Construction projects are a familiar sight across Alberta. From new developments in downtown Calgary to roadway expansions along the province’s highways, construction is vital to economic growth. But these sites also come with risks. Heavy equipment, elevated structures, and fast-paced environments create dangerous conditions not just for workers, but for anyone nearby.
When accidents happen, the consequences are often catastrophic: brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even wrongful death. Understanding how the law treats injured construction workers compared to bystanders is essential for pursuing fair compensation.
Grover Law Firm is proud to serve Calgary and communities across Alberta with dedicated representation for serious injury victims. If you’ve been hurt on or near a construction site, our team is here to help you pursue justice and recovery.
Injuries to Construction Workers: Legal Rights and Barriers
Workers face unique risks every day: falls from scaffolding, equipment malfunctions, electrical hazards, and exposure to toxic substances. In Alberta, injured employees are often directed into the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) system.
Workers’ Compensation in Alberta
- Provides benefits such as wage replacement and medical care
- Removes the right to sue an employer in most cases
- Leaves workers navigating a complex and sometimes restrictive system
While WCB is meant to support injured workers, it can limit compensation, especially in cases of catastrophic injuries like brain injuries or spinal cord damage. These injuries often require lifelong care that far exceeds standard benefits.
Grover Law Firm helps injured workers understand their rights, explore potential claims against third parties, and challenge unfair denials or limitations.
Injuries to Bystanders: Pedestrians, Drivers, and Visitors
Unlike employees, bystanders injured near construction sites are not confined to the WCB system. They may pursue personal injury claims directly against contractors, subcontractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers.
Common Bystander Scenarios
- A pedestrian struck by falling debris near a downtown Calgary building project
- A driver injured in a collision caused by poorly marked construction zones
- A delivery worker hurt by defective scaffolding while entering a site
Bystanders are entitled to pursue full damages for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering — often leading to higher compensation than workers limited by WCB rules.
Shared Risks: Catastrophic Consequences
Whether worker or bystander, construction site injuries frequently involve severe trauma:
- Brain Injuries from falling objects or vehicle collisions
- Spinal Cord Injuries from falls or equipment malfunctions
- Wrongful Death when safety protocols are ignored
- Chronic Pain Injuries from repetitive strain or untreated damage
These cases demand serious representation. Grover Law Firm focuses exclusively on injury victims, ensuring that medical evidence, liability disputes, and compensation claims are handled with skill and determination.
Multiple Liable Parties in Construction Injury Cases
One challenge unique to construction accidents is the number of potential defendants. Projects often involve:
- General contractors
- Subcontractors
- Engineers and architects
- Equipment suppliers
- Municipal authorities
For workers, this means potential third-party claims outside the WCB system. For bystanders, it means careful investigation to identify all responsible parties.
Grover Law Firm has experience untangling complex liability webs to maximize recovery for clients.
Alberta Legal Landscape: What Victims Should Know
Construction injury claims in Alberta are governed by several important laws and institutions:
- Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA): Sets safety standards for employers and contractors
- Alberta Courts: Where bystander and third-party claims are litigated
- Workers’ Compensation Board of Alberta: Administers the no-fault system for employees
Victims should also be aware that contributory negligence (shared fault) may reduce compensation. For example, a worker not wearing proper safety gear could see their damages reduced, though serious injuries may still warrant significant awards.
How Grover Law Firm Advocates for Construction Accident Victims
Grover Law Firm is dedicated to serious injury representation. Our focus on catastrophic cases means we understand the long-term medical, financial, and emotional toll of construction accidents.
We provide:
- Thorough Investigation: Identifying all liable parties
- Medical Advocacy: Working with doctors and rehabilitation specialists
- Insurance Dispute Resolution: Challenging denials and low offers
- Trial-Ready Litigation: Standing up to corporations and insurers in court
If you’ve been seriously injured in a construction accident, you need a legal team that treats your recovery with the seriousness it deserves.
Call to Action
If you’ve been seriously hurt, don’t wait — contact Grover Law Firm now. Our team is committed to helping Alberta’s injury victims fight for maximum compensation and the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Your injury is serious. Your recovery should be, too. Call Grover Law Firm in Calgary today to schedule your free injury consultation.