Workers’ Compensation Guide for Carpenters Local 1977: Know Your Rights

Carpenters face some of the toughest working conditions in the construction industry, dealing with heavy materials, power tools, and physically demanding tasks daily. As a proud member of Carpenters Local 1977, you have access to union benefits, training, and career support, but do you know what to do if you’re injured on the job?

At Becker & Vail, LLC, we understand the challenges that union carpenters in Clark, Esmeralda, Lincoln, and Nye counties face when filing Workers’ Compensation claims. Whether you’re dealing with a minor injury or a long-term disability, it’s crucial to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Becker & Vail, LLC has provided a workers' compensation guide for Carpenters Local 1977 to help you understand your legal rights.

Common Injuries Among Carpenters

Carpenters perform physically demanding work that exposes them to various workplace hazards. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Falls from Heights – Working on scaffolding, ladders, or elevated structures increases the risk of serious injuries.

  
  

• Repetitive Motion Injuries – Constant hammering, sawing, and lifting can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.

  
  

• Lacerations and Amputations – Working with power tools such as saws and drills puts carpenters at risk of deep cuts or even loss of fingers.

  
  

• Back and Shoulder Strains – Lifting heavy materials can cause muscle strains, herniated discs, and other musculoskeletal disorders.

  
  

• Hearing Loss – Prolonged exposure to loud machinery and construction noise can result in permanent hearing damage.

  
  

• Respiratory Issues – Dust, chemicals, and airborne particles can cause lung diseases and other long-term health complications.

  
  

If you experience any of these work-related injuries, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your rights under Nevada’s Workers’ Compensation laws.

Steps to Take If You’re Injured on the Job

1. Report Your Injury Immediately: Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as the injury occurs. In Nevada, failing to report an injury within 7 days could jeopardize your Workers’ Compensation claim.

2. Seek Medical Treatment: If it’s an emergency, seek immediate medical attention. Otherwise, visit an approved Workers’ Compensation doctor to document your injury and begin the claims process.

3. Complete the Form C-4: This is the official claim for compensation and must be filed within 90 days of the injury. A mistake on this form can result in a denied claim, so consider consulting an attorney before submitting it.

4. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Adhering to your prescribed treatment plan is crucial for both your recovery and the validity of your claim. Missing doctor’s appointments or failing to follow medical advice could hurt your case.

5. Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney: Insurance companies often try to limit benefits or deny claims outright. Having an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Carpenters Local 1977 Members

Under Nevada law, union carpenters injured on the job may be entitled to the following benefits:

• Medical Coverage – Includes doctor visits, surgeries, therapy, and prescription medications related to your injury.

  
  

• Temporary Total Disability (TTD) – Wage replacement if your injury prevents you from working temporarily.

  
  

• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) – Compensation if your injury results in long-term impairment but you can still perform some work.

  
  

• Permanent Total Disability (PTD) – Benefits if you are unable to return to work due to a severe injury.

  
  

• Vocational Rehabilitation – Training and job placement assistance if you can no longer perform carpentry work.

  
  

• Mileage Reimbursement – Compensation for travel costs related to medical treatment.

When to Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

While you have the right to file a claim on your own, insurance companies and employers often look for reasons to reduce or deny benefits. Consider hiring a Workers’ Compensation lawyer if:

• Your claim is delayed or denied – Many legitimate claims are unfairly rejected due to technicalities.

  
  

• You’re pressured to return to work too soon – Employers and insurers may try to cut costs by pushing injured workers back before they’re fully healed.

  
  

• You receive a settlement offer that seems too low – Insurers aim to pay out as little as possible; an attorney can negotiate a fair settlement.

  
  

• Your injury results in long-term disability – Serious injuries that limit your ability to work require experienced legal representation to secure maximum benefits.

Why Choose Becker & Vail, LLC?

At Becker & Vail, LLC, we have a proven track record of helping union workers secure their rightful benefits. Here’s why Carpenters Local 1977 members trust us:

1. Dedicated Union Worker Representation

We understand the unique hazards and risks that union carpenters face and specialize in securing benefits for tradespeople.

2. Expertise in Nevada Workers’ Compensation Law

We know the ins and outs of Nevada’s Workers’ Compensation system and won’t let insurance companies take advantage of you.

3. Lower Contingency Fees = More Money in Your Pocket

Many law firms charge high contingency fees. At Becker & Vail, LLC, we keep fees low so you receive more of your settlement.

Additional Benefits:

Aggressive Advocacy – We fight hard to maximize your benefits and won’t back down from insurers.

Personalized Attention – Your case isn’t just another file to us—we care about your recovery and financial security.

As a Carpenters Local 1977 member, you work hard to build and shape the future of Southern Nevada. If you suffer an injury on the job, don’t let the Workers’ Compensation system shortchange you. At Becker & Vail, LLC, we are here to fight for your rights, ensure you receive full benefits, and help you recover with the financial security you deserve.

If you or a fellow carpenter has been injured at work, or have questions about this workers' compensation guide for Carpenters Local 1977, don’t wait, contact Becker & Vail, LLC today for a consultation and let us protect your future.