California Construction Accidents Attorney
Your Trusted Advocates for Construction Accident Recovery
If you’ve been hurt in a construction accident, our dedicated California construction accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. We understand the physical pain, financial strain, and emotional toll these injuries can cause, and we’re committed to holding negligent parties — whether contractors, site owners, or equipment manufacturers — accountable.
Contact us today for a free consultation to explore your rights.
Why Construction Accidents Happen in California
California’s booming construction industry, from high-rise developments in Los Angeles to infrastructure projects in the Bay Area, employs over 900,000 workers, according to 2024 data. However, this growth comes with risks. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that construction accidents account for nearly 20% of workplace fatalities nationwide. Common causes of construction accidents in California include:
Falls from Heights
Scaffolding collapses, unsecured ladders, or missing guardrails often lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Equipment Malfunctions
Defective machinery, cranes, or power tools can cause crushing injuries or electrocutions.
Falling Objects
Tools, materials, or debris falling from elevated areas can strike workers or bystanders.
Trench Collapses
Improperly secured trenches or excavations can trap workers, causing suffocation or crushing injuries.
Electrical Hazards
Exposed wiring or improper grounding can result in shocks or burns.
Lack of Safety Protocols
Failure to enforce safety training, provide protective gear, or follow OSHA regulations increases risks.
Our attorneys investigate every aspect of your accident, from site conditions to employer practices, to identify all liable parties and build a robust case.
California Laws Governing Construction Accidents
Construction accident claims in California are governed by a combination of state labor laws, personal injury statutes, and federal OSHA regulations. Key legal frameworks include:
California Labor Code Section 6400 et seq.
Employers must provide a safe workplace, including proper equipment, training, and hazard mitigation. Violations can lead to liability for injuries.
California Civil Code Section 1714
Establishes a general duty of care, holding property owners, contractors, and subcontractors responsible for maintaining safe construction sites.
OSHA Regulations (29 CFR Part 1926)
Federal standards mandate safety measures like fall protection, equipment maintenance, and worker training. Non-compliance strengthens injury claims.
Workers’ Compensation (California Labor Code Section 3600 et seq.)
Injured workers are entitled to benefits like medical care and wage replacement, regardless of fault. However, workers’ comp may limit lawsuits against employers unless gross negligence is proven.
Third-Party Liability
If a third party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or site owner, contributed to the accident, you may pursue a personal injury claim outside of workers’ comp for additional damages.
Critical Note: California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your compensation is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you’re 30% at fault, you can still recover 70% of your damages.
Types of Compensation Available
Construction accidents can result in life-altering injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage. Our attorneys fight to secure compensation for:
Medical Expenses
Hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
Lost Wages
Income lost during recovery or due to permanent disability affecting your ability to work.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
Loss of Earning Capacity
Damages for diminished future earning potential due to long-term injuries.
Wrongful Death
If a loved one was killed, compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support.
Punitive Damages
In cases of egregious negligence, such as knowingly ignoring safety violations, to punish responsible parties.
We work with medical experts, economists, and vocational specialists to calculate the full extent of your losses and maximize your recovery.
Challenges in Construction Accident Cases
Construction accident claims often face unique hurdles, including:
Multiple Liable Parties
Construction sites involve contractors, subcontractors, equipment suppliers, and site owners, making it complex to pinpoint responsibility.
Workers’ Comp Limitations
While workers’ compensation provides benefits, it may bar lawsuits against employers unless intentional misconduct or gross negligence is proven.
Disputed Fault
Defendants may argue you failed to follow safety protocols or assumed the risk of injury as part of your job.
Evidence Preservation
Construction sites change rapidly, and critical evidence like equipment or site conditions may be altered or removed.
Time is of the essence in construction accident cases. Under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1, you have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the injury isn’t immediately discovered, the discovery rule may allow one year from the date of discovery. For claims against government entities, such as accidents on public construction projects, you must file a claim within six months under the California Government Claims Act (Government Code Section 911.2).
Workers’ compensation claims have stricter deadlines, often requiring notification to your employer within 30 days of the injury (California Labor Code Section 5400). Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation, so contact our team promptly.
Pro Tip: Report your injury to your employer and seek medical attention immediately to document the incident and protect your claim.
Ask a Question,
Describe Your Situation, Request a Free Consultation
"*" indicates required fields
We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your question or to schedule an appointment if requested.
Vehicle-Related Accidents
Premises & Liability Cases
Serious & Catastrophic Injuries
Steps to Take After a Construction Accident
Seek Medical Care
Get immediate treatment to address injuries and create a medical record linking them to the accident.
Report the Incident
Notify your employer or site supervisor and ensure the accident is documented in an incident report.
Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident site, equipment, and any visible hazards, if safe to do so.
Collect Witness Information
Gather contact details and statements from coworkers or bystanders who saw the incident.
Preserve Evidence
Keep any damaged personal protective equipment, tools, or clothing involved in the accident.
Consult an Attorney
Contact a construction accidents attorney to evaluate your options for workers’ comp and third-party claims.
Why Choose Our California Construction Accidents Attorneys?
Our law firm is uniquely equipped to handle construction accident cases, offering:
Industry Knowledge
We understand construction site operations, OSHA regulations, and California labor laws, enabling us to identify violations and liable parties.
Thorough Investigations
We gather critical evidence, including site photos, equipment records, and expert analyses, to build a compelling case.
Aggressive Representation
We negotiate with insurance companies and third parties to secure fair settlements and are prepared to litigate for maximum compensation.
Compassionate Support
We prioritize your well-being, providing clear communication and personalized guidance throughout the process.
No Upfront Fees
Our contingency fee structure means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Contact Our California Construction Accidents Attorneys Today
A construction accident can leave you facing medical bills, lost income, and an uncertain future. Our experienced California attorneys are here to fight for your rights, whether through workers’ compensation or a third-party personal injury claim. We’re dedicated to securing the compensation you need to cover medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Call us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.