Construction Workers Workers Comp Guide
Construction claims tend to be more severe than average, which shapes almost everything about how they're handled.
Common Injuries in This Occupation
- Fracture — Lower Extremity
- Back and Spinal Injury
- Amputation — Finger/Hand
- Death Benefits (Survivor Claim)
Why Construction Claims Run More Severe
Falls from height, heavy machinery, and falling objects are leading causes of construction injuries and fatalities — OSHA specifically tracks these as the "Fatal Four" hazards in the industry. This severity skew means construction claims, on average, involve higher settlement values and longer recovery periods than many other occupations.
Subcontractor and Statutory Employer Issues
Construction sites often involve layers of general contractors and subcontractors, which can create genuine confusion about which employer's insurance covers an injury. Most states address this through "statutory employer" rules, making the general contractor responsible for coverage if a subcontractor lacks adequate insurance — but sorting out which policy actually applies can complicate and delay claims.
Common Injuries
Fractures from falls, back and spinal injuries from lifting and repetitive strain, and finger or hand amputations from equipment are all common in this field. The severity of construction injuries also means permanent disability claims are more frequent here than in many lower-risk occupations.
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