Construction Accidents in Los Angeles: Protecting Workers’ Rights

Construction Accidents in Los Angeles: Protecting Workers’ Rights

Construction work is one of the most hazardous occupations in Los Angeles, with workers facing risks of falls, machinery accidents, and exposure to dangerous substances. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, knowing your legal rights is essential to seeking compensation and protecting your future.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

• Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops: Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry. Lack of proper safety harnesses, unstable surfaces, and failure to follow safety regulations often contribute to these incidents.
• Electrocution from exposed wiring or faulty equipment: Construction sites are full of electrical hazards. Improperly grounded tools, exposed wires, and contact with power lines can lead to severe burns, shocks, or fatalities.
• Machinery malfunctions and equipment failures: Heavy machinery like cranes, bulldozers, and forklifts can cause catastrophic injuries if they malfunction due to improper maintenance or operator error.
• Falling objects causing head and spinal injuries: Workers are at risk of being struck by falling tools, debris, or materials from upper levels of a site, leading to severe head trauma or spinal cord damage.
• Exposure to toxic chemicals or hazardous materials: Construction workers frequently handle harmful substances like asbestos, lead, and silica, which can cause chronic illnesses and long-term respiratory conditions.
• Trench collapses leading to suffocation or severe injuries: Workers in excavation sites face the danger of trench collapses, which can trap or crush them under heavy debris.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation and Third-Party Liability

Injured construction workers are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which cover medical expenses and lost wages. However, these benefits may not fully compensate for long-term suffering, permanent disability, or emotional distress.

In cases where negligence from a third party—such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or negligent property owner—contributed to the accident, an injured worker may file a personal injury lawsuit. These lawsuits can help recover additional damages such as pain and suffering, future medical costs, and punitive damages.

Steps to Take After a Construction Accident

1. Seek medical attention: Immediate treatment is crucial for both health and legal claims. Keep all medical records, as they will serve as evidence in your case.
2. Report the accident: Inform your employer or site manager and document the incident in an official report. Failing to report the injury promptly could impact your ability to receive compensation.
3. Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, any hazardous conditions, defective equipment, and your injuries. Obtain witness statements from coworkers or bystanders.
4. Consult an attorney: A lawyer can evaluate whether you qualify for workers’ compensation or a third-party claim and guide you through the legal process to maximize your compensation.

How ANTN LAW Can Help

ANTN LAW, led by attorney Arpine Navasardyan, specializes in construction accident claims, ensuring injured workers receive the maximum compensation they deserve. Our firm fights for fair treatment and compensation for workers who have suffered due to unsafe working conditions. If you or a loved one has suffered a construction-related injury, schedule a free consultation today. You can also visit our office in Burbank: ANTN LAW Office.

FAQ

What benefits can I receive through workers’ compensation?

Workers’ compensation covers medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and disability benefits if the injury prevents you from returning to work. However, it does not compensate for pain and suffering, which may be recoverable through a third-party claim.

Can I sue my employer for a construction site injury?

In most cases, workers’ compensation is the exclusive remedy against an employer. However, if gross negligence, intentional harm, or a violation of safety regulations contributed to the injury, additional legal action may be possible.

What if a third party caused my injury?

If a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another negligent party was responsible for your accident, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to receiving workers’ compensation benefits. A third-party claim can provide additional compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future lost wages.

What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. A construction accident attorney can review your case, gather necessary evidence, and represent you in hearings to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

How long do I have to file a construction accident lawsuit?

In California, injured workers generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, deadlines for workers’ compensation claims may be shorter. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible ensures you do not miss critical filing deadlines.

Where can I get legal help for a construction accident?

Contact ANTN LAW for expert legal representation and a free consultation. You can also visit our office in Burbank: ANTN LAW Office.