We are living during a construction boom when it seems as though there are construction projects everywhere you look. It is true that they provide a big economic support system to California but it is also true that construction accidents are much too common. Keep reading to learn what your legal options are if you are injured in a construction accident. Then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
There Are Many Potential Causes of Construction Accidents
There are a wide range of reasons that construction accidents might happen. Workers are climbing up high and relying on the integrity of ladders and roofs. Falling injuries are common. It is also common for a person to be struck by something falling from above on a construction site. Electrical wiring can be left exposing wires and bad connections that increase the chance for electrocution and burn injuries. Equipment workers can be injured by malfunctions in the equipment they are working with. These are just some examples – there are many ways a person can be injured on a construction site.
Determining Fault Can Be Tricky
The truth of the matter is that determining who is at fault in a construction accident can be difficult because there are many parties involved at the site. This can include prime contractors, subcontractors, property managers, property owners, and construction site managers. Every person who is employed on a construction site has a responsibility to maintain a safe working environment. All employers, managers, and property owners must also adhere to California’s OSHA standards.
If one of these parties is in breach of that duty, and an accident occurs, then they can be held liable for those injuries. If more than one person or company was in breach of their duty then several people can be found at fault.
It is Unlikely You Will Sue Your Employer
It is common for a construction worker to assume that they are going to sue their employer directly but this is rarely the case. Instead, they will generally file a workers’ compensation claim. This offers benefits for medical costs and workers get a portion of their weekly wages while they are unable to work. The good news about workers’ compensation claims is that you do not have to prove that any particular person was at fault. In fact, the accident could have been your fault.
The bad news about workers’ compensation claims is that you are limited in what you can recover. For example, you are only eligible for a portion of your wages per week and you cannot sue for pain and suffering. In those cases, when a person is clearly at fault, you may file a personal injury lawsuit. This can be a tricky situation and we strongly suggest working with a personal injury attorney to find the right option. You can contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 today for a free legal consultation.
