Most Common Types of Construction Site Accidents in California (2024)

California is one of the largest and fastest-growing states in the country, and with that comes the need for infrastructure expansion and renovation. The construction industry sits at the forefront of these development projects, with construction workers being the core of all operations, in which they are constantly at risk of injuries. To protect themselves, it is useful to be aware of the common types of construction site accidents in California.

From falls from heights to heavy machinery collisions, there are a variety of events that can lead to construction site injuries, with each accident case having its own unique characteristics. By being aware of the types of construction site accidents that are occurring across the state, construction employees and employers can take adequate precautions to avoid such accidents.

Common Types of Construction Site Accidents in California

Construction site accidents can occur when we least expect them to, but, fortunately, there are certain precautions that can be taken to reduce the risk of an accident. California OSHA lays out critical protocols and regulations that must be followed, such as wearing adequate personal protective gear and having adequate fall protection. Such regulations can help prevent these most common construction site accidents:

• Falls From Heights: Falls from high surfaces and structures, such as scaffolding, roofs, upper floors, balconies, and ladders, are one of the leading accidents on construction sites. These also cause the greatest number of construction accident-related deaths.
• Toxin Exposure: Exposure to chemicals and toxic materials can lead to long-term dangerous diseases, such as silicosis and asthma. By enforcing adequate face mask protective gear standards, construction workers can be shielded from such diseases.
• Electrocutions: Workers who work on wiring and other projects involving electricity are at the greatest risk of being electrocuted. Following appropriate lockout/tagout procedures can help avoid such accidents.
• Forklift Accidents: Forklift accidents are common at California construction sites. These can be caused by inadequate maintenance, negligent operation, and failure to implement adequate safety protocols.
• Heavy Machinery Accidents: Failing to adequately guard machines can result in injuries to the face, eyes, and other body parts. Construction site accidents involving heavy machinery commonly include motor vehicle crashes and the crushing of an extremity in the heavy machinery, which can cause severe fractures or even amputation.
• Falling Objects: Falling heavy objects at a construction site can lead to severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, especially if workers are not wearing adequate protective gear for the skull.
• Slip and Falls: Uneven surfaces or those that have objects in the way can cause construction workers to unnecessarily trip and fall, which can cause injuries such as hip fractures and wrist sprains.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Working with sharp machinery and other machines that have blades can lead to deep cuts that require stitches or staples. The most severe accidents can result in partial or full amputations of extremities, such as fingers and arms.

While the construction industry is high-risk for workers, the majority of accidents are avoidable, and it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that safety standards and regulations are being properly implemented and followed in their workplace.

If you have been injured while working on a construction site in California, then a compassionate construction site accident lawyer can assess your case, determine your eligibility for state and federal benefits, inform you of your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you are entitled to.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Most Common CA Construction Site Accidents?

A: Common construction site accidents in California are caused by:

• Faulty equipment
• Slip and falls
• Tripping
• Falling heavy objects
• Heavy equipment collisions
• Long-term noise exposure
• Electrocution
• Falls from heights
• Burns from chemicals, fires, and explosions

The nature of a construction site accident will depend on the work being carried out, the parties involved, and the location. Resulting injuries can range from minor cuts and lacerations to severe long-term disabilities or even fatal injuries.

Q: What Construction Site Accidents in California Commonly Cause Death?

A: The leading cause of construction site death is falling from a height. These places are commonly scaffolding, ladders, roofs, high platforms, or upper floors, and falling from such a height can lead to severe injuries or even death. These accidents can be avoided by taking safety precautions, such as staying alert and ensuring that high devices are secure. If a loved one has been killed in a construction site accident, a compassionate employment lawyer can help you pursue compensation on their behalf.

Q: How Much Does a Construction Site Accident Attorney Charge in California?

A: The amount that a construction site accident attorney in California may charge will vary depending on factors such as the:

• Reputation and location of the law firm
• Experience of the attorney
• Complexity of the case
• Severity and nature of the construction site injuries

It’s important to work with an employment attorney who is upfront about their pricing, which will likely be contingency fee-based so that there are no unexpected costs later.

Q: What Is the Most Commonly Violated Construction Site Standard?

A: According to the Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration, fall protection in the construction industry was the most frequently violated standard in the fiscal year of 2022. This standard requires employers to have fall protection systems, and these employers must determine whether the high surfaces that employees will be working on have structural integrity and strength, among other requirements.

Get Post-Accident Legal Representation From a Compassionate Construction Site Injury Lawyer

If you have suffered from a construction site injury, you are likely feeling emotionally and physically exhausted. However, under California workers’ compensation law, you have certain rights and protections as a worker. These can help you get the financial support you need to cover the resulting damages and injuries that are associated with your accident.

A devoted and experienced construction site injury lawyer from Canlas Law Group can assist you with getting access to the benefits you are entitled to, such as workers’ compensation, and ensuring that your rights are protected. Contact us to get started today.