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Boston Personal Injury Lawyer

Boston Workplace Injury Lawyer

Your Rights, Your Recovery, Your Future

Free Consultation

Law office of John J. Sheehan
Workplace Injuries

Won for our clients

$1.5 Million

Construction Site Accident

Steel I-beam accident on a construction site, resulting in TBI and thoracic spine fracture, fractured ribs

Steel I-Beam fell from wood framing and fell on welder who suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), thoracic spine compression fracture, fractured clavicle, fractured ribs and crushed foot/ankle. Following extensive litigation with the general contractor, subcontractors and suppliers to the job site, case settled at mediation.

$800,000

Trip and Fall at Work

A wire loop hazard on a demolished construction floor caused a trip & fall with a right patella fracture and neck injury

Employee was caused to trip and fall at work on construction site. While walking across demolished floor of building being renovated, employee was caused to trip on a wire loop that was protruding from the demolished concrete floor. Employee was caused to fall forward landing on his knees. Employee sustained multiple injuries including a right patella fracture and neck injury. Eventually, Employee right patellofemoral replacement surgery. MRI of the cervical spine confirmed foraminal narrowing of C5-6 and C6-7 with possible compression of the C6 and C7 nerve roots. Employee filed a lawsuit to pursue third-party personal injury claims against the general contractor, demolition subcontractor and site subcontractor for the construction site where his accident occurred. The workers’ comp claim settled for $350,000 with liability accepted for future medical treatment. The third-party claim settled at mediation with all defendants for $450,000. In addition to the workers’ comp and third-party claims, Employee successfully filed for SSDI benefits.

$700,000

Construction Fall From Ladder

Ladder fall at work, resulting in a fractured and dislocated ankle with talus displacement

Employee was working as a master carpenter when he fell from a ladder and sustained multiple injuries including fractured and dislocated ankle with displacement of the talus. Employee underwent multiple surgeries to treat the ankle fracture including open reduction with internal fixation and hardware removal. Employee developed an infection of the ankle requiring multiple surgeries including skin graft surgeries. Employee developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (“CRPS”) of the lower extremity. Employee underwent Spinal Cord Stimulator surgery for chronic pain management related to the CRPS. Workers Comp claim settled prior to a Conference on Employee’s claim for §34A Permanent and Total Incapacity Benefits.

$656,000

Slip and Fall at Construction Site

Carpenter foreman slipped on ice at a construction site, causing an L4–5 herniated disc requiring surgery

Carpenter foreman slipped and fell on ice at construction site. Client injured his lower back and suffered a herniated disc at L4-5 with impingement requiring surgery. Settled workers’ comp claim for $200,000 and third-party claim against general contractor for $456,000.

$625,000

Pedestrian Hit By Car

Pedestrian pinned under a truck, suffering displaced compound tibia/fibula fractures

Pedestrian was standing by his uncle’s landscaping truck that was parked on the side of the road when a car hit the back of the truck and hit the pedestrian pinning him under the landscaping truck. Pedestrian sustained multiple severe and permanent injuries including displaced compound fractures to the tibia and fibula, clavicle fracture and multiple abrasions and contusion. Pedestrian underwent multiple surgeries to repair the fractures and skin grafting. Case settled prior to filing suit.

Types of Workplace Injuries We Handle

With over 30 years of experience representing injured workers throughout Massachusetts, Attorney John J. Sheehan has handled workplace accidents across every industry. In 2024, Massachusetts recorded over 41,000 workplace injuries requiring time away from work, affecting workers in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and countless other fields.

- Falls from Heights - Scaffolding collapses, roof falls, ladder accidents, floor opening falls.
- Struck-By Accidents - Falling tools, crane accidents, vehicle strikes, flying debris.
- Electrocution Injuries - Power line contact, defective equipment, wet condition accidents.
- Caught-In/Between Accidents - Trench collapses, machinery entanglement, crushing injuries.
- Equipment Malfunctions - Forklift accidents, bulldozer rollovers, power tool failures.
- Chemical Exposure - Asbestos, lead paint, toxic substance poisoning.
- Boston Construction Accident Lawyer
- Chemical Exposure - Cleaning agents, medical gases, sterilization chemicals‍
- Patient Lifting Injuries - Back strains, herniated discs, and shoulder injuries from patient transfers
- Needle Stick Accidents - Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, hepatitis, HIV risks
- Slips and Falls - Wet hospital floors, spilled medications, uneven surfaces
- Workplace Violence - Patient assaults, visitor altercations, security incidents
- Repetitive Stress Injuries - From computer work, patient care activities.
- Machine Entanglement - Fingers, hands, or clothing caught in unguarded machinery
- Forklift Accidents - Tip-overs, struck-by incidents, loading dock falls
- Chemical Burns - Acid exposure, solvent contact, industrial cleaning agents
- Repetitive Motion Injuries - Carpal tunnel, tendonitis from assembly line work
- Heavy Lifting Injuries - Back strains, herniated discs, shoulder tears
- ‍Conveyor Belt Accidents - Caught-in incidents, crushing injuries
- Slip and Fall Accidents - Wet floors, loose carpeting, poor lighting, icy walkways
- Falling Object Injuries - Items falling from shelves, cabinets, storage areas
- Repetitive Stress Injuries - Carpal tunnel syndrome, neck strain from computer work
- Ergonomic Injuries - Back pain from poor workstation setup, eye strain
- Workplace Violence - Assaults by coworkers, customers, or intruders‍
- Stair Accidents - Falls on defective stairs, missing handrails, and poor lighting
- Motor Vehicle Accidents - Delivery truck crashes, company car accidents, work-related travel
- Loading Dock Accidents - Falls from platforms, struck by moving vehicles, and lifting injuries
- Delivery Route Injuries - Dog attacks, slip and falls, criminal assaults
- Commercial Vehicle Rollovers - Truck tip-overs, bus accidents, equipment transport crashes‍
- Cargo-Related Injuries - Falling loads, improper securing, loading/unloading accidents
- Kitchen Accidents - Burns from fryers, grills, steam equipment, and hot oil splashes
- Knife and Glass Cuts - Deep lacerations requiring surgery, permanent scarring
- Floor Accidents - Slips on grease, wet surfaces, food spills, broken tiles
- Robbery and Violence - Customer assaults, robbery attempts, workplace shootings
- Chemical Exposure - Cleaning agents, pest control chemicals, food preservation substances‍
- Repetitive Motion Injuries - Cashier wrist strain, stocking shoulder injuries

Call Today for Your Free Consultation

Don't wait. Massachusetts has strict time limits for filing workplace injury claims. Contact Attorney John J. Sheehan today to protect your rights and your family's future.

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Your Rights Regardless of Immigration Status

If you are injured at work in Massachusetts, you have rights under state law regardless of your immigration status. This includes undocumented workers.

Many injured workers fear that filing a claim will lead to deportation or immigration problems. This fear is unfounded. Massachusetts has strong protections for all workers:

Workers' Compensation Rights: Since 2003, Massachusetts law has guaranteed workers' comp benefits regardless of immigration status
Personal Injury Claims: You can pursue third-party claims against negligent parties - immigration status is not relevant
Complete Confidentiality: The Law Office of John J. Sheehan does not share client information with immigration authorities
Protection from Retaliation: Massachusetts law prohibits employers from threatening workers with ICE reports for filing injury claims
Attorney General Support: The MA Attorney General explicitly states, "all workers are entitled to employment protections irrespective of immigration status."

Compensation Available in Massachusetts Workplace Accidents

Attorney Sheehan fights for every dollar you deserve through both workers' compensation and third-party claims:

Workers' Compensation Benefits

Medical expenses - All necessary medical treatment related to your workplace injury
Lost wage benefits - Approximately 60 to 66% of your average weekly wage
Specific Compensation - Permanent impairment caused by work injury and visible scarring/disfigurement
Vocational rehabilitation - Retraining for different work if you cannot return to your job
Death benefits - Support for surviving family members in fatal workplace accidents

Third-Party Claim Damages (Much Greater Compensation)

Economic Damages

Full medical expenses - Hospital bills, surgery, physical therapy, future medical care
Complete lost wages - 100% of income missed (past and future), not just the partial workers' comp amount
Lost earning capacity - Reduced future income potential due to permanent limitations
Property damage - Personal tools, equipment, vehicle damage in workplace accidents
Out-of-pocket expenses - Transportation, household help, prescription costs, modifications

Non-Economic Damages (Pain and Suffering)

Physical pain and suffering - Compensation for injury-related pain and discomfort
Emotional distress - Anxiety, depression, PTSD following workplace trauma
Loss of enjoyment of life - Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
Permanent disability or disfigurement - Long-term limitations, amputations, scarring
Loss of consortium - Impact on family relationships and spousal companionship

Punitive Damages

In cases of extreme negligence or willful safety violations, Massachusetts courts may award punitive damages to punish wrongdoers and prevent future violations. Attorney Sheehan has successfully pursued punitive damages against companies with repeated OSHA violations.

Understanding OSHA Violations in Massachusetts Workplace Accidents

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets workplace safety standards that employers must follow. When these standards are violated and workers are injured, it strengthens both workers' compensation and third-party injury claims.

Common OSHA Violations Leading to Workplace Injuries

Fall Protection Failures - Inadequate guardrails, missing safety harnesses, unprotected floor openings
Machine Guarding Defects - Unguarded moving parts, missing safety switches, bypassed protective devices
Electrical Safety Violations - Improper wiring, missing ground fault interrupters, live wire exposure
Hazard Communication Failures - Unlabeled chemicals, missing safety data sheets, inadequate training
Personal Protective Equipment - Failure to provide required safety equipment, inadequate training
Emergency Action Plans - Missing evacuation procedures, blocked emergency exits, inadequate fire safety

How OSHA Violations Strengthen Your Case

Enhanced Workers' Compensation: Massachusetts law allows for double workers' compensation benefits when an employer's serious and willful misconduct causes injury. OSHA violations can provide evidence of this misconduct.

Third-Party Liability: OSHA violations by general contractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers create strong evidence of negligence in personal injury lawsuits.

Retaliation Protection: Federal and state laws protect workers who report OSHA violations. If you're fired or punished for reporting safety problems, you may have additional claims.

Massachusetts Workplace Safety Statistics

On average, 67 workplace fatalities occur annually in Massachusetts
Manufacturing, construction, and transportation show the highest injury rates
Back injuries, cuts, and falls are the most common workplace accidents
‍Latino workers face disproportionately high workplace injury rates due to language barriers and safety training gaps

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Real Stories from real clients

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‍Why Workplace Injury Victims Choose Attorney John J. Sheehan

Immediate Action
We step in quickly to protect your rights, secure medical care, and deal with insurance companies.
Proven Results
With over 30 years of experience and millions recovered, we know how to build strong cases and push for the maximum compensation.
Hablamos Español
We explain every step of the process in simple terms — in English or Spanish — so nothing gets lost in translation.

How Attorney Sheehan Handles Your Boston Workplace Injury Case

The Law Office of John J. Sheehan handles every step so you can focus on getting better:

Step
1
Attorney Sheehan personally reviews your workplace accident details in Spanish or English, explains your legal rights under Massachusetts law, and determines both workers' compensation and third-party claim potential. This consultation costs nothing and creates no obligation.
Step
2
Attorney Sheehan's team preserves critical evidence, photographs the accident scene, identifies all potentially liable parties, files OSHA complaints when safety violations occurred, and ensures accident reports are properly documented before evidence disappears.
Step
3
The Law Office of John J. Sheehan gathers incident reports, interviews witnesses, obtains surveillance footage, reviews safety records and OSHA inspection history, consults workplace safety professionals, and works with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries.
Step
4
Attorney Sheehan connects you with top medical providers experienced in workplace injuries who can work with attorney liens if workers' compensation benefits are delayed or insufficient. Your health and recovery come first.
Step
5
The Law Office of John J. Sheehan handles all communication with workers' compensation carriers and third-party insurance companies, files all necessary claims with the Department of Industrial Accidents, documents your damages comprehensively, and demands fair compensation based on your case's true value.
Step
6
Armed with complete documentation of your injuries, lost wages, and lifetime impact, Attorney Sheehan negotiates aggressively with all insurance companies to secure maximum compensation for both your workers' comp and third-party claims.
Step
7
If insurance companies refuse fair settlement offers, The Law Office of John J. Sheehan prepares your case for trial. Attorney Sheehan's trial experience often motivates better settlement offers when insurers see we're ready to go to court.
Step
8
Once Attorney Sheehan secures your settlement or verdict, our office handles all final paperwork, coordinates workers' comp liens, and ensures you receive your full compensation as quickly as possible.

Our Legal Process

Meet Our Team

Since 1993, Attorney John Sheehan has represented injured workers and accident victims across Massachusetts, fighting for justice against powerful insurers and corporations. Fluent in Spanish and deeply involved in Boston’s Hispanic community, John has earned a reputation for listening, explaining complex legal matters, and securing maximum compensation for his clients.

Behind John is a strong team of legal professionals who share one goal: providing each client with direct counsel and relentless advocacy. With decades of legal experience, we approach each case with the understanding that every injury and every person is unique.

Learn More John J. Sheehan

John J. Sheehan

John J. Sheehan

Managing Attorney

Gianpiere Alcantara
Associate Attorney
Mary Lopez
Senior Paralegal and Office Coordinator
Santina Sheehan
Office Manager/HR Generalist

Serving Workplace Injury Victims Throughout Massachusetts

Lawrence
Methuen
Haverhill
Lynn
Chelsea
Revere
Everett
Malden

More Cities We Cover

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Wakefield Office
Law Office of John J. Sheehan, LLC 607 North, Ave, Suite 2A-12 Wakefield, MA 01880
Boston Office
Law Office of John J. Sheehan, LLC 10 Tremont St. Suite 309
Boston, MA 02108

Frequently Asked Questions About Boston Workplace Injuries

Yes. Massachusetts law protects workers' compensation and personal injury rights regardless of immigration status. Since 2003, the MA Supreme Court has affirmed that undocumented workers are entitled to the same benefits as U.S. citizens. Attorney John J. Sheehan handles cases confidentially and doesn't share client information with immigration authorities.
Workers' compensation is no-fault insurance covering medical expenses and partial lost wages from your employer's insurer. Third-party claims are lawsuits against parties OTHER than your direct employer (general contractors, equipment manufacturers, property owners), providing much greater compensation, including pain and suffering and full lost wages.
Yes. You can receive workers' comp benefits while Attorney Sheehan pursues third-party claims. Both proceed simultaneously, ensuring immediate medical coverage while building your larger personal injury case for maximum compensation.
Attorney John J. Sheehan is personally fluent in Spanish and conducts all consultations, negotiations, and legal work directly in Spanish. Unlike firms where only receptionists speak Spanish, Attorney Sheehan provides attorney-level bilingual representation with no need for interpreters. "Cuando hable conmigo, nada se pierde en la comunicación™"
Initial consultation is completely free. Attorney Sheehan works on contingency for workplace injury cases - you pay nothing unless he recovers compensation. No upfront costs, no hourly fees - payment only comes from settlements or verdicts we secure.
Some employers illegally operate without workers' comp insurance. This doesn't eliminate your rights. You may be able to receive workers’ compensation through the Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Trust Fund if your employer did not have workers’ comp insurance. You may be able to sue your employer directly for the full value of your injuries, plus pursue third-party claims. Attorney Sheehan identifies all available compensation sources.
No. Massachusetts law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who file workers' compensation or personal injury claims. If you're fired in retaliation, you may have additional wrongful termination claims worth significant compensation.
Massachusetts follows comparative negligence rules. You can recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% at fault for third-party claims. Your fault percentage reduces your award. Workers' comp is no-fault, so your own actions don't affect those benefits.
Never give recorded statements to insurance companies without first consulting Attorney Sheehan. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions designed to minimize your claim. Politely decline and refer them to The Law Office of John J. Sheehan.
You must report workplace injuries to your employer immediately. Workers' compensation claims can be filed up to four years after injury, but waiting hurts your case. Third-party personal injury claims have a three-year statute of limitations. Contact Attorney Sheehan immediately to protect all your rights.
Attorney Sheehan can connect you with medical providers who treat workplace injury victims on a lien basis, meaning they wait for payment until your case resolves. He also fights to get the wrongfully denied workers' comp benefits approved quickly.
Yes. While your employer may require you to be evaluated by the company doctor first, you have the right to choose your own doctor. Massachusetts law allows you to choose your treating physician, unless you've signed an employment contract that gives your employer this right. Attorney Sheehan ensures you get proper medical care from doctors experienced in workplace injuries.
If you returned to work following a workplace injury and your injury is worse, report it to your employer, go to your doctor to report the worsening, and get a new out-of-work note. Give a copy of the new out-of-work note to your employer. Then contact Attorney Sheehan for a free consultation to discuss your workers’ comp case.
Yes. Reporting OSHA violations protects other workers and strengthens your case. Attorney Sheehan can file OSHA complaints on your behalf, and violations often serve as powerful evidence of negligence in third-party claims.
In Massachusetts, workplace injury cases are administered by the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA). If the insurance company denies your claim or stops your workers’ comp checks, Attorney Sheehan will file a Form 110 Employee Claim with the DIA to get your workers' comp benefits paid. Most workplace injury cases settle through negotiation. Attorney Sheehan negotiates aggressively for fair settlements. If insurance companies refuse to make reasonable offers, he’s fully prepared to take your case to a hearing at the DIA to get you the compensation you deserve.

Get Your Free Consultation with Attorney John J. Sheehan

Don't let insurance companies take advantage of you. You need an attorney who understands your language, your culture, and your rights.

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