What Legal Options Are Available After A Roofing Accident Injury?

What Legal Options Are Available After A Roofing Accident Injury?

Roofing is one of the most hazardous construction jobs. From working at high elevations to handling heavy tools and dangerous materials, the risk of serious injury is always present. One misstep, faulty equipment, or failure in safety precautions can result in a devastating accident — often with long-term consequences. If you or someone you love has suffered a roofing accident in Los Angeles, it’s critical to understand your legal options and rights.

In many cases, victims of roofing injuries don’t just deal with physical pain — they also face mounting medical bills, loss of income, and uncertainty about their future. That’s why consulting with an experienced Los Angeles knee injury lawyer or work injury attorney can be a powerful step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

Common Types of Roofing Accidents

Roofing accidents can happen in a variety of ways. Some of the most common include:

  • Falls from roofs, ladders, or scaffolding
  • Collapsing roof structures
  • Injuries from power tools or falling objects
  • Burns from hot tar or chemicals
  • Repetitive stress injuries from kneeling or crouching for long periods

One of the most serious and frequently reported injuries in roofing accidents is knee trauma. A torn ACL, meniscus damage, or fractured patella can lead to surgeries, physical therapy, and months of recovery — possibly even permanent disability.

Workers’ Compensation After a Roofing Injury

If you were injured while working on a roofing job in Los Angeles, your first legal option is usually a workers’ compensation claim. California law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which can cover:

  • Medical treatment
  • Temporary or permanent disability benefits
  • Supplemental job displacement benefits
  • Death benefits (for surviving family members)

However, it’s not uncommon for workers’ comp claims to be delayed, underpaid, or denied — especially in complex cases involving severe injuries like knee damage. That’s when a Los Angeles knee injury lawyer can step in to advocate for your rights and help ensure you receive fair compensation.

Can You Sue Outside of Workers’ Comp?

Workers’ compensation typically prevents employees from suing their employer directly for injuries. However, there are exceptions where a personal injury lawsuit may also be an option:

  • Third-party liability: If a roofing accident was caused by defective equipment (like a faulty harness or ladder), a claim can be filed against the manufacturer or vendor.
  • Negligence of a subcontractor: If another contractor on-site was responsible for unsafe conditions, you may be able to sue them for negligence.
  • Gross misconduct: In rare cases, if your employer’s behavior goes beyond mere negligence — for example, forcing employees to work without required safety gear — legal action beyond workers’ comp might be possible.

These lawsuits can potentially result in higher compensation, including pain and suffering damages, which are not covered by workers’ comp.

Why You Need a Lawyer Specializing in Roofing and Knee Injuries

After a roofing accident, especially one involving a serious knee injury, having a skilled attorney on your side can make a substantial difference. An experienced Los Angeles knee injury lawyer can:

  • Investigate the cause of the accident
  • Gather critical evidence, including safety violations or defective equipment.
  • File and manage your workers’ comp claim
  • Explore the potential for a personal injury lawsuit.
  • Fight for the full range of benefits and damages you are entitled.

Legal professionals who specialize in workplace injuries understand the complex web of liability that can surround a roofing accident. They can assess whether your claim involves multiple parties, defective products, or safety violations — and guide you accordingly.

Conclusion: Take Action After a Roofing Accident

If you’ve been hurt in a roofing accident, especially one involving a knee injury, don’t wait to take legal action. Whether it’s navigating a difficult workers’ compensation claim or exploring third-party liability, you deserve a team that knows the ins and outs of injury law in Los Angeles.

A knowledgeable Los Angeles knee injury lawyer can help you regain financial stability, access proper medical care, and move forward with confidence. Your recovery and your rights are too important to leave to chance.