Construction Zone Accidents: Who’s Liable and Why It Matters

Construction zones are rather common in cities and neighborhoods all across the country. In fact, if you live in a major city, passing by a construction site is usually an everyday occurrence. Often marked by fences or warning signs, construction zones are designed to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. However, accidents still happen, leaving many wondering who is responsible for their injuries.

Determining liability in construction zone accidents depends on various elements. In this article, we'll explore the factors that influence responsibility in construction zone accidents and what injured pedestrians need to know when pursuing compensation.

Common Causes of Construction Zone Accidents

Construction companies are responsible for providing a safe space not only for their workers but also for pedestrians and other passersby who may come near the site. This duty extends beyond the construction zone itself and includes securing the area with proper fencing and barriers to prevent unauthorized access and minimize potential hazards. Failing to implement these safety measures can result in accidents, leaving the company liable for any resulting injuries. While most sites are fenced off or clearly marked with warning signs, accidents can still occur when:

Protective barriers are missing
Warning signs are not clearly visible
Construction materials block sidewalks or pedestrian pathways
Equipment is left unattended and accessible to the public

Pedestrian injuries on construction sites often result from these oversights, however a construction company may not always be at fault. Pedestrians may be held partially or fully liable for construction zone accidents if they ignored clear warning signs or barriers, entered a restricted area without permission, or were distracted, such as walking while using a phone.

California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning both parties can share fault. For instance, if pedestrians bypassed a barricade to take a shortcut through a construction site, they may be deemed partially responsible for their injuries. However, if the barricade was improperly installed or missing altogether, the construction company might still bear significant liability.

Proving Liability in Construction Zone Accidents

Establishing liability requires gathering evidence, such as:

Taking photos of the accident scene, including any obstructed pathways or improper signage
Collecting witness statements from bystanders
Obtaining a copy of any official incident reports

A knowledgeable injury attorney can help build a compelling case by investigating the construction site's safety history and reviewing compliance records.

Construction zone accidents can leave pedestrians facing painful injuries and costly medical bills. While construction companies are typically responsible for securing their work areas, pedestrians also have a responsibility to exercise caution. Determining liability in construction zone accidents depends on the specifics of each case, including whether safety precautions were in place and followed correctly.

If you've been injured on a construction site and suspect negligence played a role, consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue fair and just compensation for your injuries. Filing a personal injury claim for pedestrian accidents can be a complicated and lengthy process if you attempt to handle it on your own. An experienced injury attorney can guide you through the legal process, gather crucial evidence, and advocate on your behalf to help secure a fair settlement for your injuries.

Can I Afford a Personal Injury Attorney?

Most personal injury law firms work on a contingency fee basis, making legal representation accessible to injured victims regardless of their financial situation. So, how does a contingency fee agreement work? It's simple—you pay nothing unless your attorney successfully resolves your case through a settlement or verdict. Once your claim is settled or won, your attorney receives a percentage of the compensation awarded.

If you'd like more information or need legal advice, contact our office to schedule an appointment with a personal injury attorney in Los Angeles. Yepremyan Law Firm has been a trusted legal advisor since 1998. As an established personal injury law firm in North Hollywood, we serve clients all over Southern California. Our firm offers free case evaluations and 24/7 support to ensure injured victims receive the guidance they need.

Call Yepremyan Law Firm today to speak with a North Hollywood pedestrian accident attorney and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.

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