The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health reported that an investigation was launched into an incident that sent four construction workers to the hospital. Reportedly, the injuries were caused by the partial collapse of a building under construction. Although nobody suffered life-threatening injuries, workers’ compensation claims are likely to follow.
Reportedly, a crew from the fire department responded after receiving an emergency call at approximately 10:30 a.m. on a recent Monday morning. According to a spokesperson for Cal/OSHA, the workers were working on the construction of a wooden building when the structure collapsed. It is suspected that a supporting truss gave way, causing the partial collapse of the building.
Further reports indicate that the injuries of two of the injured men who were transported to the hospital were moderate, while the other two were treated for minor injuries and released from the medical facility. The Cal/OSHA investigators will work to determine the cause of the collapse. Such investigations typically also examine the employer’s compliance with safety standards, and violations will lead to citations, and fines might be proposed.
Regardless of the severity of the injuries suffered in workplace accidents, medical bills of eligible workers will be covered by the California workers’ compensation insurance system. Furthermore, the insurance program is a no-fault system that pays benefits regardless of who may have been responsible for an accident. If the injuries prevent an immediate return to work, temporary disability benefits might also be awarded. Navigating the benefits claims process could be challenging, but the assistance of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can simplify the legal and administrative proceedings.