and follow any additional steps recommended by doctors. Do not make the mistake of refusing treatment to avoid medical costs, as this may make pursuing workers’ compensation impossible. Remember, you can only get workers’ compensation for injuries that are clearly documented in your medical records. There is no reason to avoid treatment, as your claim should cover all medical costs. Even if you believe that your injuries are relatively minor, it is worth getting an official diagnosis from a licensed doctor in California.
File an Accident Report
The next step is to file an accident report. Avoid describing the accident to your employer verbally, as these reports are not “official” according to the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). Your employer should provide you with Form DWC-1, which you’ll need to fill out and return. Before you begin the accident reporting process, consider enlisting the help of a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer in California. Remember, even small mistakes can lead to needless delays and denials.
Appeal if Necessary
Your claim might be denied by your employer’s insurance company. If this occurs, you can still appeal your denied claim with help from a workers’ compensation lawyer. Your attorney can review your employer’s insurance policy, gather evidence from medical providers, and negotiate with insurance providers on your behalf.
Workers’ Comp for Roofing Accidents FAQs
If you suffered injuries in a roofing accident, you’re likely dealing with various losses. Navigating the workers’ compensation system without legal assistance can leave you with more questions than answers, which is why it’s a good idea to partner with an attorney early on. In the meantime, read through the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Can injured roofers get workers’ comp?
As long as you are not an independent contractor, you are eligible for workers’ compensation after a roofing accident. However, you could lose eligibility if insurers prove you were intoxicated at the time of the accident.
Can contract employees get compensation after a work injury?
Independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation in California. That being said, your employer may have incorrectly classified you as a roofing contractor instead of an employee. Your workers’ compensation lawyer for roofing accidents can help you push back in this situation.
What’s the best way to prevent roofer injuries in the workplace?
OSHA outlines several ways in which employers can protect their roofers. These steps include planning, training, fall protection, and hazard communication.
What should I do after a work injury?
Your first step after a work injury should be to prioritize your health. Seek treatment immediately and worry about the legal steps later. Once your condition stabilizes, connect with a workers’ compensation lawyer for roofing accidents. These legal professionals can guide you through the next steps.
Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Roofing Accidents
A roofing accident can change your life forever. For many roofers, catastrophic injuries take away all future income while medical bills continue to pile up. Additionally, if your loved one died in a roofing accident, you likely face an uphill battle against poverty. It is important to remember that you’re not alone in this fight.
With help from an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer for roofing accidents, financial security could be right around the corner. Book a consultation with James Koh today to learn more about your legal options and confidently pursue the compensation you deserve.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers experience more nonfatal falls than any other worker in the United States. Countless statistics highlight the dangerous nature of the roofing industry, and no matter which metric you examine, the findings are clear: Roofers contend with numerous on-the-job hazards, many of which result in accidents.
If you are among the many injured roofers in the Golden State, you’re likely facing a range of losses. You may be able to secure compensation for your injuries through a workers’ comp claim, but securing all of the compensation you deserve without legal assistance is sometimes difficult. Luckily, James Koh — a dedicated workers’ comp attorney in California — can fight for your maximum compensation.
This article will explain how to pursue workers’ comp for roofing accidents in California, including common causes of roofing accidents, types of workers’ comp benefits, and more.
Are you struggling to secure the workers’ comp benefits you deserve? Don’t worry — Attorney James Koh can help. Reach out online to schedule a consultation.
Common Causes of Roofing Accidents and Injuries
While some roofing accidents are caused by obvious factors, other hazards are far more subtle. Roofing workers engage in numerous high-risk situations, many of which can precipitate catastrophic injuries. This section will explore some of the main causes of serious accidents in roofing work.
Falls
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that 34% of all fall-related deaths involve roofs. To help prevent these injuries, roofing companies should provide workers with both fall protection training and fall protection equipment. According to the California Department of Occupational Safety and Health, roofers must have adequate fall protection when working at heights of 20 feet or more.
Electrical Hazards
OSHA states that most electrocutions in the roofing industry are caused by overhead powerlines. However, a wide range of additional electrical hazards can cause serious injuries or fatalities – including old power conduits, power tools, and more.
Poor Communication
Effective communication can help prevent severe roofing accidents in California. OSHA specifically highlights the importance of identifying and labeling hazardous substances. Unfortunately, verbal communication can be very challenging in the roofing industry due to hammering, machinery, and other loud noises.
Extreme Temperatures
One of the most overlooked hazards in the roofing industry is the presence of extreme temperatures. Torch-applied roofing involves temperatures of over 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Aside from direct burns, this equipment may spark fires without workers noticing. Even when they’re not working with this equipment, roofers may struggle with extreme outdoor temperatures. During the hot summer months in California, roofers can easily suffer from heat exhaustion, increasing their risk of fainting and falling.
Safety Violations
Many fall-related roofing accidents occur due to safety violations. OSHA states that the most common violations in the roofing industry involve:
- Lack of fall protection
- Ladder violations
- Lack of training
- Lack of face/eye protection
- Scaffold violations
- Lack of head protection
- Hazard communication violations
When roofers suffer fall injuries as a result of these violations, they can file a workers’ compensation claim to receive financial benefits. California requires virtually all businesses to carry workers’ comp insurance, it only applies to employees — not independent contractors.
The Most Common Roofing Accident Injuries
A recent study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) explored the most common injuries associated with roof injuries and fall-related trauma. The researchers narrowed their results into a few distinct categories, which we explore below.
Injuries to the Extremities
The NIH study found that 36 percent of all roof falls caused injuries to the extremities. Injuries of this nature include fractured limbs, sprains, strains, and nerve injuries. Many falling roofers attempt to cushion their falls with outstretched arms or legs, which inevitably leads to fractures.
Head Injuries
NIH data shows that 31 percent of all roof falls cause head injuries. These include concussions, hemorrhages, and other consequences of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Many of these injuries prove fatal, while others lead to permanent disabilities. A roofer may be more likely to suffer a TBI after falling backward from a raised platform.
Chest Injuries
About 30 percent of all roof falls caused chest injuries, according to the NIH study. These included fractured ribs, fractured sternums, and bruising of the lungs. Falls of considerable distances can easily cause catastrophic internal organ damage that requires emergency and long-term medical care.
Pelvic Injuries
The study also revealed that 27 percent of falls caused pelvic and abdominal injuries. Perhaps the most obvious example is a fractured hip, an injury that can easily lead to permanent disability. Fractured hips are especially problematic with older workers, as these individuals may struggle with osteoporosis. That being said, hip fractures can affect roofers of all ages.
Non-Fall-Related Injuries
Although falls represent the most common cause of roofing injuries, there are many others to consider. Electrical hazards may cause serious and even fatal burns. In addition, hazardous materials like asbestos can lead to terminal illnesses, including mesothelioma.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Can You Pursue for a Roofer Accident Injury?
Your workers’ compensation benefits depend on various factors, including the total of your missed wages and treatment costs. Here is a basic overview of the workers’ compensation benefits available to injured workers in California:
Medical Benefits
Workers’ compensation covers all of your medical expenses. You should receive coverage for not only emergency treatment but also subsequent appointments with doctors and specialists. You may also receive compensation for medical costs like physical therapy and prescribed medications.
Disability Benefits
A workers’ compensation policy should cover a portion of your missed wages, giving you enough time to rest and heal. You’ll receive two-thirds of your missed wages (up to a certain maximum) until you’re ready to return to work. If your accident caused a permanent disability, you may continue to receive disability benefits indefinitely.
Death Benefits
If you are the dependent of a deceased roofer who died in a fatal accident, you may be entitled to death benefits. These benefits can help cover funeral costs and lost future wages for widowed spouses, children, and other dependents.
The Process for Pursuing Workers’ Compensation Benefits for a Roofer Accident Injury
In the wake of a serious work-related injury, it can be challenging to think clearly about your next steps. That’s why roofers need to plan ahead and understand the benefits afforded by workers’ compensation insurance. This section will explore the process for pursuing workers’ comp benefits for a roof-related workplace injury.
Seek Medical Attention
Accept medical treatment at the scene of the accident, allow yourself to be transported to the nearest hospital, and follow any additional steps recommended by doctors. Do not make the mistake of refusing treatment to avoid medical costs, as this may make pursuing workers’ compensation impossible. Remember, you can only get workers’ compensation for injuries that are clearly documented in your medical records. There is no reason to avoid treatment, as your claim should cover all medical costs. Even if you believe that your injuries are relatively minor, it is worth getting an official diagnosis from a licensed doctor in California.
File an Accident Report
The next step is to file an accident report. Avoid describing the accident to your employer verbally, as these reports are not “official” according to the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC). Your employer should provide you with Form DWC-1, which you’ll need to fill out and return. Before you begin the accident reporting process, consider enlisting the help of a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer in California. Remember, even small mistakes can lead to needless delays and denials.
Appeal if Necessary
Your claim might be denied by your employer’s insurance company. If this occurs, you can still appeal your denied claim with help from a workers’ compensation lawyer. Your attorney can review your employer’s insurance policy, gather evidence from medical providers, and negotiate with insurance providers on your behalf.
Roofing Accidents FAQs
If you suffered injuries in a roofing accident, you’re likely dealing with various losses. Navigating the workers’ compensation system without legal assistance can leave you with more questions than answers, which is why it’s a good idea to partner with an attorney early on. In the meantime, read through the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Can injured roofers get workers’ comp?
As long as you are not an independent contractor, you are eligible for workers’ compensation after a roofing accident. However, you could lose eligibility if insurers prove you were intoxicated at the time of the accident.
Can contract employees get compensation after a work injury?
Independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation in California. That being said, your employer may have incorrectly classified you as a roofing contractor instead of an employee. Your workers’ compensation lawyer for roofing accidents can help you push back in this situation.
What’s the best way to prevent roofer injuries in the workplace?
OSHA outlines several ways in which employers can protect their roofers. These steps include planning, training, fall protection, and hazard communication.
What should I do after a work injury?
Your first step after a work injury should be to prioritize your health. Seek treatment immediately and worry about the legal steps later. Once your condition stabilizes, connect with a workers’ compensation lawyer for roofing accidents. These legal professionals can guide you through the next steps.
Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Roofing Accidents
A roofing accident can change your life forever. For many roofers, catastrophic injuries take away all future income while medical bills continue to pile up. Additionally, if your loved one died in a roofing accident, you likely face an uphill battle against poverty. It is important to remember that you’re not alone in this fight.
With help from an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer for roofing accidents, financial security could be right around the corner. Book a consultation with James Koh today to learn more about your legal options and confidently pursue the compensation you deserve.
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If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, please contact us to assist you with your workers’ compensation claims.
