[08-28-2024] San Diego County, CA – Construction Worker Killed After Trench Collapse in Scripps Ranch

A construction worker tragically died after becoming trapped under a collapsed trench in Scripps Ranch, San Diego, early Wednesday morning, August 28, 2024.

According to San Diego Fire Rescue, the incident occurred around 4:00 a.m. near Hoyt Park Drive and Scripps Ranch Boulevard.

Approximately 30 workers were at the site working on a pure water project when the trench gave way, trapping the victim under a four-foot steel and concrete pipe and dirt.

The initial trench rescue operation was later turned into a recovery effort after SDFD confirmed the worker had passed away.

Authorities are currently using an excavator to move the dirt and attempt to lift the pipe off the victim, with the retrieval expected to take up to three hours.

California Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) officials are investigating the incident, and all construction at the site has been halted until the investigation is completed.

There is no additional information immediately available.

Call Our Skilled Workers’ Compensation Lawyers In San Diego, CA

Workplace accidents can result in severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a workplace incident, it is essential to seek legal representation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Our injury law firm in San Diego is here to guide you through this challenging time.

You can rely on our renowned San Diego workers’ compensation attorneys to help you with your insurance claim or effectively represent you in court proceedings if necessary. Arash Law has recovered over $500 Million for clients and is widely acknowledged for its success and credibility as one of California’s most recognized personal injury law firms.

If you want to speak with one of our personal injury attorneys, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After A Workplace Accident in San Diego, CA

An employee involved in a work-related accident in San Diego is eligible for compensation under the state’s workers’ compensation law, regardless of who is responsible. Additionally, in the tragic event of a wrongful death resulting from a workplace accident, surviving family members may be entitled to additional compensation.

If you were injured in a workplace accident, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to ensure safety and protect your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

1. Report The Incident To The Employer — Notify your employer or supervisor immediately. This will ensure the incident is documented, and appropriate measures can be taken.
2. Seek Medical Attention — Regardless of the severity of your injuries, it’s important to seek medical evaluation promptly. Some injuries may not be apparent right away but could worsen over time. Medical records will also serve as valuable evidence in your claim.
3. Document The Scene — If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including any equipment, conditions, or other factors that contributed to the incident. This evidence can be crucial in supporting your claim.
4. Gather Witness Information — Obtain contact details and statements from any witnesses to the incident. Their testimonies can strengthen your case.
5. File A Workers’ Compensation Claim — In California, most workers are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits after a workplace injury. Report the incident to your employer and file a claim as soon as possible.
6. Keep Detailed Records — Keep a record of all medical treatments, expenses, and any impact the injury has had on your daily life. This documentation will be important in building your case.
7. Consult With An Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer — Call our skilled workers’s compensation lawyers to discuss your case and explore your legal options. An attorney can help you navigate the workers’ compensation process and pursue additional compensation if third-party liability is involved.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Workplace Accident Statistics

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 5,486 fatal work injuries in the US in 2022, a 5.7% increase from 5,190 in 2021. The BLS stated that in 2022, a worker died every 96 minutes from a work-related injury, compared to every 101 minutes in 2021.

Transportation incidents remained the most frequent type of fatal event, accounting for 37.7% of all occupational fatalities. There were 2,066 fatal injuries from transportation incidents in 2022, a 4.2% increase from 1,982 in 2021.

Additionally, work-related fatalities due to falls, slips, and trips increased by 1.8% in 2022, resulting in 865 fatalities, up from 850 in 2021. Most fatalities in this category (80.9%) were due to falls to lower levels, which accounted for 700 fatalities in 2022, a 2.9% increase from 680 fatalities in 2021.

Navigating the process of recovering the financial compensation an accident victim is entitled to can be challenging. To have the best chance of recovering financially, individuals should ensure they are working with experienced San Diego workplace injury lawyers.