San Diego
Construction Accident Attorney

One of the most shocking facts about construction accidents in San Diego is that even when workers follow safety rules, they can still get seriously injured or killed. Falls are the leading cause of death, and many happen despite workers using proper safety equipment. Faulty machinery, unsafe conditions, and employer negligence put even the most careful workers at risk. When companies cut corners to save time and money, workers pay the price. At Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC, we fight for injured construction workers and their families. Below, we explain your legal options, the compensation available, and how a San Diego Construction Accident Attorney can fight for justice.

What are the major types of San Diego construction accidents?

Construction accidents in San Diego happen in many ways, but some are more common than others.

• Falls from heights are the number one cause of serious injury and death. This includes falling off scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or other elevated work areas.
• Electrocution is another major hazard, especially when workers come into contact with exposed power lines or faulty wiring.
• Workers are also at risk of being struck by falling objects, like tools, materials, or debris.
• Heavy machinery accidents, such as getting caught in a crane or forklift, can lead to life-threatening injuries.
• Trench collapses are especially dangerous and can bury workers alive if proper safety measures aren’t in place.
• Toxic exposure is another serious concern, with construction workers frequently exposed to dangerous substances like asbestos, lead, and chemical fumes.

All these accidents can cause life-altering injuries, and in many cases, they are entirely preventable.

How does a San Diego construction accident affect your life differently than other accidents?

A construction accident can completely change your life in ways that other types of injuries don’t. Many construction injuries are severe, leading to long-term disabilities that make it impossible to return to work. If you suffer a spinal cord injury, amputation, or traumatic brain injury, your ability to earn a living may be permanently affected. Even less severe injuries can mean months of medical treatment, physical therapy, and lost wages.

Construction work is physically demanding, and most jobs require full mobility. Unlike an office job where you might be able to return with a desk modification, construction injuries often mean you have to find an entirely new career, which isn’t always possible. The financial strain on you and your family can be overwhelming. On top of that, the emotional toll of losing your livelihood and dealing with chronic pain can lead to depression and anxiety. Many injured workers also struggle to get the medical care they need because insurance companies try to minimize payouts. The long-term consequences of a construction accident go far beyond the injury itself.

Who is liable for a San Diego construction accident?

Your employer is typically responsible for ensuring a safe work environment, but in most cases, you cannot sue your employer directly because of California’s workers’ compensation laws. However, other parties may be liable, including property owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and equipment manufacturers.

If a property owner knew about unsafe conditions on a construction site and failed to fix them, they might be responsible under California premises liability laws. General contractors and subcontractors must follow California Labor Code Section 6300, which requires them to maintain a safe worksite. If they fail to do so, they could be held liable for your injuries. Equipment manufacturers can also be responsible if a defective tool or machine caused your accident.

Construction sites are subject to strict safety regulations under Cal/OSHA and federal OSHA standards. If an employer or contractor violates these rules, they can face serious penalties. However, proving liability can be complicated, which is why it’s important to have a construction accident attorney investigate your case.

Where do most San Diego construction accidents happen?

High-rise construction sites, particularly in downtown San Diego, pose a major risk for falls and scaffolding accidents. Roadwork zones on highways like I-5, I-805, and SR-163 are also high-risk areas where workers are vulnerable to vehicle collisions and equipment failures.

Residential and commercial construction sites throughout San Diego County, including areas like Chula Vista, La Jolla, and Escondido, frequently see injuries because of falls, electrocution, and heavy machinery accidents. Industrial and warehouse job sites also have a high number of construction-related injuries, especially when workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals or unsafe working conditions.

Why should you file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit for a construction injury?

Filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit after a construction accident can help you get the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Workers’ compensation benefits are available in most cases, but they may not fully cover all your expenses. California’s workers’ compensation system only provides limited wage replacement and medical coverage, but it does not include pain and suffering damages.

If a third party, such as a contractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer, was responsible for your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. Under California law, you can seek damages for medical expenses, future lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other losses. Insurance companies may try to offer you a low settlement, but a lawsuit can potentially ensure you get the full amount you deserve. You should not have to suffer financially because of someone else’s negligence.

What compensation can you get after a San Diego construction accident?

If you are injured in a San Diego construction accident, you may be entitled to different types of compensation depending on the circumstances. Workers’ compensation benefits in California cover medical expenses and partial wage replacement. If a third party caused your injury, you can file a personal injury lawsuit.

In a lawsuit, you may be able to receive damages for all medical costs, including hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications. Lost wages and reduced future earning potential are also considered in a lawsuit. If your injury leads to a permanent disability, you can seek long-term compensation. Pain and suffering damages are available in personal injury cases, covering the physical and emotional impact of your injury. If a construction company, contractor, or equipment manufacturer acted recklessly or intentionally, you may also be entitled to punitive damages under California law.

Why should your family file a wrongful death lawsuit if the victim dies?

If your loved one dies in a construction accident, a wrongful death lawsuit can help your family recover financial compensation for your loss. Construction sites are one of the most dangerous workplaces, and fatal accidents happen too often. California’s wrongful death laws allow spouses, children, and other close family members to file a claim if someone else’s negligence caused the death.

A wrongful death lawsuit can provide compensation for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, and the emotional loss of a loved one. In many cases, employers and contractors fail to follow safety regulations, putting workers at unnecessary risk. While money can’t replace a loved one, a wrongful death claim can help provide financial stability and ensure that those responsible are held legally accountable.

What immediate steps should you take after a San Diego construction accident?

If you are injured in a construction accident, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and legal rights. First, get medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. A medical record also serves as important evidence for your claim.

Under California workers’ compensation laws, you must notify your employer within 30 days to be eligible for benefits. Take photos of your injuries and the accident scene. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information.

Do not accept a settlement or sign any paperwork from an insurance company without talking to an attorney. Insurance adjusters may try to offer you a low amount that does not cover all your damages. A construction accident attorney can review your case and help you understand your options for seeking compensation.

How can a San Diego construction accident attorney help you?

A San Diego personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve by handling the legal process while you focus on recovery. After an accident, insurance companies and employers may try to minimize their liability and offer you less than what you need. An experienced attorney knows how to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Your lawyer can help you file a workers’ compensation claim or pursue a personal injury lawsuit if a third party was responsible for your injuries. They can also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. If your case needs to go to trial, an attorney can represent you in court and fight for your rights. California law is complex when it comes to construction accidents, and having a lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Contact San Diego Construction Accident Attorney Samer Habbas

If you were injured in a construction accident, you don’t have time to deal with insurance companies that try to minimize your pain or employers who refuse to take responsibility. You want a San Diego personal injury lawyer who knows how to fight for you. At Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC, our experienced San Diego construction accident attorneys don’t back down. We know the tactics insurance companies use to deny claims, and we know how to hold negligent parties accountable. Your medical bills, lost wages, and future are on the line. Don’t face this battle alone. Contact Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC by calling 949-727-9300 or contacting us online for a free consultation with San Diego Construction Accident attorneys. You deserve answers, and you deserve justice.

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