Construction Accidents and Third-Party Liability If you were injured on a construction site or by negligent construction work, you may have claims beyond workers' compensation — and those claims can be far more valuable. Workers' comp covers your medical bills and a portion of lost wages, but it doesn't compensate for pain and suffering, and it's capped by formula. A third-party personal injury lawsuit against a negligent contractor, property owner, equipment manufacturer, or subcontractor can recover the full value of your damages. General contractor negligence — failure to maintain safe work conditions Subcontractor negligence — careless work that injures others on site Property owner liability — defective premises, inadequate safety measures Equipment manufacturer defects — faulty scaffolding, power tools, cranes Pedestrian injuries — construction debris, unmarked hazards, falling objects Motorist injuries — improperly marked construction zones on Sacramento roads Construction Injuries We Handle Falls from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, and elevated platforms Falling object injuries — tools, materials, debris Electrical accidents — exposed wiring, arc flash Trench collapse and excavation accidents Heavy equipment accidents — forklifts, cranes, backhoes Injuries to pedestrians and motorists near construction zones Toxic exposure — asbestos, silica dust, lead paint Workers' Comp vs. Third-Party Claims — Know the Difference Workers' compensation is a no-fault system — you don't have to prove the employer was negligent, but your recovery is capped. A third-party personal injury claim requires proving negligence, but can recover full damages including pain and suffering and future medical costs with no cap. DePaoli Law Team coordinates both tracks simultaneously, maximizing what you receive from every available source while protecting your workers' comp claim. Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I sue if I was injured on a construction site as a worker? +Yes — if a third party (not your direct employer) was responsible. Workers' comp covers your employer's liability, but other contractors, property owners, or equipment makers can be sued in civil court for the full value of your damages including pain and suffering. What if I was a pedestrian injured by construction hazards? +You have full personal injury rights against the construction company, general contractor, and property owner. You are not limited to workers' compensation — that only applies to workers. Call DePaoli Law Team for a free evaluation. How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in California? +Generally 2 years from the date of injury for personal injury claims. For latent injuries from toxic exposure, the clock may start when you discover the condition. Government project involvement may shorten deadlines to 6 months — call immediately.