Construction is a dangerous line of work. Construction workers face numerous hazards on the job, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that over 1,000 construction workers die on the job every year. While, sometimes, an employer or a coworker causes another worker’s injury, it is also possible for a third party who is otherwise involved in the operations of the job site to be responsible instead.
Learn about your legal rights after a third party causes your work injury.
Understanding Liability for Work Injuries
Workers’ compensation laws prevent workers from suing their employers for their work injuries. These laws work two-fold: they protect employers from lawsuits while at the same time guaranteeing workers money after an injury, regardless of fault. So, most of the time, injured workers may only recover funds through a workers’ compensation claim.
However, there are some instances where neither an employer nor a coworker is responsible for a work injury. A work injury could very well be caused by a third party who is present on a job site or who had some role in the development of the equipment used. Examples of such third parties include:
- A contractor employed by another company who is present on the job site to perform a specialized task.
- A product manufacturer who developed faulty machinery, scaffolding, or other equipment.
- A motorist who drives through a work zone while distracted and strikes a worker.
In these unique circumstances, it may be possible to recover compensation through a personal injury claim in San Jose or a product liability claim. These situations are complicated and require the guidance of a seasoned legal professional. Our team at Caputo and Van Der Walde – Injury & Accident Attorneys is here to help you sort out the details and determine whether you have a case.
Call Caputo and Van Der Walde – Injury & Accident Attorneys at (800) 900-0863 to schedule a free consultation.