Construction accidents are a common occurrence in Los Angeles and are often the cause of serious injuries to many workers in the region, many of which can have life-threatening consequences. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that about 150,000 construction site accidents occur each year across the United States, while The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that about 1 in 10 workers suffers a construction site work injury annually. There is no doubt that Los Angeles construction workers are constantly at risk of injury. That’s why, if you’re a construction worker based in this area of California, you should learn everything there is to know about these types of incidents and be prepared to take action if you experience one.
After a construction accident, you’ll have to deal with an array of problems. First of all, you’ll have to deal with your recovery, but you’ll also have to pay for medical expenses. Fortunately, you don’t have to bear these expenses on your own; you can use workers’ compensation benefits to cover your medical bills, your lost wages, and your rehabilitation costs. However, obtaining these benefits is often more difficult than it seems.
According to many experienced workers compensation attorneys in Los Angeles like C&B Law Group, the best way to secure these benefits is to negotiate aggressively and use all available legal resources to maximize your chances of success. To do this, you should work with an effective workers’ compensation attorney who is always available to you. Many LA law firms offer free consultations, so don’t hesitate to contact them to find the right attorney for your case.
Common causes of construction accidents in Los Angeles
Some of the leading causes of construction accidents in Los Angeles are the following:
- Falls: This is the most common type of construction accident in California. According to OSHA, about 38% of construction site fatalities stem from this type of incident. Falls from great heights, roofs, scaffolding, ladders, and even simple slips and falls can be extremely dangerous.
- Struck by objects: Construction workers are constantly at risk of being struck by tools, falling debris, or other construction materials.
- Caught in between objects: This type of construction accident occurs when a worker is trapped inside a heavy object, or between two similar objects, such as vehicles, equipment, or large debris.
- Electrocutions: OSHA estimates that about 8% of construction worker fatalities are due to electrocutions. Construction sites often have many wires lying on the ground, increasing the risk of this type of incident.
- Collapses: On construction sites where trenches must be dug, collapses are a common occurrence that can result in a worker becoming trapped and suffering serious injuries.
- Power tool accidents: Saws, nail guns, grinders, and other power tools often cause injuries to workers when not used properly.
- Toxic chemical exposure: At some construction sites, workers may be exposed to harmful chemicals that can cause serious illness.
Common construction accident injuries
Some of the most severe injuries a Los Angeles construction worker can suffer include the following:
- Spinal Cord injuries: If you injure your back, chances are that some key nerves in your spine could be exposed. This type of injury often causes you to become paraplegic or even quadriplegic, preventing you from going about your life normally.
- TBI: Traumatic brain injuries can be caused by various types of accidents, and can seriously affect a worker’s cognitive ability in more serious cases.
- Fractures: Various types of construction site accidents can result in fractures to different parts of the body.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries: Construction site workers are exposed to repetitive motion or overexertion injuries if they lack the necessary physical conditioning when performing a specific job.
- Other injuries that can occur on a construction site include superficial injuries to the back, neck or knee; torn muscles or ligaments, heart attacks, strokes, among others.
Types of Construction Accident claims
If you suffered a construction accident in Los Angeles, these are the types of claims you may be able to pursue:
- Workers’ Comp: For many, this will be the most preferable option. After a workplace accident, you can file a workers’ compensation claim to receive money for your medical bills and lost wages. Since this is a No-Fault System, you will be able to receive money even if the accident was your fault. Working with an attorney can help you maximize the value of your claim.
- Personal Injury: On a case-by-case basis, you are free to waive your rights to workers’ compensation and pursue a personal injury claim against your employer instead. You may receive more money, but you will have to prove the other party’s liability to do so.
- If a third party was responsible for your injuries, such as a manufacturer, seller, or distributor, you may be able to seek compensation from them without foregoing workers’ compensation.
- Wrongful death: If a worker dies on the job as a result of an injury, his or her family may seek wrongful death benefits from their employer.
What should you do after a construction accident?
If you suffered a construction accident injury, here’s what you should do:
- See a doctor: Your health is the MOST IMPORTANT thing. After an injury, no matter how mild or severe, you should see a doctor immediately to have your condition diagnosed.
- Report your injury: As soon as you can, you should properly notify your employer of the incident to proceed with your workers’ compensation claim.
- Gather evidence: If possible, try to take photos of the accident scene and obtain contact information for witnesses in case it is necessary.
- Contact an attorney: Working with an attorney will help you learn about your legal options and maximize the value of your claim. Los Angeles is home to numerous workers’ compensation law firms with many years of experience, who are ready to help you every step of the way. Call them for a free consultation and find the best attorney for your case.
