Compensation for Construction Accident Victims

author
Conor Hulburt
published
December 21, 2024

Construction accidents can leave victims with devastating injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, it’s essential to understand the types of compensation available to help rebuild your life. At Hulburt Law Firm, we’re committed to securing justice for construction accident victims and their families. Below, we outline the types of compensation you may be eligible to receive and how an experienced attorney can help you maximize your recovery.

Medical Expenses

Injuries sustained in construction accidents often require extensive medical care, from emergency treatment to long-term rehabilitation. Compensation can cover:

  • Hospital Bills: Emergency room visits, surgeries, and hospital stays.
  • Ongoing Treatment: Physical therapy, chiropractic care, and follow-up doctor visits.
  • Medication Costs: Prescription medications needed for pain management or recovery.
  • Assistive Devices: Costs for wheelchairs, crutches, prosthetics, or other adaptive equipment.
  • Future Medical Care: Anticipated expenses for ongoing or future medical treatment related to the injury.

Lost Income

Construction injuries can leave victims unable to work for weeks, months, or even permanently. Compensation may include:

  • Lost Wages: Recovery for income lost during the period of recovery.
  • Reduced Earning Capacity: Compensation for the long-term impact on your ability to work, especially if injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or career.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Lost Wages: Under California workers’ compensation laws, injured workers are typically entitled to temporary or permanent disability benefits, which cover a portion of lost income.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond the financial losses, construction accidents can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Victims may be eligible to recover damages for:

  • Physical Pain: Compensation for ongoing pain or discomfort caused by injuries.
  • Emotional Distress: Damages for anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other psychological impacts.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities or hobbies enjoyed before the accident.

Personal Injury vs. Workers’ Compensation: While workers’ compensation does not cover pain and suffering, victims can seek these damages through a personal injury or third-party liability claim.

Disability and Disfigurement

Construction accidents can result in life-altering injuries, including amputations, paralysis, or severe burns. Victims may receive compensation for:

  • Permanent Disability: Financial recovery for the inability to return to work or live independently.
  • Disfigurement: Damages for scarring or physical changes that impact self-esteem and quality of life.

These damages aim to account for the profound ways an injury can alter a victim’s life.

Wrongful Death Damages

In cases where a construction accident results in the tragic loss of a loved one, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation can include:

  • Funeral and Burial Expenses: Coverage for the costs of laying your loved one to rest.
  • Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for the income your loved one would have provided.
  • Loss of Companionship: Damages for the emotional loss of a spouse, parent, or child.

California law allows certain family members, such as spouses, children, or dependents, to file wrongful death claims.

Other Recoverable Damages

Victims of construction accidents may also be entitled to additional damages, such as:

  • Vocational Training: If injuries prevent returning to the same job, compensation may cover retraining for a new career.
  • Home Modifications: Costs to make a home accessible for those with permanent disabilities (e.g., wheelchair ramps).
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter future misconduct.

Maximizing Compensation: How an Attorney Can Help

Construction accident claims can be complex, involving multiple parties, legal processes, and regulations. An experienced attorney plays a crucial role in helping victims secure the full compensation they deserve. Here are some key ways attorneys can help:

  1. Determine Liability: Investigate the accident to identify all responsible parties, including subcontractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers.
  2. Gather Evidence: Collect medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a strong case.
  3. Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Push back against low settlement offers and ensure your losses are fully accounted for.
  4. Pursue Litigation if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will take your case to court.

Why Choose Hulburt Law Firm?

At Hulburt Law Firm, our San Diego Construction Accident Attorneys bring decades of experience and a passion for justice to every construction accident case. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial hardships you face, and we’re committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.

What Sets Us Apart?

  • Comprehensive Legal Representation: We leave no stone unturned in investigating your accident and identifying liable parties.
  • Trial-Ready Advocacy: With a proven track record of success in the courtroom, we’re prepared to fight aggressively for your rights.
  • Compassionate Support: We take the time to listen to your story and provide personalized guidance every step of the way.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in San Diego, don’t face the challenges alone. Let Hulburt Law Firm help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. The Truth Demands Justice—and we’re here to fight for yours.

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