Construction Accident Lawyer Kansas City

Injured on a Construction Job in KC?

Construction workers are asked to perform their jobs in some of the most dangerous environments in the world. Every year, more than a million hardworking men and women are injured on construction sites. Some accidents are simply acts of God. Most, however, are the result of negligence on the part of the property owner, equipment manufacturer, and other subcontractors on site.

Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman is a prominent personal injury trial law firm serving construction workers throughout Missouri, Kansas and the Midwest. We understand the dangerous conditions on a job site and we know how to investigate your accident to uncover every liable party.

“In most cases, workers' compensation won’t be enough to cover your financial losses after a construction site injury. There may be third parties who are responsible for your injuries. We seek maximum money damages from every responsible party.” 
- Partner, Scott Nutter

Call (816) 542-5999 or contact us online today to schedule a free case evaluation.

Common Types of Construction Accidents

Construction accidents take many forms, and each one can lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common types include:

• Falls from Heights: Workers may fall from scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops, resulting in broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries.
• Falling Objects: Tools, materials, or debris dropped from above can strike workers, causing head injuries or other serious harm.
• Machinery Accidents: Heavy equipment such as cranes, forklifts, or bulldozers can malfunction or be improperly operated, leading to crushing or amputation injuries.
• Electrocutions: Contact with exposed wires, power lines, or faulty equipment can cause severe burns, heart damage, or death.
• Trench and Scaffold Collapses: Improperly secured trenches and scaffolds may give way, trapping workers and leading to catastrophic injuries.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Uneven ground, spills, or cluttered walkways create hazards that can result in injuries ranging from sprains to fractures.
• Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Workers exposed to asbestos, chemicals, or toxic fumes may suffer long-term health conditions such as respiratory illnesses.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

While some accidents are unavoidable, many are caused by negligence, carelessness, or failure to follow safety standards. Frequent causes include:

• Lack of Proper Training: Workers without adequate training are at higher risk of accidents.
• Failure to Follow OSHA Standards: Employers who ignore workplace safety regulations put employees in danger.
• Defective Equipment: Faulty tools, machines, or protective gear may fail during use.
• Inadequate Supervision: Poor oversight often leads to unsafe practices and preventable mistakes.
• Unsafe Work Conditions: Unsecured scaffolding, poorly maintained worksites, or unmarked hazards increase the likelihood of accidents.
• Rushed Timelines: Contractors under pressure to meet deadlines may cut corners on safety.

At Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman, we investigate every detail of your accident to determine the exact cause and identify all liable parties.

Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims in Missouri

After a construction accident in Kansas City, you may have multiple legal options.

Workers’ Compensation

Missouri law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This system provides medical care and partial wage replacement for injured workers, regardless of fault. However, workers’ compensation does not cover pain and suffering or full lost wages, which often leaves victims without the financial support they need.

Third-Party Claims

In some cases, another party besides your employer may be responsible for your accident. For example:

• A subcontractor who created unsafe conditions.
• A manufacturer of defective machinery or equipment.
• A property owner who failed to address hazards on the site.

When negligence by a third party is involved, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages, including pain and suffering, full lost income, and long-term care expenses.

Our Kansas City construction accident lawyer at Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman can help determine whether you have a valid third-party claim in addition to workers’ compensation.

Construction Accident FAQs

What should I do after a construction accident in Kansas City?

Seek immediate medical attention, report the injury to your employer, and document everything—take photos, gather witness information, and keep medical records. Then, consult with a construction accident lawyer to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file a claim in Missouri?

For workers’ compensation, you must notify your employer within 30 days of the accident and file a claim within two years. For third-party lawsuits, Missouri’s statute of limitations generally allows five years from the date of injury, but exceptions apply.

What damages can I recover from a construction accident claim?

Through workers’ compensation, you can receive medical care, disability benefits, and partial wage replacement. In a third-party claim, you may also recover compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost future earnings, and more.

Do I need a lawyer if I already filed for workers’ compensation?

Yes. Insurance companies often minimize benefits or deny valid claims. A lawyer can ensure you receive the maximum compensation available and explore additional legal options.

How much does it cost to hire Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.

Why Turn to Us? Prominence and Results.

Our attorneys have long been known in the legal community as among the best trial attorneys in the Midwest. The many types of recognition they have received include:

• Listed in The Best Lawyers in America Directory for more than 25 years
• Top 10 and Top 50 Super Lawyers in Kansas, Missouri, and Kansas City
• Fellows and members of exclusive, invitation-only national trial attorneys associations, including the International Academy of Trial Attorneys (limited to the top 500 trial attorneys in the U.S.)

We have recovered millions of dollars in money damages in settlements and verdicts for victims of negligence throughout the Midwest. In fact, our clients often refer friends, families, and co-workers to us because of our commitment to integrity and vigorous representation that is focused on maximum results.

You can call us at (816) 542-5999 to arrange a free consultation. If you can’t come to us, we’ll try our best to come to you. Contact us today.