Of all the professions in California, construction workers are in a high-risk group for sustaining injuries on the job. If you are a construction worker and suffered an injury on a worksite, you are probably wondering whether you have a legal claim worth pursuing.
In most California construction accidents in the workplace, an injury claim will be limited by workers’ compensation laws. However, a construction accident lawyer from Jacoby and Meyers can evaluate whether an injured worker may be able to seek compensation from a third party, such as a company that provides safety equipment or a manufacturer of defective machinery. When a claim is brought against a third party, certain workers’ compensation limitations may not apply. This can provide injured workers with the opportunity to pursue additional benefits or compensation that may be available under the law.
By working with a Jacoby & Meyers construction accident lawyer, you can receive clear information about your case and your legal options. Our team can also help you understand your medical treatment options and how they may relate to your claim.
Types of Injuries People Get When they Call a Construction Accident Lawyer
At Jacoby & Meyers, you will work with a construction accident lawyer who represents individuals with serious injuries. An attorney can evaluate whether compensation may be available for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages supported by the evidence. Many construction accident claims arise from injuries such as the following:
Falls
Many construction workers perform tasks hundreds of feet above the ground. Owners, general contractors, and sometimes third-party equipment and safety crews (as well as equipment manufacturers) are responsible for maintaining equipment and establishing safety protocols. When guidelines are not properly followed, falls can result in serious injury or wrongful death claims.
Falling Debris and Objects
Workers may suffer injuries when falling objects strike them. Debris, crane loads, swinging crane components, collapsing scaffolding, tools, or other materials can fall from elevated areas and cause harm.
Employee Negligence
Construction companies, contractors, or third parties may hire employees who lack proper training or certifications. When individuals operate heavy machinery, secure safety measures, or perform other critical tasks without adequate preparation, the risk of injury to others may increase.
Defective Equipment
When heavy machinery such as backhoe loaders or skid steers malfunctions, or when tools are defectively designed or manufactured, workers may suffer serious injuries. In some cases, liability may extend beyond the employer to manufacturers or other responsible entities.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Some construction firms use vehicles to transport workers or equipment. If you are injured in a car accident while driving or riding in a company vehicle, you may have the right to pursue compensation depending on the circumstances.
When Should You Call a Construction Accident Lawyer?
The first step is to seek medical attention, especially if your injuries are serious. Once you have been evaluated by a medical professional, you may consider speaking with a California construction accident lawyer.
Avoid signing documents from your employer or an insurance company before understanding your legal rights. A construction accident lawyer can review reports, gather facts, and explain potential legal options. Taking advantage of a free consultation with our Jacoby and Meyers lawyers can help you better understand your situation.
Los Angeles Construction Accident News
Construction Accidents and OSHA violations
Construction activity continues throughout California, particularly in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. When accidents occur, injuries can range from minor to severe and long-term.
When an employee or construction worker is injured on site, either through the negligence of the employer or through some oversight, the construction worker may pursue a legal claim for negligence.
In some cases, violations of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards may contribute to unsafe conditions. Under certain circumstances, safety violations may support a negligence claim. To better understand how these issues may affect your case, you can contact our legal team at Jacoby & Meyers. Our attorneys review the facts of each case and pursue available legal remedies based on applicable law.
Understanding Your Rights After A Construction Accident
Construction projects are ongoing across the country, including in California. As a result, both workers and passersby may be exposed to potential hazards.
For example, areas such as Beverly Hills continue to experience new development and construction. If you or a loved one was injured in a construction accident due to someone’s negligence, Los Angeles personal injury attorneys from Jacoby & Meyers can review your case and explain your legal options.
When Can I File a Lawsuit for A Construction Accident?
Whether you are a construction worker or a passerby, you may be able to file a lawsuit if you suffered an injury due to dangerous conditions. Legal claims may be brought against responsible parties depending on the circumstances, including property owners, contractors, or third parties.
A lawsuit may seek compensation for injuries and related losses. Speaking with an attorney soon after an accident can help preserve evidence and clarify your options. The sooner you contact a personal injury attorney, the sooner you can receive guidance regarding medical treatment and potential claims against responsible parties.
Contact our construction accident attorneys to discuss your case and determine possible next steps
How Can a California Construction Accident Lawyer Help You Get Compensation?
After being injured on a worksite, you may wish to speak with a Jacoby & Meyers construction accident lawyer once your injuries have been assessed by a doctor. An attorney can evaluate whether compensation may be available for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages supported by the evidence.
Delays can sometimes make it more difficult to gather evidence and establish liability. Before accepting any settlement offers from your employer or insurance company, consider consulting with an attorney who can review the offer and explain whether it addresses your documented losses.
Jacoby & Meyers has decades of experience handling construction accident claims. Our legal team reviews each case individually and works to pursue compensation supported by the facts and applicable law.
Frequently Asked Questions about Construction Accidents
Do Many People Die From Construction Accidents?
Falls account for 1/3 of construction accident fatalities. In addition, many individuals who survive construction accidents may experience serious or long-term injuries, including neurological damage or fractures and broken bones.
What Should I Do After a Construction Accident?
You should receive a full medical evaluation to identify any injuries you may have sustained. Afterward, you may consider contacting a lawyer to discuss your legal options. An attorney can present your claim to the employer or insurance company and seek compensation supported by the evidence.
How Can a Construction Accident Injury Affect My Life?
Construction accident injuries may be temporary or permanent. Injured individuals may lose time from work and income, while also facing medical expenses. In severe cases, a person may be unable to return to construction work or other employment.
Does My Employer Have Insurance?
California law generally requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. However, compliance may vary. An attorney can review your situation and determine how insurance coverage may apply to your claim.
The lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers have experience handling construction accident cases. Our role is to represent your interests and pursue compensation available under the law based on the specific facts of your case.
Michael Akiva is Managing Partner of Pre-Litigation of Jacoby & Meyers. Having started his career as an attorney at Latham & Watkins LLP, a prestigious, global corporate law firm, Michael quickly realized that representing big corporations was not for him. After leaving the firm, Michael dedicated himself to fighting for the rights of the injured. Education J.D. UCLA School of Law, Editor, UCLA Law Review B.S., Finance, University of Southern California, Magna cum laude