If a recent construction accident in Bakersfield left you with painful injuries and questions about your legal rights, the attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers are available to discuss your situation.
Our Bakersfield construction accident lawyers have experience handling construction accident cases. With more than $2 billion recovered for clients in past matters, our team represents individuals dealing with injuries and workplace accidents. (Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.)
Our office in Bakersfield is located at 2020 Eye St., Bakersfield, CA 93301. Contact our personal injury lawyers in Bakersfield for a free case consultation to learn more about your legal options.
Construction Accidents in Bakersfield: Understanding the Risks
Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest number of worker deaths in California in 2023occurred in the construction industry (78 fatalities).
The conditions of a typical construction site in Bakersfield expose workers to many injury and incident risks, including:
- Slip, trip, and fall accidents
- Spinal cord injuries
- Brain injuries
- Falls from heights
- Accidents involving scaffolds
- Ladder falls
- Electrocutions
- Struck-by objects
- Equipment-related accidents
- Contact with dangerous machinery
- Forklift accidents
- Crane collapses
- Roof, wall, and trench collapses
- Exposure to toxic materials or substances
- Violence by people or animals
Bakersfield has a relatively large construction industry, with around 13,500 construction workers currently employed. Safety issues such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) violations in Kern County can present additional risks to construction workers.
California Laws Governing Construction Accidents
Understanding your rights after a construction site accident in Bakersfield may require familiarity with California laws related to workplace injuries. As an injured worker, you may have several potential legal options.
Your recovery options can include:
- Workers’ compensation claim: An insurance claim that may cover medical costs, certain disability benefits, and a portion of lost wages without requiring proof of fault.
- Personal injury lawsuit: In some circumstances, a claim may be brought against a party whose negligence contributed to the accident.
- Third-party liability claim: If someone other than your employer contributed to the accident, it may be possible to file both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury claim against a third party, such as a property owner or equipment manufacturer.
It is also important to be aware of legal deadlines. In many cases, individuals have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim, while workers’ compensation claims often must be filed within one year.
Determining Liability in Construction Accident Cases
While a workers’ compensation claim may appear to be the most direct option after a construction accident in Bakersfield, it may not always address every potential claim. Speaking with an attorney before accepting a settlement may help you understand your available options.
Depending on the circumstances, parties who may potentially share responsibility include:
- Construction company
- General contractor
- Subcontractor
- Equipment manufacturer
- Property owner
- Architect or engineer
- A government agency
Determining liability may require an investigation into the circumstances of the construction site accident and the roles of various parties involved.
Compensation Available for Construction Accident Victims
A construction-related accident in Bakersfield may lead to financial losses that can affect both workers and their families.
The types of compensation that may be available vary depending on the legal claim involved and the specific facts of the case. Potential damages may include:
- Medical expenses (immediate and long-term)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering damages
- Permanent disability compensation
- Wrongful death benefits for families in fatal cases
Whether a person files a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury lawsuit can affect the categories of compensation that may be available.
Why You Need a Specialized Bakersfield Construction Accident Attorney
A construction accident case in Bakersfield can involve multiple parties, complex regulations, and technical issues related to construction safety. An attorney who handles construction accident cases may assist by reviewing the circumstances of the incident, explaining potential legal options, and helping prepare and present a claim.
Legal representation may involve gathering evidence, reviewing construction safety regulations, evaluating insurance coverage, and assisting with negotiations or litigation when necessary.
The Legal Process for Bakersfield Construction Accident Claims
When a worker gets hurt or killed at a construction site, the legal process for providing the victim or victim’s family with compensation often starts with an investigation.
At any point, a personal injury lawyer can be hired to complete a case evaluation, investigation and comprehensive evidence collection. A lawyer may also hire experts to provide witness testimony and support the case.
Once the cause of the incident has been determined, the lawyer can file the necessary paperwork to initiate one or multiple claims on the client’s behalf.
The lawyer may handle negotiations with insurers in an effort to reach a fair resolution for accident-related losses. If necessary, the lawyer can also take the construction accident case to court.
Choosing the Right Bakersfield Construction Accident Attorney
Not all construction accident attorneys are equal. It’s important to take your time during the selection process to choose the attorney who is the best fit for your needs.
Ask the following questions to identify a lawyer who has the experience and resources to handle your claim:
- How much experience do you have with construction accident cases in Bakersfield?
- What are some of your past case results in this practice area?
- Do you have experience in local Kern County courts?
- Are there any client testimonials I can read?
- How much do you charge for your services, and when do I pay?
Look for a lawyer with hands-on experience in construction accident law in Bakersfield who is equipped to advocate for you.
Contact Jacoby & Meyers for a Free Construction Accident Case Review in Bakersfield
Getting injured while working a construction job in Bakersfield can create uncertainty about your future. The lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers represent individuals who have been injured in construction accidents.
Our team can help review your situation and explain the legal options that may be available. We believe it is important for injured workers and their families to understand their rights under the law.
Discuss your case in detail with one of our Bakersfield construction accident lawyers today. Call our local law office at (661) 402-8934 or contact us online anytime, and we will respond as soon as possible.
Jacoby & Meyers Accident & Injury Lawyers – Bakersfield
Office
2020 Eye St,
Bakersfield, CA 93301