Santa Barbara Industrial Accident & Wrongful Death Attorney

Fighting For Industrial Accident & Wrongful Death Victims in California

Whether you’ve been injured on the job or have lost a loved one to a workplace tragedy,  Ghitterman, Ghitterman & Feld has the deepest sympathy for your loss and wants to help you. We will work diligently to obtain maximum compensation so you and your family have the financial support you need.

Call our Santa Barbara industrial accident lawyers at (805) 243-2179 or reach out here online today.

Common Injuries in Industrial Accidents

Regardless of the injury you or your loved one suffered, we can help. 

That includes the cases of these sadly commonplace industrial injuries: 

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) occur when a sudden jolt or blow to the head leads to brain dysfunction. In industrial accidents, TBIs can occur due to falls, being struck by objects, or exposure to hazardous substances. The severity of TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
• Severe Burn Injuries can occur due to fires, explosions, or contact with hot substances. Severe burns often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation. 
• Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs) can result from falls, being struck by heavy objects, or machinery accidents. SCIs often lead to partial or complete paralysis and require significant medical intervention, including surgery and ongoing rehabilitation. 
• Amputations are a devastating consequence of industrial accidents, often resulting from equipment malfunctions or contact with heavy machinery. 
• Traumatic Eye Injuries can occur due to flying debris, chemical exposure, or accidents involving tools or machinery. These injuries can lead to partial or complete vision loss and require specialized medical treatment. 

Common Causes of Industrial Accident & Wrongful Death

Common causes may include:

• Defective Machinery or Equipment: Faulty equipment is a leading cause of industrial accidents. Machines may malfunction due to poor maintenance, manufacturer defects, or improper use, leading to severe injuries or death. Employers must ensure that all equipment is regularly inspected, maintained, and used safely. When this duty is breached, it can result in catastrophic accidents. Legal action can be taken against manufacturers, distributors, or other responsible parties in such cases.
• Falls from Heights: Industrial workers often work at significant heights, whether on scaffolding, ladders, or elevated platforms. If safety measures are not in place, falls can be fatal. Employers must provide proper fall protection gear, ensure stable working platforms, and enforce safety protocols to prevent these tragedies. If an employer fails to meet these safety standards, they can be held liable in a wrongful death claim.
• Explosions and Fires: Certain industries, such as chemical plants, refineries, and factories, are susceptible to explosions or fires due to the nature of the materials handled. Inadequate safety procedures, improper storage of flammable materials, or lack of fire suppression systems can lead to fatal accidents. The parties responsible for maintaining safety measures in these environments must be held accountable when accidents occur.
• Toxic Exposure: Prolonged exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as asbestos, lead, or other toxic substances, can lead to fatal health conditions. In some cases, industrial workers develop severe illnesses, such as cancer, due to workplace exposure. Employers must provide workers with protective equipment and ensure that hazardous materials are safely managed. If they fail to meet these standards, they may face liability for wrongful death claims.
• Electrocution: Industrial workplaces often involve complex electrical systems. If workers are not adequately trained or provided with proper safety equipment, they are at risk of electrocution. These accidents frequently occur during construction or repair work and can result in immediate death. The responsible parties, including contractors or supervisors, must be held accountable for failing to create a safe work environment.
• Vehicle Accidents: Many industrial settings, particularly construction sites, use heavy machinery and vehicles, such as forklifts, cranes, and trucks. Accidents involving these vehicles can be fatal, especially if operators are not adequately trained or safety protocols are not followed. The employer or contractor in charge of the site may be liable for accidents that occur due to inadequate supervision or safety measures.