Construction Accidents

San Francisco Construction Accident Attorney

Helping injured construction Workers in SF

If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site in San Francisco, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At Bostwick & Associates, our experienced legal team is committed to helping injured workers and their families navigate the complex legal system. Construction accidents can result in serious injuries, long-term disability, or even death. Our San Francisco construction accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call (888) 831-8448 or contact us online today for a free consultation with a trusted San Francisco construction accident lawyer.

Common Types of Construction Accidents

Construction sites are inherently dangerous, but some types of accidents occur more frequently than others. At Bostwick & Associates, we routinely handle cases involving:

  • Falls from Heights – These include falls from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, and unfinished structures. Falls are among the most common—and deadliest—construction accidents.
  • Falling Objects – Tools, debris, or equipment falling from above can cause head injuries, broken bones, or even fatal trauma.
  • Electrocutions – Contact with exposed wires, faulty electrical systems, or power lines can lead to serious burns or death.
  • Caught-in or Between Accidents – Workers can be trapped between heavy machinery, equipment, or structures, resulting in crushing injuries.
  • Heavy Machinery Accidents – Forklifts, cranes, bulldozers, and other machinery pose a major hazard when improperly operated or maintained.
  • Slips, Trips, and Falls – Even ground-level slips can result in severe injuries such as spinal cord damage or fractures.
  • Trench Collapses – Trenches that are not properly reinforced may collapse, trapping or suffocating workers.

Whether you’re a construction worker, contractor, or a bystander injured near a construction site, our firm can help investigate your case and pursue the right legal path forward.

Common Reasons Why Construction Accidents Happen

Identifying the cause of a construction accident is critical to building a strong legal case. Common causes of construction-related injuries in San Francisco include:

  • Lack of Proper Safety Training – Employers are required to train workers on safety procedures. Failure to do so puts everyone at risk.
  • Inadequate Fall Protection – Missing or defective harnesses, guardrails, or safety nets can lead to fatal falls.
  • Unsafe Work Conditions – Slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and unmarked hazards often result in preventable injuries.
  • Defective Equipment – Malfunctioning tools or machinery due to poor design or maintenance may cause serious accidents.
  • Negligent Supervision – Foremen or site managers who fail to enforce safety standards may be held liable.
  • Violation of OSHA Standards – Many construction accidents stem from companies failing to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.

No matter the cause, our team is ready to investigate the details of your case and determine all potential sources of liability.

Workers' Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims in California

California law allows most injured construction workers to file workers’ compensation claims through their employer’s insurance. This no-fault system provides benefits like:

  • Medical treatment
  • Temporary or permanent disability benefits
  • Supplemental job displacement benefits
  • Death benefits for surviving family members

However, workers' comp may not fully cover your losses, especially if a third party (other than your employer) contributed to your accident. In such cases, you may also be able to file a third-party personal injury lawsuit, which can allow you to seek compensation for:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Full wage loss
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Examples of third parties include equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, property owners, or general contractors who are not your direct employer.

Construction Accident FAQs

What should I do after a construction accident in San Francisco?

First, seek immediate medical attention. Then report the accident to your employer and document everything you can, including photos, witness statements, and medical records. Finally, consult with an experienced construction accident lawyer as soon as possible.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. For workers’ compensation claims, you must report the injury to your employer within 30 days and file a claim within one year.

Can I sue my employer for a construction accident?

In most cases, no—you cannot sue your employer directly due to California’s workers’ compensation laws. However, if your injury was caused by a third party or due to gross negligence, a separate lawsuit may be possible.

How much is my construction accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, your lost wages, medical expenses, and whether a third party was at fault. Our firm provides free consultations to help you understand the potential value of your claim.

Do I need a lawyer for a workers’ compensation claim?

While it’s not required, having an attorney can significantly improve your chances of getting the full benefits you’re entitled to—especially if your claim is denied or disputed.

Aggressive Representation for Victims

Bostwick & Associates has over 50 years of combined experience representing the needs of personal injury victims, including those involved in construction accidents. Our firm will work closely to gather all the details about your case in an effort to provide you with the best possible chance at victory and a substantial financial compensation reward. As a member of the American Trial Lawyers Association, we take every case as seriously as our clients do and will aggressively pursue compensation on your behalf.

Contact our SF construction accident attorneys today at (888) 831-8448.

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED LAW FIRM

  • Inner Circle of Advocates
    Inner Circle of Advocates

    Invitation-only organization of the top 100 plaintiff trial lawyers in the U.S.

  • International Academy of Trial Lawyers
    International Academy of Trial Lawyers

    Former President of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, limited to the top 500 trial lawyers in the U.S.

  • American Board of Trial Advocates
    American Board of Trial Advocates

    Invitation-only group of the nation’s top civil lawyers and judges.

  • Super Lawyers 2024
    Super Lawyers 2024

    James S. Bostwick has been named top-rated medical malpractice attorneys in Northern California.

  • The Best Lawyers in America
    The Best Lawyers in America

    Recognized since its inception in 1983 by this peer-reviewed publication, comprised of the best legal talent in the world. Awarded Best Malpractice Lawyer in 2012 and 2013.

  • Lawdragon
    Lawdragon

    James Bostwick inducted into the Hall of Fame and featured among the Top 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers in America.

  • American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys
    American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys

    James Bostwick is a nationally certified medical malpractice specialist and founding member.

  • Best Law Firms 2024
    Best Law Firms 2024

    Recognized for professional excellence with impressive ratings from clients and peers.

What Sets Bostwick & Associates Apart?

  • Since January 2018, the firm has twice broken the California record for the largest medical malpractice settlement
  • More than $1 billion recovered for our clients
  • James Bostwick was named Trial Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers® in 2012
  • Record-setting verdicts and settlements in five states for medical malpractice and motor vehicle accidents
  • James Bostwick is a member of the Inner Circle of Advocates, limited to the nation’s top 100 plaintiff lawyers
  • James Bostwick received the Trial Lawyers "Presidential Award of Merit"
  • Included in the list of "Best Lawyers in America" by U.S. News - Best Lawyers® since its inception in 1983
  • James Bostwick is a Nationally Certified Specialist by the American Board of Professional Liability

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