Injuries That Qualify for a Construction Accident Claim

Posted in Construction Accidents on February 13, 2026

Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces in California. From falls and falling debris to heavy machinery accidents and electrical hazards, workers face daily risks that can lead to life-changing injuries. If you or someone you love was hurt on a job site, you may be wondering whether your injury qualifies for a construction accident claim.

At North Bay Legal, we help injured construction workers and their families understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. This guide explains the most common injuries that qualify for a construction accident claim, how California law applies, and what steps to take next.

Understanding Construction Accident Claims in California

Most injured construction workers initially file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation covers medical treatment and a portion of lost wages regardless of fault. However, in many cases, injured workers may also have the right to file a third-party personal injury claim if someone other than their employer caused or contributed to the accident.

If you have already filed for workers’ compensation, you may still be able to pursue additional compensation. Learn more about your options here: Suing If You Already Filed a Workers’ Compensation Claim.

Construction accident claims may involve negligent subcontractors, property owners, equipment manufacturers, or general contractors. These claims can provide compensation beyond what workers’ compensation covers, including full lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical costs.

Common Injuries That Qualify for a Construction Accident Claim

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head injuries are among the most serious construction site injuries. Falls from scaffolding, ladder accidents, or being struck by falling objects can cause traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s traumatic brain injury overview, TBIs can lead to long-term cognitive impairment, personality changes, memory loss, and physical disabilities. Even a seemingly mild concussion can result in lasting complications.

If a TBI was caused by unsafe conditions, defective equipment, or third-party negligence, it may qualify for a construction accident lawsuit in addition to workers’ compensation.

2. Spinal Cord Injuries and Back Injuries

Construction workers frequently suffer spinal injuries from falls, collapsing structures, or heavy equipment accidents. These injuries can range from herniated discs and fractured vertebrae to complete spinal cord damage resulting in paralysis.

Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. When negligence played a role, such as a subcontractor failing to secure scaffolding or a property owner ignoring safety hazards, a construction accident claim may help recover damages for lifetime medical expenses and lost earning capacity.

3. Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones are extremely common on construction sites. Falls from heights, crush injuries, and equipment accidents frequently result in fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.

While some fractures heal within weeks, others require surgery, hardware implantation, and months of physical therapy. Severe fractures can cause permanent mobility issues and chronic pain. If another party’s negligence contributed to your injury, it may qualify for a personal injury claim.

4. Burn Injuries

Construction sites expose workers to electrical wiring, flammable materials, chemicals, and hot equipment. Burn injuries may result from electrical accidents, explosions, or chemical exposure.

Severe burns can cause permanent scarring, nerve damage, and emotional trauma. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration construction safety standards outline strict rules designed to prevent these types of injuries. When contractors or property owners violate safety regulations, injured workers may have grounds for a claim.

5. Crush Injuries

Heavy machinery, collapsing trenches, or falling materials can trap or crush workers. Crush injuries can damage muscles, nerves, and internal organs. In some cases, they result in amputation.

These injuries are often catastrophic and may require multiple surgeries and ongoing medical care. If defective equipment or negligent supervision contributed to the accident, a third-party construction accident claim may be appropriate.

6. Amputations

Power tools, heavy machinery, and crushing accidents can result in the loss of fingers, hands, arms, legs, or feet. Amputations dramatically impact a person’s ability to work and live independently.

Compensation in these cases may include prosthetics, rehabilitation, psychological counseling, and long-term lost wages. Amputation injuries almost always qualify as serious claims due to their permanent nature.

7. Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma from falls or being struck by objects can cause internal bleeding and organ damage. These injuries are particularly dangerous because symptoms may not appear immediately.

Prompt medical treatment is critical. If an internal injury resulted from unsafe site conditions or defective equipment, it may support a construction accident claim.

8. Repetitive Stress Injuries

Not all qualifying injuries are sudden or catastrophic. Repetitive stress injuries from prolonged heavy lifting, vibration from tools, or repetitive motion may also qualify. Examples include chronic back injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and joint damage.

While these cases may initially be handled through workers’ compensation, certain circumstances involving defective tools or unsafe work practices may open the door to additional claims.

Fatal Construction Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims

Tragically, some construction accidents result in fatalities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics workplace injury data, construction consistently ranks among the industries with the highest number of fatal workplace incidents.

When a loved one dies due to a construction accident caused by negligence, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims can provide compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship.

When Does an Injury Qualify for More Than Workers’ Compensation?

Many injured workers assume that workers’ compensation is their only option. However, your injury may qualify for a third-party personal injury claim if:

• A subcontractor or contractor created unsafe conditions
• A property owner failed to maintain a safe job site
• Defective equipment or machinery caused the injury
• A negligent driver caused a construction zone accident

In these situations, you may be able to recover damages that workers’ compensation does not cover, such as pain and suffering and full wage loss.

If you are unsure what steps to take after being hurt, review our guide: What Should I Do After a Construction Accident in Santa Rosa?. You can also learn more about how our firm handles these cases on our Construction Accidents page.

How Serious Does an Injury Have to Be to Qualify?

There is no minimum level of severity required to file a claim. However, the value of your claim will depend on factors such as:

• The extent of your medical treatment
• Whether the injury caused permanent impairment
• Time missed from work
• Impact on your future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering

Even injuries that initially seem minor can develop into long-term conditions. It is important to document your injuries, seek immediate medical care, and speak with an experienced attorney before accepting any settlement.

Why Legal Representation Matters in Construction Accident Cases

Construction accident claims often involve multiple parties, complex contracts, and aggressive insurance companies. Determining liability requires a detailed investigation, including reviewing safety logs, training records, equipment maintenance reports, and witness statements.

At North Bay Legal, we understand the unique challenges construction workers face in Santa Rosa and throughout the North Bay. We approach every case with compassion, clarity, and a commitment to protecting your rights.

Our goal is not just to file paperwork. We work to build strong cases that reflect the full impact of your injuries on your life and your family.

What To Do If You Were Injured on a Construction Site

If you suffered an injury on a construction site:

1. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Report the injury to your employer.
3. Document the accident scene if possible.
4. Collect witness information.
5. Speak with a construction accident attorney before giving recorded statements.

Taking these steps can protect both your health and your legal rights.

Speak With North Bay Legal About Your Construction Injury

If you are asking whether your injury qualifies for a construction accident claim, the safest next step is to speak with an experienced attorney. Every case is unique, and small details can make a significant difference in your eligibility for compensation.

North Bay Legal is committed to helping injured construction workers in Santa Rosa and throughout the North Bay understand their options. We offer compassionate guidance and strategic advocacy designed to secure the maximum compensation available under California law.

If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, contact North Bay Legal today for a consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.