Workplace wrongful death incident claims life on bridge

A California construction worker is dead after falling from a bridge over the 91 Freeway on May 18. The deceased person reportedly fell during the early morning hours as he was participating in demolition activities. Official reports show that the preventable death occurred when a portion of the railroad bridge buckled from beneath the 59-year-old victim. Understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident is crucial for any legal proceedings that may follow. The accident caused traffic to be obstructed in both directions on that road for several hours in the Riverside area.

Authorities say that the victim was a subcontractor worker who was harnessed to the bridge at the time of the incident. A portion of the bridge twisted as it fell, and it swung the man to the pavement below. The road was closed because of the demolition, so it does not appear that any vehicles were involved in the fatal accident.

Emergency responders were reportedly dispatched to the scene of the accident at about 3:20 a.m., and the victim was transported to Riverside Community Hospital shortly thereafter. He died because of the severe injuries he suffered in the fatal accident, passing away less than an hour after the incident occurred. That victim reportedly worked for a subcontracting group called Hard Rock. It is not entirely clear what the man was doing when the fatal accident occurred.

The accident is still ostensibly under investigation by safety officials. The worker was harnessed, which means that at least some safety precautions were in effect. Even if the company that employed the man is not accused of safety violations, some officials and the company itself could be sued for wrongful death in connection with the incident. Gathering evidence is essential to determine if a defendant owed a duty of care and whether a negligent act contributed to the fatality. Family members deserve financial compensation after their relative is killed in a horrific workplace accident. Expenses related to the incident, such as funeral costs and expenses, may be recoverable in a wrongful death claim. Learn more by speaking with a qualified wrongful death lawyer in Irvine.

Source: San Bernardino County Sun, “Road worker from Long Beach killed in fall from partial bridge collapse over 91 Freeway in Riverside” No author given, May. 18, 2014

Introduction to Wrongful Death

Wrongful death claims arise when a person’s life is tragically cut short due to another party’s negligence or intentional act. These claims are designed to help surviving family members seek compensation for the financial and emotional hardships they endure after an untimely death. 

Navigating wrongful death laws can be complex, but understanding your rights is the first step toward achieving a successful wrongful death claim. Wrongful death attorneys play a crucial role in guiding families through the legal process, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to secure fair compensation. Whether the loss results from a workplace accident, medical malpractice, or another wrongful act, surviving family members have the right to pursue justice and hold the responsible party accountable.

The Incident: Fatality on the Bridge

A fatal accident on a bridge is a devastating event that can give rise to a wrongful death lawsuit, especially when negligence or unsafe conditions are involved. In these situations, immediate family members—such as spouses, children, or parents—may be entitled to file a wrongful death suit against the responsible party, which could include a government entity, construction company, or another individual. The purpose of such a lawsuit is to recover damages for the losses suffered, including medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses, lost wages, and the emotional distress caused by the loved one’s death. By holding the responsible party accountable, families can seek the compensation they need to cope with the financial and emotional burdens that follow a fatal accident.

Causes of Wrongful Death in the Workplace

Workplace accidents are a leading cause of wrongful death, particularly in high-risk industries like construction, where employees face daily hazards from heavy machinery, heights, and dangerous environments. In addition to construction accidents, wrongful death can also result from medical malpractice, where a healthcare provider’s failure to provide competent medical care leads to a patient’s death. Premises liability is another common cause, occurring when a property owner’s negligence creates unsafe conditions that result in fatal accidents. In all these scenarios, surviving family members have the right to file a wrongful death claim and seek compensation for their loss, ensuring that those responsible for failing to provide a safe environment or competent care are held accountable.

Types of Accidents

Wrongful death can result from a wide range of accidents, each with its own unique circumstances and challenges. Car accidents are a frequent cause, often stemming from adverse weather conditions, reckless driving, or defective vehicle components. Construction accidents may involve falls from significant heights, electrocution, or being struck by heavy equipment. Medical malpractice cases can include surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or improper medication administration, all of which can have fatal consequences. Regardless of the type of accident, it is essential to gather evidence—such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical records—to build a strong wrongful death lawsuit and establish liability.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

Filing a wrongful death claim is a multi-step process that begins with consulting an experienced wrongful death attorney. The attorney will help family members navigate the legal process, ensuring that all necessary evidence—such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements—is collected to support the case. It is important to act promptly, as wrongful death claims must be filed within the statute of limitations set by state law. Once the claim is filed, the legal team will work to secure fair compensation for the deceased person’s estate and surviving family members. This compensation may include economic damages like lost income and medical bills, as well as non-economic damages for emotional distress and loss of companionship. By working with a knowledgeable attorney, families can improve their chances of achieving a favorable outcome and obtaining the support they need after a tragic loss.