San Diego Construction Accident Attorneys
Construction sites are inherently hazardous, and accidents can result in life-altering injuries, devastating financial burdens, and immense emotional distress. Because of the nature of construction work, it is important that all contractors, tradesmen, and workers are committed to safety. When tragedy strikes, you need a trusted and experienced San Diego construction accident lawyer who will tirelessly fight for your rights and confirm you receive the fair compensation you deserve.
At Jassim Law, we have extensive experience in construction matters, and we know what can happen if shortcuts are taken with safety, when the proper safety officers are not in place, and when money and timelines are prioritized over safety. It is a recipe for disaster.
When a construction accident resulting in injury occurs, finger-pointing begins. The various contractors and trades point the finger at each other to shift the blame for what caused the accident. Our experience tells us that almost every time, the accident was inevitable. Why? Because from the project owner to the general contractor and down to each subcontractor and trade, the pressure to finish projects quickly and in accordance with predetermined deadlines and budgets puts pressure from the top down to compromise on safety in favor of meeting deadlines and adhering to budgets. As the old saying goes, “time is money…” but when it comes to safety, there should never be any compromise.
At Jassim Law, we believe in personalized attention and treating every client with empathy and as an individual with unique needs. We take the time to listen to your story, assess the circumstances of your accident, and develop a customized legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. You can trust our San Diego personal injury lawyers to be your unwavering advocates, answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the support you need during this challenging time.
While project owners, contractors, and insurers have assembled teams of San Diego construction accident lawyers to deflect and avoid responsibility, we are committed to you and your family. We do not take shortcuts when your health and ability to provide for your family is at stake, while the powerful entities put their profits over YOUR safety.
Types of Construction Accident Injury Cases Our Firm Handles in San Diego, CA
Construction sites are inherently hazardous, and various types of accidents and injuries can occur. Some common types of construction accidents include:
Falls
Falls from heights—such as scaffolding, ladders, roofs, or elevated platforms—are a leading cause of construction site injuries. Lack of fall protection, inadequate safety measures, or unstable work surfaces can contribute to these accidents.
Struck by Objects
Construction workers can be struck by falling objects, equipment, or materials on a job site. This includes objects dropped from heights, swinging cranes, flying debris, or even vehicles colliding with workers.
Crushing Accidents
These accidents occur when a worker gets caught, crushed, or pinned between objects or machinery. Examples include getting snagged in heavy machinery, between collapsing structures, or in trenches or excavations.
Electrocutions
Construction sites involve electrical systems, wiring, and power tools, creating the risk of electrocution. Contact with live wires, faulty equipment, inadequate grounding, or improper use of electrical devices can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Machinery Accidents
Construction sites often utilize heavy machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, forklifts, and excavators. Accidents can occur due to equipment malfunctions, operator errors, inadequate training, or failure to follow safety protocols.
Fires and Explosions
Construction sites may involve flammable materials, welding activities, or improper storage of combustible substances. Fires and explosions can result in serious injuries, burns, and other damages.
Chemical Exposure
Construction workers may come into contact with hazardous substances, such as asbestos, lead, solvents, or toxic gasses. Improper handling, inadequate protective measures, or lack of training can lead to chemical exposure and associated health risks.
Structural Collapses
Collapsing structures, walls, scaffolding, or trenches can cause catastrophic accidents. Factors contributing to structural collapses include design flaws, poor construction practices, inadequate support systems, or unstable soil conditions.
Overexertion
Construction work often involves physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy objects, repetitive motions, or working in awkward positions. Overexertion can result in musculoskeletal injuries, strains, sprains, and fatigue-related accidents.
Vehicle Accidents
Construction sites typically have a high volume of vehicles, including trucks, cranes, and other heavy equipment. Collisions between vehicles, pedestrians, or workers operating machinery can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
If you have been injured by one of the above accidents, you must contact a San Diego construction accident attorney for legal representation. Our attorneys will help you obtain the compensation and justice you deserve.
Worker’s Compensation is Not Your Only Recourse or Option
While you certainly may pursue a worker’s compensation claim, if your injury was not caused by your employer (i.e. it was caused by another contractor or trade on the job), you may have the right to pursue a claim against that at-fault party.
For example, if you are a plumbing tradesman and are electrocuted or struck by a crane operator, you may have a claim against the entity responsible for those trades. So, do not assume the worker’s compensation framework is your only recourse, which may only offer limited recovery and limited medical coverage. You need to contact our experienced San Diego construction accident attorneys, who can help you and your family evaluate the circumstances and options.
How a San Diego Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help with a Personal Injury Claim
When you choose to work with a San Diego construction accident attorney, you gain the advantage of our extensive experience in handling construction accident cases. We have a deep understanding of the complex laws and regulations that govern construction sites in San Diego, and we know how to navigate the liability issues that often arise in these types of cases.
At Jassim Law, we assist construction accident victims in San Diego and throughout California by:
- Thoroughly investigating every detail of your construction accident case IMMEDIATELY
- Collecting and preserving vital evidence and witness statements
- Hiring the best experts your case requires
- Going to the scene and reconstructing how the construction accident occurred
- Securing any evidence, surveillance video, photos, and witness statements
- Ensuring you receive the best medical care, no matter what health insurance coverage you may or may not have
- Filing all paperwork correctly and on time
- Advocating for your rights and interests inside and outside of court
- Supporting you through every step of California’s claims process
- Determining if the negligent party was on the job at the time of the accident
- Determining whether additional parties or entities are at fault
- Answering your legal questions
- Keeping you updated on the status of your case
- Negotiating with all parties on your behalf
With our extensive knowledge of personal injury law and a deep understanding of construction site regulations, we are equipped to handle the complexities of construction accident cases. Our construction accident lawyers in San Diego recognizes the profound impact these accidents have on your life and is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the legal process with care and expertise.
What Are Common Causes of Construction Accidents?
Due to the dangerous nature of construction sites, workers assume a certain amount of risk. However, those involved in maintaining a construction site, including site managers, property owners, workers, and architects, are responsible for acting responsibly and keeping those in or around the site safe. With several factors contributing to a safe construction area, accidents can occur for various reasons, including the following:
Unsafe Working Conditions
Construction sites should be free of hazards, such as exposed wiring, debris, and materials, and should have sufficient space to work. Additionally, every person in or near the area should follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety rules to maintain proper working conditions. If another construction worker, manager, property owner, or other party fails to follow these regulations and creates unsafe work conditions, they may be responsible for an accident and the resulting injuries.
Insufficient or Unsafe Equipment
Those working on construction sites should have the proper equipment to do their jobs safely. This includes goggles, helmets, and guards for power tools to protect them from falling objects. Machinery and equipment should also be routinely inspected and manufactured properly. The manufacturer of the construction equipment or the construction company could cause serious injuries if they fail to create safe tools and maintain their machinery.
Poor Site Management
Site managers are responsible for enforcing safety protocols and safeguarding the construction site. This includes warning workers about potential hazards in the area. Failing to manage a construction site properly can result in serious accidents and injuries.
Unstable Structures
Architects and engineers should take every measure to ensure a building is designed for safety. If they produce a defective design, their negligence may cause structures to collapse on the construction site and result in serious injuries to workers.
Fatigue
Depending on the project a construction worker is handling, they may work eight to 12-hour days doing heavy lifting, operating heavy machinery, and staying in strenuous positions. Exerting a lot of energy for so long can cause tiredness, accidents, and injuries.
Transporters
Transporters are responsible for loading, unloading, and transporting construction materials like lumber, brick, and cement. These materials can be heavy and require extensive care to deliver safely. Transporters failing to follow safety measures and acting carelessly may result in a construction accident.
8 Safety Measures to Prevent California Construction Accidents
We understand that construction accidents happen, many of which occur for reasons outside your control. However, those responsible for maintaining safety on construction sites can implement the following measures to decrease accidents that occur due to human negligence:
- Personal Protection Equipment: Construction workers should wear basic safety gear, including steel-toed boots, hard hats, ear and eye protection, masks, and gloves to protect themselves from injuries if an accident does occur.
- Safety Meetings and Qualified Safety Managers: Communication is essential for a safe work environment, so scheduling frequent meetings to discuss protocols can keep everyone up-to-date and allow workers to contribute ideas to create the best conditions possible. More than that, each construction project must have a dedicated qualified person overseeing, managing, and enforcing safety protocols!
- Taking Breaks: While some workers may want to work through their breaks to get their work done faster, it’s important to enforce taking pauses to eat and rest to decrease the risk of overexertion, fatigue, and dehydration.
- Training: Before beginning a project, construction workers should receive safety training to prevent accidents.
- Warning Signs: With the amount of dangerous equipment and processes on a construction site, there should be warning signs, cones, and roped-off areas to inform workers of potential hazards.
- Proper Storage: Having construction materials cluttering work areas can be dangerous, so it is important to handle and store these materials properly.
- Inspections: Construction sites should be inspected daily to identify and address any potential hazards before workers return the following day.
- Maintain Equipment: Construction companies should routinely inspect and maintain their equipment to ensure it functions properly before being used on a site and to identify any defects or issues before workers use it.
Unfortunately, even if you follow safety measures closely and carefully, you may still suffer injuries in a construction accident due to someone else’s negligence. Our dedicated lawyers at Jassim Law understand the impact these injuries can have on your life and fight tirelessly to hold the liable party accountable and secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
For Legal Representation, Call Our Construction Accident Lawyers in San Diego
The Jassim Law team is not intimidated by insurance companies or big corporations. Our San Diego construction accident lawyers have a reputation for advocacy and will work passionately to secure the compensation you deserve. We understand the financial strain caused by medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, which is why we tirelessly pursue justice on your behalf.
Our track record of success speaks volumes about our dedication to our clients and our commitment to achieving justice—just read our reviews from real recent clients. Attorney Pajman Jassim has also received the honor of being named one of San Diego Metro Magazine’s Best Attorneys. Additionally, Pajman received an Avvo.com rating of “10.0” and was rated as a “Top Employment Attorney” and “Top Contributor in Personal Injury.” You can read his reviews at Avvo.com.
Our personal injury lawyers in San Diego want to make communities safer and help victims just like you. Schedule your free consultation today by calling (858) 524-6140 or filling out our contact form. We understand you are injured, so we come to you. We also offer video, Zoom, or telephone consultations.
LEGALLY REVIEWED BY:
Pajman and Parisima Jassim
November 26, 2024