Construction sites are inherently dangerous work zones. Employers are responsible for the health and safety of employees by following strict safety standards. The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health says all workplace injuries are preventable. However, some construction workers’ accidents result from the negligence of third parties.

Firefighters recently rescued a construction worker from a hole into which he fell when a vehicle smashed into the equipment on which he was working. According to a police report, the accident occurred at an intersection in Anaheim where the worker was working on some equipment that also included a backhoe. A driver who traveled through the intersection smashed into the equipment.

Reportedly, the impact of the collision caused the worker to fall into a 15-foot deep hole. Rescue crews managed to bring the worker to street level, and reported that he was conscious and responsive. They rushed him to the hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. Reportedly, the driver of the car was arrested after he tried to flee the scene.

Victims of construction workers’ accidents in California are typically eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, if a third party’s negligence caused the injuries, there might be grounds for filing a civil lawsuit. The sensible thing to do would be to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to explain the options and assist with the navigation of both the claims for insurance benefits and a third-party civil claim. Such a lawsuit allows the injured worker to recover more damages than the usual medical expenses and lost wages that are typically included in workers’ compensation benefits.