You can sue for unsafe working conditions in Connecticut, but only in some cases. Most of the time, you should first report the issue to your boss or a government agency like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
If that doesn’t fix the problem, or you were seriously harmed because of your employer’s actions (or inactions), you may be able to file a lawsuit. Dangerous workplaces are a serious problem, and your health, job, or safety should never be at risk.
Our Hartford OSHA workplace health and safety claims lawyer will explain whether a lawsuit is an option, what steps you must take, and how to move forward if your employer failed to keep you safe.
When Unsafe Working Conditions Become a Legal Issue
Not all uncomfortable or risky work environments are considered illegal. However, Connecticut law—as well as federal laws—sets basic safety standards for workplaces. If an employer breaks those standards and puts someone in danger or causes harm, they may be violating the law.
- Unsafe working conditions can include:
- Broken safety tools or missing warning signs
- Harmful chemicals without the right safety gear
- No breaks during hot weather for people doing physical work
- Poor air quality or mold
- Electrical problems or blocked exits
- Making people work in areas that are unfinished or unsafe
In many cases, these violations are first addressed by filing a complaint with OSHA or the Connecticut Department of Labor. However, if a serious injury happens, or if the employer ignores warnings and refuses to fix the problem, legal action may be the next step.
For a free legal consultation, call (860) 999-9394
What Are Your Rights as a Worker in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, you have the right to a safe workplace. You also have the right to:
- Speak up about unsafe conditions without being punished.
- Ask for a safety check by OSHA.
- Get safety training in a language you understand.
- Be treated fairly if you report danger at work.
If your employer fires you, demotes you, threatens you, or treats you unfairly after you report a safety concern, that may be retaliation. In those cases, you may have a separate legal claim in addition to any claim about the unsafe conditions themselves.
Our Hartford workplace retaliation lawyer can explain your rights, review what happened, and help you take the right steps to protect yourself.
In these situations, a third-party personal injury or employment lawsuit may allow you to seek damages that go beyond what workers’ compensation provides, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.
How Our Connecticut Employment Lawyer Can Help You
If you were hurt or put in danger at work, a lawyer can help you take action and seek justice on your behalf.
Our Connecticut labor and employment lawyer will:
- Look at the facts and tell you if filing a lawsuit or complaint is a good idea.
- Collect proof, like photos, witness stories, and medical records.
- File your lawsuit, and speak for you in court or during talks.
- Stand up for you if your employer treats you unfairly.
- Ask for payment that covers your medical bills, lost pay, and stress.
Whether you are still at the job or have already left, a lawyer can take the pressure off your shoulders and help you understand how to hold your employer accountable.
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When You May Be Able to Sue Your Employer in Connecticut
Connecticut’s workers’ compensation system covers most workplace injuries and usually prevents employees from suing their employers directly. However, there are some exceptions.
You may be able to file a lawsuit if:
- Your employer created unsafe conditions on purpose that led to your injury.
- You were punished for reporting those unsafe conditions.
- Someone else, like a contractor or equipment company, caused the danger.
If any of these situations apply to you, contact a lawyer soon. We will explain your legal options and build your case.
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What Kinds of Damages Could You Recover?
If the outcome is in your favor, you may be able to recover several types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses for treatment related to your injury or illness
- Lost income if you missed work
- Future pay if you can’t go back to your job
- Pain and suffering if you experienced serious physical or emotional harm
- Punitive damages in cases of gross misconduct or willful danger
In retaliation cases, you might also be able to get your job back and receive back pay or attorney’s fees.
Time Limits to File an Injury Claim in Connecticut
In Connecticut, the time you have to file a lawsuit depends on the type of claim:
- For injury lawsuits, the time limit is usually two years from the date of injury under Connecticut General Statutes § 52-584.
- For retaliation claims, you generally have 180 days to file a complaint with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO).
These deadlines can be hard to understand, so you can talk to our lawyer as soon as possible about who will make sure you are treated fairly.
What to Do If You Are Facing Unsafe Conditions at Work
If you think your workplace is unsafe, it’s important to protect yourself and follow the right steps. Here’s what you should do:
- Tell your employer or supervisor about the problem right away in writing. Keep a copy of your complaint.
- Keep track of everything—take photos, save emails, and write down the dates and details of what happened.
- File a complaint with OSHA or the Connecticut Department of Labor if your employer does not fix the issue.
- Get medical help right away if you are injured.
- Talk to an attorney before you take legal action, especially if you are being harassed, punished, or fired for reporting safety concerns.
Our lawyer will guide you through the process without putting your job or health at further risk.
Facing Unsafe Working Conditions in Connecticut? Talk to Us
At Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard, we help workers across Connecticut who are facing dangerous workplaces or employer retaliation. We handle unsafe working condition lawsuits with care, clarity, and results.
Our firm focuses on labor and employment law—something most firms don’t offer—and we believe strongly in holding corporations accountable when they put people at risk. We don’t use gimmicks. Instead, we focus on facts and justice.
If you’re dealing with an unsafe workplace and don’t know where to turn, we’re here to help. You don’t pay our lawyers unless we recover your damages. You deserve to work in a safe environment, and we’re ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form