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Construction Injuries in California: What Workers Should Know Before Filing a Claim

by | Oct 22, 2025 | Workplace Injuries

Construction is one of the most dangerous occupations in California. Whether you’re working on a residential build in Oxnard, a commercial project in Ventura, or public infrastructure in Santa Paula, the job often involves physical labor, hazardous materials, and dangerous equipment.

If you are injured on a construction site, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under California law. At Kinsler Law, we help injured construction workers understand their rights, navigate the legal process, and secure the benefits they deserve—regardless of immigration status or how they are paid.

Common Types of Construction Injuries

Construction workers face unique and serious risks every day. These are some of the most common injuries seen in the field:

  • Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs
  • Back injuries due to lifting heavy materials
  • Crush injuries from collapsing structures or equipment
  • Lacerations and amputations caused by machinery or tools
  • Electrical burns or shock
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from falling objects
  • Repetitive motion injuries to knees, shoulders, and back
  • Exposure to harmful substances such as asbestos, concrete dust, or chemicals

Even injuries that may seem minor at first can develop into serious medical issues over time and should be properly evaluated.

Your Legal Rights as an Injured Construction Worker

If you are injured while performing your job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation, which covers:

  • Medical treatment at no cost to you
  • Temporary or permanent disability benefits
  • Partial wage replacement during your recovery
  • Job retraining if you cannot return to your previous work
  • Death benefits for the family if a worker dies due to a job-related injury

California law protects all workers—regardless of immigration status. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have a work visa to qualify for these benefits.

Your employer cannot legally fire, threaten, or report you to immigration authorities for filing a claim. If they do, you may have additional rights to pursue a retaliation claim.

Steps to Take After a Construction Injury

If you have been injured on a construction site, it is important to take immediate steps to protect both your health and your legal rights:

  1. Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
    Delays in reporting may affect your claim.
  2. Seek medical treatment right away.
    You may be sent to a doctor within your employer’s medical provider network (MPN), but in emergencies, go to the nearest hospital.
  3. Document the incident and your injuries.
    Take photographs of the scene, record names of witnesses, and keep copies of all medical records.
  4. Avoid signing documents without legal advice.
    Some employers or insurers may attempt to minimize your injury or have you sign away your rights.
  5. Contact a workers’ compensation attorney.
    A qualified attorney can help you file your claim, protect your rights, and guide you through the process.

How Kinsler Law Can Help

At Kinsler Law, we represent construction workers throughout Ventura County who have been injured on the job. Our firm is committed to helping clients who may be facing pressure, confusion, or fear—especially those who are undocumented or paid in cash.

Our services include:

  • Filing or appealing workers’ compensation claims
  • Coordinating medical treatment and second opinions
  • Representing you in hearings or settlement negotiations
  • Protecting you against employer retaliation
  • Explaining your rights in plain language, in English or Spanish

We offer remote consultations by Zoom or phone, and we do not charge upfront fees. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Serving Construction Workers Across Ventura County

Whether you are building homes in Oxnard, working on commercial developments in Ventura, or managing infrastructure projects in Santa Paula, you are entitled to safety, respect, and legal protection. Our team is local, experienced, and focused on serving workers in your community.

We are proud to work with construction workers of all backgrounds—including day laborers, undocumented workers, subcontractors, and those paid in cash.

Contact Kinsler Law for a Free Consultation

If you were injured while working construction in California, do not wait to seek legal help. There are strict deadlines for filing a claim, and early legal advice can make a significant difference in your outcome.

Contact Kinsler Law today for a confidential consultation. We’ll explain your rights under California law and help you get the medical treatment and financial support you need to recover.