Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces in California. Despite strict safety regulations and training requirements from OSHA, accidents still happen every day. Falls, electrocutions, equipment malfunctions, and exposure to hazardous materials can all lead to life-changing injuries.

If you were injured on a construction site, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and in some cases, additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. At Hillstone Law, our experienced Los Angeles construction accident lawyers help injured workers protect their rights and secure the maximum compensation available.

Filing a Construction Injury Claim in California

After a construction site accident, your health comes first. Here’s what you should do to protect both your recovery and your legal rights:

1. Seek immediate medical attention
   Even if your injuries seem minor, delaying treatment could hurt both your health and your claim.
2. Report the injury in writing
   Notify your employer or insurer as soon as possible, and keep a copy of the report for your records.
3. Consult with a Los Angeles construction accident lawyer
   Having an attorney on your side ensures that your claim is handled properly and that you pursue all avenues of compensation available to you.

Workers’ Compensation for Construction Accidents

California law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This is a no-fault system, meaning you don’t have to prove your employer caused the accident only that:

• You were injured, and
• The injury occurred while performing your job duties.

Through workers’ comp, you may be entitled to:

• Payment for necessary medical treatment (current and future)
• Wage replacement for lost income
• Partial or total disability benefits

However, workers’ comp benefits are limited. They do not cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, or other non-economic damages. That’s why many injured workers may also benefit from filing a personal injury lawsuit.

Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Claims

While workers’ comp provides necessary coverage, a personal injury lawsuit may allow you to recover additional damages if someone other than your employer or co-worker caused your injuries. This might include:

• A negligent contractor or subcontractor
• A third-party equipment manufacturer for defective machinery
• A property owner who failed to maintain safe conditions

Through a personal injury lawsuit, you may be able to recover:

• Full compensation for medical expenses
• Lost wages and future earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life

An experienced attorney can help determine whether you can pursue both workers’ compensation and a personal injury lawsuit for maximum recovery.

Hire a Los Angeles Construction Accident Lawyer

Understanding which type of claim to file and how to file it correctly is crucial to protecting your rights. Insurance companies often minimize payouts, but you deserve the full compensation the law allows.

At Hillstone Law, we fight tirelessly for injured construction workers across California. Our attorneys have the experience and dedication to handle complex construction accident claims and hold negligent parties accountable.