What Makes Construction Sites So Dangerous in San Diego?
Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in the country, especially in California. Workers face risks every single day from falling debris, unstable scaffolding, heavy machinery, and electrocution hazards. If you have been hurt in a construction accident, you may have the right to pursue compensation beyond what workers compensation benefits alone can provide. At Setareh Law, we fight for injured workers and bystanders throughout California, including those harmed on San Diego construction sites. Our team brings over 60 years of combined experience to each case, and we have recovered more than $250 million for our clients. We handle every case on a contingency fee basis. If you are looking for a San Diego personal injury attorney, we are ready to help.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction sector had the highest number of workplace fatalities in California in 2023 with 78 deaths. Nationwide, construction accounts for roughly 20 percent of all worker fatalities each year. Several hazard types appear repeatedly at San Diego job sites including falls from scaffolding, being struck by falling equipment, electrocution from exposed wiring, caught-in accidents involving machinery, and trench collapses.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Construction Accident?
Liability in a construction workplace accident can extend to multiple parties including general contractors, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, and property owners. California comparative fault rules allow injured workers to pursue third-party claims alongside workers compensation. Workers compensation does not compensate for pain and suffering, full lost income, or the long-term impact of a catastrophic injury. A personal injury claim against a negligent third party can help fill those gaps.
What Compensation May Be Available After a Construction Accident?
Types of Damages in a Construction Accident Case
Economic damages include current and future medical expenses, lost wages during recovery, and the cost of long-term care or rehabilitation. Non-economic damages address the physical pain, emotional suffering, and reduced quality of life that often follow serious construction injuries. In the most tragic cases, surviving family members may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. California law generally gives families two years from the date of death to file.
The Role of OSHA Violations
When Cal/OSHA investigates a construction accident, any violations they document can become powerful evidence in a personal injury case. Violations related to fall protection, scaffold safety, and electrical hazard prevention are among the most common findings on California construction sites. If your case involves a truck accident near a construction zone, we handle those claims as well.
How San Diego Construction Workers Can Protect Their Rights
Taking the right steps after a construction accident can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible and request a written record. Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Document the scene with photos or video if it is safe to do so. Gather names and contact information for any witnesses. Avoid signing any documents from an insurance company without speaking to an attorney first. We also handle related cases for pedestrian accidents and construction accidents in Chula Vista, and throughout the greater San Diego area.
Contact Setareh Law After a San Diego Construction Accident
At Setareh Law, we are committed to making the legal process as clear and manageable as possible. Our team serves clients throughout California from seven office locations, offers home visits when needed, and provides bilingual services in English and Spanish. We handle construction accident cases on a contingency fee basis, so there is no cost to you unless we recover compensation. Contact our office today to schedule your free consultation.
