Construction And Worksite Attorneys In Honolulu, Hawaii

Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in Hawaii. Workers and bystanders can suffer serious injuries from falls, heavy machinery, electrical hazards, or unsafe site conditions. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can prevent a person from returning to work for months or even permanently.

If you were injured on a construction site in Honolulu or elsewhere on Oʻahu, you may have legal options beyond workers’ compensation. A construction and worksite accident attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation that supports your recovery and long-term stability.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Construction Accidents In Honolulu?

Construction accidents in Honolulu often result from preventable safety failures, equipment issues, or inadequate supervision. Busy job sites across Oʻahu, including high-rise developments and roadway projects, can present serious hazards.

Common causes of construction injuries include:

• Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs
• Falling tools, debris, or building materials
• Equipment malfunctions
• Electrical burns or exposed wiring
• Crane or heavy machinery accidents
• Trench collapses
• Slip and fall incidents on unstable surfaces

Because many construction projects occur near major roadways like H-1 or in densely populated areas such as Waikīkī and downtown Honolulu, risks may extend beyond workers to pedestrians and motorists as well.

What Types of Injuries Occur in Worksite Accidents?

Worksite accidents frequently result in serious or catastrophic injuries. These injuries can have long-term consequences and may require extensive medical care.

Common construction-related injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Severe burns
• Crush injuries
• Amputations
• Internal organ damage

Some injuries may not fully reveal their severity until days or weeks after the accident, which is why prompt medical evaluation is critical.

What Should You Do After a Construction Accident in Honolulu?

After a construction accident in Honolulu, you should seek medical attention immediately, report the injury to your employer, and document the scene if possible. Quick action can protect both your health and your legal rights.

Important steps include:

• Call 911 if the injury is serious
• Reporting the incident to a supervisor or site manager
• Completing any required workplace injury report
• Preserving photos of the accident scene
• Keeping copies of medical records and treatment plans

Even if you believe the injury is minor, it is important to seek medical evaluation. Construction injuries can worsen over time.

Can You File A Lawsuit In Addition To Workers’ Compensation In Hawaii?

Yes, in certain cases, you may be able to file a third-party lawsuit in addition to receiving workers’ compensation benefits. While workers’ compensation generally covers medical care and a portion of lost wages, it does not provide compensation for pain and suffering.

A third-party claim may be possible if someone other than your employer caused the accident, such as:

• A subcontractor
• A property owner
• An equipment manufacturer
• A negligent driver
• A general contractor

Identifying all potentially responsible parties is often an important step in maximizing available compensation.

What Compensation May Be Available After A Construction Injury In Hawaii?

Compensation after a construction accident may depend on whether the claim involves workers’ compensation benefits, a third-party lawsuit, or both.

Potential recovery may include:

• Medical expenses
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Lost wages
• Reduced future earning capacity
• Long-term disability support
• Pain and suffering (in third-party claims)

Severe construction injuries often require extended treatment and may impact a person’s ability to return to physically demanding work.

How Is Liability Determined In A Honolulu Construction Accident Case?

Liability in a construction accident case is determined by evaluating whether a party failed to follow safety standards, industry regulations, or reasonable care practices.

Evidence may include:

• OSHA compliance records
• Site safety reports
• Witness statements
• Equipment maintenance logs
• Surveillance footage
• Expert safety analysis

Because construction sites often involve multiple companies, determining fault may require a detailed investigation.

Where Do Serious Worksite Accidents Commonly Occur On Oʻahu?

Serious worksite accidents on Oʻahu frequently occur in high-rise construction zones, roadway expansion projects, commercial developments, and residential building sites.

In Honolulu, construction activity near:

• The H-1 Freeway corridor
• Downtown Honolulu
• Waikīkī redevelopment areas
• Kapolei growth zones can increase exposure to heavy machinery and multi-contractor job sites. 

Safety oversight is very important in these environments.

How Can A Honolulu Construction Accident Attorney Help?

A Honolulu construction accident attorney can investigate the cause of the accident, identify responsible parties, coordinate with medical professionals, and pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of the injury.

Legal assistance may involve:

• Reviewing safety violations
• Consulting engineering or workplace experts
• Negotiating with insurers
• Filing a third-party lawsuit when appropriate

Construction injury cases can be complex due to overlapping responsibilities among contractors, subcontractors, and property owners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction and Worksite Accidents in Hawaii

1. How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in Hawaii?

In most cases, Hawaii law allows two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Workers’ compensation claims may have separate deadlines.

2. What if I am an independent contractor?

Traditional workers’ compensation benefits may not cover Independent contractors, but they may still have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against a negligent third party.

3. Can I sue my employer for a construction injury?

In most situations, workers’ compensation laws prevent employees from suing their employer directly. However, lawsuits against third parties may still be possible.

4. What if faulty equipment caused my injury?

If defective machinery or equipment contributed to your injury, a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor may be available.

5. Do construction accident cases require expert testimony?

Often, yes. Safety experts, engineers, or medical specialists may be needed to explain how the accident occurred and the long-term impact of the injury.

Contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner Today

Construction accidents can have serious and often life-altering consequences. If your injury resulted from the carelessness of another, call us 24 hours a day at 808-537-2525 for a free consultation. We are prepared to work tirelessly on your behalf to obtain the compensation you need and deserve. You should not have to suffer because of someone else’s negligence. We can help you pursue justice.