Northern California Construction Injury Lawyers
Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Northern California Construction Accidents
Q. How many construction workers get injured on the job every year?
A. Construction work is a dangerous occupation. With thousands of potential hazards around the construction site, such as heavy machinery, power tools and toxic chemicals, the risk of injury for a worker is very high. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that in 2008, more than 34,000 California construction workers suffered an on the job injury, and more than 120 workers died as a result of a construction accident.
Q. What are the types of injuries that a construction worker can suffer from?
A. In 2008, California construction worker injuries resulted in more than 14,000 days missed away from the job, according to the BLS. Depending on the trade and the job being performed, a construction worker can suffer from head injuries, severed nerves, coma, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, severe gashes, burn injuries, limb loss, infection, dislocation, broken bone injuries, hearing loss, and cumulative trauma disorder. Many of these injuries are preventable if the proper precautions and safety measures are taken.
Q. Who makes sure construction sites are safe?
A. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets and enforces safety standards at a construction site, and also provides training and education for the prevention of occupational injuries, illnesses and deaths.
Q. Do I have a case if I suffered an injury on a construction site?
A. You may be able to file a personal injury claim, if you can prove:
- The contractor, subcontractor or property owner was responsible for maintaining a safe construction site.
- Your injury was caused as a direct result of the contractor, subcontractor or property owners’ failure to ensure a safe working environment.
- Your injury was caused by a third party – either a company or a person is responsible for the accident resulting in injury. This could be the manufacturer of the equipment, a property owner, or anyone determined to be responsible for the accident.
A northern California construction accident attorney at Estey Bomberger can establish if you have a case and advise you of the best legal course to take.
Q. Can I get compensated for my injuries?
A. Filing a personal injury claim allows you to pursue damages from the negligent or careless parties that are responsible for your injuries. The amount of damages recovered varies for each case and depends on several factors, including the severity of your injury and the expenses related to your injury. Compensation may be obtained for your medical expenses, lost wages (due to missed time from work), and pain and suffering. If an injury results in death, family members may be entitled to compensation in a wrongful death claim.
Q. I have been seeing a counselor since my construction accident, but is the cost included in my claim?
A. Construction accidents can cause both physical and emotional injuries. Many construction workers develop posttraumatic stress disorder after experiencing a traumatic event, such as a construction accident, and require counseling to help them through difficult times. Along with your medical care expenses, you may also be compensated for emotional and mental health counseling.
Q. Is there a fee to talk to a construction accident lawyer?
A. At the Estey Bomberger law firm, there are no fees to talk to a lawyer. Our northern California construction accident lawyers are always available to discuss your case for free. One of our northern California personal injury attorneys can discuss the details of your case, advise you of your legal rights and inform you how we can help recover full and fair compensation for your construction accident injuries. Do not hesitate to call. You may only be one step away from obtaining legal help. Contact us anytime at (800) 890-6722.