Construction sites are inherently dangerous places. Workers often face risks from heavy machinery, working at heights, exposure to hazardous materials, and unsafe working conditions. In Corpus Christi, where construction continues to thrive across residential, commercial, and industrial projects, these risks are an everyday reality. If you've been injured on the job, consulting a Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer can be one of the most important steps toward recovering your health and securing your future.
This guide will walk you through the essential information you need: your legal options, the types of compensation you may be entitled to, and how a construction accident attorney can support your claim.
Why You Might Need a Construction Accident Lawyer
After a serious construction injury, many workers are unsure of what to do next. The process of filing a claim, dealing with insurance companies, or navigating workers' compensation laws can be complex and stressful—especially when you’re also managing medical treatment and lost income.
Hiring a Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer ensures that your case is handled by someone who understands the local laws, industry safety regulations, and how to advocate for injured workers. A lawyer can:
Assess whether you are eligible for compensation beyond workers’ compensation
Determine if third parties (like contractors or manufacturers) may be liable
Represent you in negotiations with insurers or in court
Help recover the maximum financial compensation allowed by law
Common Types of Construction Accidents
Construction zones are dynamic environments involving equipment, multiple contractors, and often tight deadlines. These conditions can lead to a wide range of accidents, including:
1. Falls From Heights
Ladders, scaffolding, rooftops, and open-sided floors create high fall risks. Falls are a leading cause of severe injuries and deaths in the construction industry.
2. Falling Objects
Workers can be struck by tools, materials, or debris falling from above—especially when proper safety gear is not used or safety protocols are ignored.
3. Electrocutions
Live wires, exposed power sources, and improper lockout/tagout procedures can lead to fatal electric shocks.
4. Caught-In/Between Accidents
These involve workers being pinned between equipment, collapsing structures, or machinery—often resulting in crushing injuries or amputations.
5. Equipment or Machinery Failures
Malfunctioning or improperly maintained heavy equipment (like cranes, forklifts, or excavators) can cause life-altering injuries.
6. Trench Collapses
Excavations not properly reinforced may collapse, trapping or suffocating workers.
Each of these incidents may have unique legal implications and may warrant a thorough investigation by a Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
In Texas, injured construction workers may pursue compensation through two main avenues: workers’ compensation or personal injury claims. The correct path depends on the circumstances of the accident and whether your employer carries workers’ compensation insurance.
Workers’ Compensation
If your employer carries workers’ comp, you can file a claim to receive coverage for:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Partial disability
Rehabilitation services
However, workers’ compensation typically does not cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. In most cases, you cannot sue your employer if they provide this insurance.
Personal Injury Claims
You may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit if:
Your employer does not carry workers' compensation
A third party (such as a contractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer) was negligent
The injury was caused by a willful or egregious safety violation
A Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer will evaluate your case and determine the best legal strategy for recovering full and fair compensation.
Types of Compensation You May Be Eligible For
Whether through a workers’ compensation claim or a third-party lawsuit, construction accident victims may be entitled to several forms of compensation, including:
Medical expenses (surgery, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medication)
Lost income due to time away from work
Loss of future earning capacity if you are permanently disabled
Pain and suffering for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
Permanent disfigurement or disability
Wrongful death benefits for surviving family members if the accident was fatal
A Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer will calculate the true value of your claim by considering both short- and long-term impacts of the injury.
Who May Be Held Liable?
Construction projects often involve multiple parties, and liability may fall on one or more of the following:
General contractors
Subcontractors
Property owners
Equipment manufacturers
Architects or engineers
Third-party vendors
Establishing who was legally responsible for the conditions that caused your injury is a crucial step in building a strong case. A lawyer will investigate the accident scene, gather safety records, interview witnesses, and consult with industry experts to identify all sources of liability.
The Role of OSHA Violations
Many construction accidents result from violations of safety standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Failing to follow these standards—such as neglecting fall protection or trench safety rules—can lead to citations and be used as evidence of negligence.
A Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer can examine OSHA reports and site inspection records to help prove liability and strengthen your case.
How a Lawyer Helps With the Legal Process
Legal representation is more than just filing paperwork. A construction accident lawyer provides full support by:
Investigating the cause of the accident
Preserving key evidence
Handling communications with insurance companies
Filing claims and meeting deadlines
Negotiating for a fair settlement
Representing you in court if necessary
The legal system is complex, especially when multiple parties and insurance companies are involved. With a knowledgeable attorney by your side, you can focus on recovery while they focus on protecting your legal rights.
Texas Time Limits for Filing a Claim
In Texas, personal injury lawsuits—such as those involving construction accidents—are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. This means you must file your lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident.
Failing to file in time could mean forfeiting your right to compensation. A Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer will ensure that all necessary actions are taken within the legal deadlines.
What to Bring to Your First Legal Consultation
To prepare for your consultation with a construction accident attorney, bring the following:
Medical records and bills
Photos or videos from the accident scene
Witness contact information
Accident reports (employer or OSHA-related)
Proof of lost income (pay stubs, tax forms)
Insurance correspondence
This information will help your lawyer assess your case accurately and begin building a strong claim from the start.
Final Thoughts
Construction accidents can be life-altering, physically, emotionally, and financially. Fortunately, the law provides protections and paths to recovery for injured workers. A qualified Corpus Christi construction accident lawyer plays a vital role in ensuring that you are not taken advantage of by employers or insurance companies—and that you receive the compensation you are legally entitled to.
Whether you are dealing with mounting medical bills, missed work, or long-term disability, you don't have to go through it alone. Seek legal advice as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin the process of recovery.