James' Story
James had been working as a construction labourer for years and was familiar with the risks of the job. But nothing could have prepared him for the accident that happened one morning on site. As he carried heavy materials across the uneven ground, a scaffold collapsed without warning, sending debris crashing down. James was hit hard by falling planks, knocking him to the ground with a sharp pain shooting up his back.
After being taken to the hospital, James learned that he had suffered a spinal injury, requiring immediate surgery and a lengthy recovery period. Unable to work, he worried about how this would affect his ability to provide for his family. The construction company, though sympathetic, initially claimed that the accident was unforeseen and not their fault.
Construction sites are known for their hazards, and while accidents are sometimes unavoidable, workers like James are entitled to compensation through WorkCover. Even when employers argue that the accident was out of their control, it’s critical to investigate thoroughly to determine whether proper safety measures were in place.
Securing Compensation
For James, documenting the scene and getting statements from co-workers who had witnessed the collapse helped support his claim. With legal advice, he was able to access WorkCover benefits that provided for his medical expenses and helped him cover lost wages during his recovery. While the path to recovery was long, having the financial support to focus on healing without the stress of lost income made all the difference for him and his family.