Construction sites are dangerous places, and accidents can happen even when workers are following safety protocols. If you have been injured on a construction site in Riverside, CA, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and lost wages.
Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, but a Riverside personal injury lawyer can help you explore the different legal options available to you after a construction accident.
The JLF Firm in California has years of experience representing injured workers seeking compensation. We can help you too. Contact us today, and let’s discuss your case.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
The Occupational Safety and Health Act expects the construction industry to use the highest standard of guidelines required to ensure safety at the workplace. This can be things such as regular inspection and the use of protective clothing.
However, injuries still happen. It can be a product defect, errors using or operating equipment, or lack of protective gear.
Below are some of the most common causes of construction accidents.
- Falls from height
- Electrocution
- Tripping hazards from wet floors
- Equipment failure
- Failings objects
- Missing guards on power tools
- Unsafe scaffolding and ladders
- Inadequate safety equipment
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
- Compressed gasses
- Improper training
Injuries Sustained on Construction Sites
Construction accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-changing injuries. Some common injuries from construction site accidents include:
- Broken and fractured bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burns
- Electrocution injuries
- Amputations
- Respiratory problems
- Loss of hearing
- Loss of vision
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Paralysis
- Muscle and ligament strains, sprains or tears
- Wrongful death
What to Do After an Accident at a Construction Site
If you’ve been injured on a Riverside construction site, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your rights and ensure that you get the medical attention you need.
Here are some important steps to take:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the accident to your supervisor or employer.
- Collect information about the accident. This includes the names of any witnesses, photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the equipment involved.
- Contact an experienced construction accident lawyer.
Who Can Be Liable for a Construction Site Injury?
Determining liability in a construction accident case needs a thorough investigation. It can be a single person’s negligence or third parties — and sometimes multiple sources. Some examples of third parties who can be held responsible for your injuries include:
- Property owners
- Outside contractors
- Equipment suppliers and manufacturers
- Architects and engineers
- Other workers on the job site
- Government agencies
- Utility companies
How to Prove Liability in a Construction Site Injury
Proving negligence after a construction site accident involves showing the party responsible for the accident had a duty to take reasonable care to prevent harm but failed to do so, resulting in an injury.
To prove negligence in a construction accident case, you need to establish the following elements:
- Duty: The party responsible for the construction site, such as the property owner or contractor, had a legal duty to ensure the safety of workers and visitors on the site.
- Breach: The responsible party failed to meet their duty of care by acting in a way that fell short of what a reasonable person would have done under similar circumstances.
- Causation: The party’s breach of duty was the direct cause of the accident and resulting injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual harm, such as physical injuries, emotional distress, or financial losses, as a result of the accident.
Construction Accident Claims Available in Riverside
If you have sustained injuries as a result of a construction accident, it’s important to file for a compensation claim to help you cover the finances you’ll spend to get back on your feet and the finances you’ll miss out on as a result of not being able to work.
Personal injury
You can file compensation for the pain, suffering, and emotional distress you’re going (have gone) through as a result of the accident. The compensation you get can be used to cover your current and future medical expenses, such as emergency care, surgeries, ongoing treatment, medications, therapy and modification of your house in case a disability occurred.
Lost wages and benefits
If you’ve been forced to be out of work due to the injuries you sustained, you can file a claim to cover your income, owed benefits, and other calculable financial losses you’ve experienced, such as loss of future wages and reduced earning capability.
Contact a Riverside Construction Accident Lawyer for Help
If you’ve been injured on a construction site, our experienced legal team can help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for your right to be compensated.
We’ll investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to build a strong case on your behalf. We’ll negotiate with insurance companies and other parties at our disposal to seek a fair settlement, and we’ll be by your side every step of the way.
Contact our team at The JLF Firm today for a consultation. Our experienced legal team is ready to help!
FAQs About Construction Accidents
Can I file a lawsuit if I was injured on a construction site?
Yes, you may file a lawsuit against a negligent party if you were injured on a construction site. It’s important to consult with an experienced construction accident lawyer to help you with the legal counsel you need to receive a fair settlement.
How much compensation can I receive for my construction site injury?
The amount of compensation you may be entitled to will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding the accident. An experienced construction accident lawyer can help you determine how much your case may be worth.
