LA Metro has recently undertaken a major project involving the extension of existing subway and light-rail lines, along with the addition of new lines. One of the main purposes of this project is to boost the city’s infrastructure in anticipation of the 2028 Summer Olympic Games.
However, the project recently ran into a minor snag when construction of the Purple Line extension had to be halted temporarily. The reason for stopping construction: multiple accidents.
Purple Line Construction Was Halted Due to Several Safety Incidents
Halting of construction was prompted in part by a letter from LA Metro to contractor Tutor Perini O&G. The letter was part of a larger staff report to the LA Metro Board of Directors.
The letter referenced numerous accidents resulting in injury to workers since July 2021. Such accidents include multiple incidents involving workers falling from ladders, as well as accidents in which workers were struck by pipes and hoses that had not been fastened properly, among other safety incidents.
This isn’t the first time LA Metro officials have voiced concern about accidents during construction. The report to the Board of Directors indicates that LA Metro sent the contractor 10 letters since October of 2020 in which injuries to workers were highlighted. Despite these efforts, according to LA Metro, instead of improving, the circumstances have worsened. According to the letter, “There is an ongoing pattern of safety issues that have not been adequately addressed by TPOG and that has continued to persist unchecked. A fundamental change in safety culture is required on the Project.”
Accidents weren’t the only safety issues the letter referenced. In it, LA Metro officials also pointed out that:
- Some tunnels are impassable
- Ventilation in certain areas of the construction project isn’t in compliance with a Cal/OSHA-approved plan
- Some tunnels contain silica dust
- Slipping accidents are common in some tunnels due to the presence of standing water and muck
It isn’t yet clear whether these developments will have a significant impact on the project’s timeline. However, it is clear that this is an instance in which a contractor may not be taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of its workers.
How Injured Purple Line Construction Workers Can Seek Compensation
It’s unfortunate when a contractor doesn’t prioritize employee safety. That said, at least California has robust workers’ compensation laws, ensuring that injured construction workers have the right to seek compensation for certain economic losses (such as medical bills) by filing claims for workers’ compensation benefits.
It’s important for workers who exercise this right to understand that workers’ compensation insurance carriers are businesses. They might not be inclined to lose money by offering claimants the full amount of compensation they deserve.
At the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg, we’re familiar with the ways insurance companies try to protect themselves financially. Thus, our Los Angeles workers’ compensation and construction accident attorney is on hand to provide injured workers with the representation they deserve. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 310-997-0904.
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