Carpenter & Zuckerman Carpenter & Zuckerman
PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

WINNING CASES SINCE 1920

Bellevue Construction Accident Attorneys

Were You Hurt on a Construction Site? Call Now

While safety protocols and regulations exist to protect workers on construction sites, accidents can still happen due to negligence, equipment malfunctions, or unsafe working conditions. If you were injured on a construction site, the process of getting compensation can feel like an uphill challenge, especially if you aren’t covered by workers’ compensation benefits, as many construction workers are not. 

When you need help understanding your legal options after a construction accident in Bellevue, turn to Carpenter & Zuckerman. Our entire team, including trial lawyers and support staff, is committed to helping injured workers and their families pursue the compensation they deserve, offering support every step of the way.

Why should you pick our Bellevue construction accident attorneys for your case?

  • We have won more than $2 billion for clients through settlements and awards.
  • We have earned a long list of positive testimonials from real clients.
  • We have been representing the wrongfully injured since 1995.
  • We have dozens of trial lawyers on our team who are ready to handle any complex injury case.

Dial (425) 585-4009 to request a no-cost case consultation with Carpenter & Zuckerman in Bellevue.

Types of Construction Accidents

Common types of construction accidents include:

  • Falls: Workers can suffer serious injuries from falls off ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or other elevated surfaces.
  • Falling Objects: Tools, materials, and debris falling from heights can cause traumatic injuries to workers below.
  • Machinery Accidents: Heavy machinery, such as forklifts, cranes, or bulldozers, can malfunction or be improperly operated, leading to crushing injuries or amputations.
  • Electrocutions: Contact with live wires, faulty electrical components, or improperly grounded equipment poses significant risks of severe injuries.
  • Trench Collapses: Workers in improperly supported trenches can be trapped, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
  • Exposure to Hazardous Materials: Construction sites involving asbestos, chemicals, or toxins can cause long-term illnesses or injuries upon exposure.

When such accidents occur, determining liability and seeking compensation can quickly become complex. Did someone do something wrong that led to your injury? Was that mistake enough to make them liable for your losses? We’ll ask and explore these questions and more when you hire us to handle your construction accident claim.

When to File an Injury Claim Instead of a Workers' Compensation Claim

Many construction workers file a workers' compensation claim after an accident, assuming it is their only option. While workers’ comp provides benefits regardless of fault, there are situations when a personal injury claim might also apply, particularly if a third party was involved. At Carpenter & Zuckerman, we focus on construction accident cases that call for an injury claim, rather than a workers’ comp claim.

You may consider filing an injury claim if your accident was caused by:

  • A third-party contractor or subcontractor working on the site.
  • A defective product or equipment malfunction from a manufacturer.
  • Unsafe working conditions caused by an outside entity not employed by your company.
  • Intentional misconduct or gross negligence by a party at the site.

Importantly, if you have workers’ compensation, you are likely required to use it first to pursue compensation for your losses. Also, if you use workers’ compensation, you are not allowed to file a separate injury claim against your employer if their negligence caused your construction accident. To figure out your options, call (425) 585-4009 now.

Types of Compensation in Construction Accident Claim

A personal injury claim for a construction accident may allow you to recover several types of damages, usually including:

  • Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for past and future medical treatments, surgeries, therapy, medications, and hospital stays.
  • Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for income lost due to time off work and for any diminished ability to earn an income in the future.
  • Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional toll the injury has taken on your life.
  • Rehabilitation and Long-term Care Costs: Financial support for ongoing needs, such as physical therapy, assistive devices, or home modifications.
  • Property Damage: If personal property, like tools or equipment, was damaged in the accident, you may be compensated for its repair or replacement.
$131 Million Dram Shop Liability
Our client was injured in a car accident caused by a driver who was over-served at a restaurant/bar.
  • $2.1 Million Hit-and-Run Accident
  • $10.5 Million Accidente de Auto
  • $6.1 Million Assault

Get Answers from Our Talented Attorneys

At Carpenter & Zuckerman, we have the experience and dedication to help you pursue the compensation you deserve after being in a construction accident. Our Bellevue construction accident attorneys can handle your case from start to finish. If your case heads to court, we can draw upon the insight and experience of our entire roster of trial lawyers, too, so your case always has the professional support it deserves.

Contact us today for a free consultation and discuss the next steps you can take.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accident Claims

What is the difference between workers' compensation claims and personal injury claims?

Workers’ compensation provides benefits regardless of who was at fault but typically doesn’t include compensation for pain and suffering. Personal injury claims, on the other hand, allow you to recover additional damages if negligence by a third party can be proven.

How do I know if a third party is liable for my construction accident?

An attorney can investigate your construction accident case to determine if negligence by a third-party contractor, manufacturer, or other entity contributed to your injury. Evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert analysis can establish liability.

What is the statute of limitations for construction accident claims in Washington?

Generally, personal injury claims in Washington must be filed within three years of the construction accident. However, you should not wait the full three years to start a claim. It is recommended that you begin one as soon as possible.

What if my employer retaliates after I file a claim?

Washington law prohibits employer retaliation, including termination, demotion, or harassment, against workers who file legitimate claims. If retaliation occurs, you may have additional legal grounds to pursue. Carpenter & Zuckerman can help you find a reliable employment law attorney that we trust with such cases.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a construction accident case?

Carpenter & Zuckerman works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case, and we strive to keep our attorney fee rates fair and competitive. This approach to payment allows injured workers to access legal representation with no upfront costs and very little financial risk overall.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Do I need a lawyer for a truck accident?

    While you are not required by law to hire a lawyer for a truck accident case in WA, it is highly advisable to consult with and consider retaining an experienced Seattle truck accident attorney. Truck accident cases can be complex, and having legal representation can be crucial for several reasons:

    • Navigating the Legal Process
    • Investigation and Evidence
    • Determining Liability
    • Calculating Damages
    • Negotiating with Insurance Companies
    • Lawsuit Representation
    • Legal Expertise
    • Reducing Stress
    • Contingency Fee Arrangement
    • Maximizing Compensation
  • How long do I have to file a birth injury lawsuit?
    You have either three years from the date that the injury was sustained or one year after you discovered your injury was caused by negligence, whichever is later.
  • What forms of damages can I recover in my Erb's palsy case?
    You may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and more. Once we know more about your case, we can provide a more specific answer.
  • Can I seek property damages in my car accident case?
    Yes.
  • Does Washington have a cap on the compensation you can recover in a medical malpractice case?
    No, damages are uncapped.
  • How much does a surgical error attorney cost?
    We charge on a contingency basis, meaning we will not charge you unless we recover compensation. If we are successful, our fee will be deducted from the compensation that you are awarded.
  • How much is my case worth?
    We cannot give you an estimate without knowing more about your case. In a consultation, we can break down the damages that you may be able to recover.
  • How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit?
    The statute of limitations in cases of wrongful death is three years.
  • Will my truck accident injury be completely covered?

    Whether your truck accident injury will be completely covered in Washington State depends on several factors, including the specifics of your insurance coverage, the liability of the parties involved, and the extent of your injuries.

    1. Insurance Coverage:

      • Your Own Insurance: In Washington State, auto insurance policies often include personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. PIP can help cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault in the accident. However, the coverage limits and terms can vary depending on your policy.
      • Liability Insurance: The truck driver's liability insurance should cover your injuries if the truck driver was at fault. Commercial trucking companies are typically required to carry substantial liability insurance coverage. However, insurance limits can vary, and it's possible that the policy may not fully cover your damages if they are extensive.

    2. Liability Determination:

      • If the truck driver was at fault for the accident, their liability insurance should cover your injuries up to their policy limits.
      • If you were partially at fault for the accident, Washington follows a comparative negligence system. Your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your level of fault. If you were 50% or more at fault, you might not be able to recover damages from the other party.

    3. Injury Severity:

      • The extent and severity of your injuries will play a significant role in determining whether your medical expenses and other damages will be fully covered. Minor injuries may be fully covered, while severe injuries may exhaust insurance policy limits.

    4. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage:

      • If the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, you may rely on your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, if you have it. UM/UIM coverage can provide compensation when the responsible party lacks adequate insurance.

    5. Legal Action:

      • If insurance coverage is insufficient to fully compensate you for your injuries and damages, you may consider pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party or parties. This can help you seek additional compensation through the legal system.
  • Do I need to be physically attacked to file a civil action?
    No. You can file a lawsuit if a person has made you reasonably fear for your safety.
  • How long do birth injury cases take to resolve?
    The time it takes to resolve a case like this depends on numerous factors. These cases can generally go on for several months to several years. Settling out of court tends to lead to faster resolutions.
  • Can a third party be responsible for my injuries in a car accident?
    Yes, if they are responsible for causing the accident. For example, if a defective part leads to an accident, you may be able to seek compensation from the part's manufacturer.
  • Does Washington have a one-bite rule?
    No. You can seek damages against a dog owner regardless of the dog's history.
  • What damages can I recover in a surgical error case?
    You may be entitled to various damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of consortium, and more.
  • How long will it take to resolve my case?
    While we cannot give you a specific figure, we can tell you that these cases generally resolve within a few months to several years. Once we know more about your case, we may be able to give you a more specific estimate.
  • How long do work injury lawsuits take to resolve?
    There is no reliable figure that we can give you; however, most of these lawsuits resolve within a few months to a few years. The time will depend on factors such as how long it takes for your treatment to resolve, whether or not the other party wants to settle out of court, whether we need to call in medical experts as witnesses, and more.
  • Are there any caps on the compensation I can receive in a birth injury case?
    There are not.
  • How long do HIE cases take to resolve fully?
    The answer to this depends on a variety of factors. Typically, these cases can take anywhere from a couple of months to several years.
  • How can I ensure I get the best care following a catastrophic injury?

    We can arrange for you to see a highly qualified specialist.

  • How long do I file to file my lawsuit?
    The statute of limitations on personal injury cases is either three years or one year after discovering that malpractice led to your injury, whichever is later.

The Opinions That Matter Most

    “They communicate quickly. Very friendly. Hardworking.” - Elianna S.
    “They walked me through every step of the way” - Jesse P.