Construction sites are notorious for being hazardous workplaces with a high risk of accidents and injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, it is critical that you understand your legal rights and options.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
- Poor Communication
- Human Error
- Lack of Proper Equipment
- Insufficient Training
Preventing Accidents on the Construction Site
Construction companies must be proactive in identifying risk factors and implementing mitigation measures. Regular safety audits, safety protocols, training, and investing in cutting-edge safety technology can all be part of this.
Common Types of NYC Construction Accidents
Crane Accidents
Accidents involving cranes are among the riskiest and most frequent types of construction mishaps. Cranes are large, powerful vehicles used for lifting and moving supplies and machinery.
Falls from Heights
Falls from great heights are a leading cause of construction accidents. A variety of factors can cause them. There is a lack of safety equipment, training, and human error.
Electrocution
Exposure to live electrical wires or improperly maintained electrical equipment can result in electrocution. Burns, heart failure, and even death, among other severe injuries, can result from electrocution.
Falling Objects
On construction sites, falling objects, such as tools and equipment, can result in severe injuries. Lack of personal protective equipment, poor storage, and handling procedures are all potential causes.
Scaffolding Collapses
Accidents on construction sites, particularly those involving collapsed scaffolding, are all too common. Poor planning, shoddy construction, or an overcrowded structure are all possible causes.
Vehicle Accidents
Construction sites are dangerous places because of the prevalence of heavy equipment and vehicles. Multiple factors may have contributed to these accidents, resulting in disastrous consequences such as broken bones, brain damage, and even death.
Machinery and Equipment Injuries
Accidents involving power tools, heavy machinery, and commercial vehicles are common among construction workers. Improper use or maintenance of these machines can result in limb damage, broken bones, and even death.
What to Do After a New York City Construction Accident
Seek Medical Attention
If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, it is critical that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and seeking prompt medical attention can ensure that any underlying injuries are detected and treated.
Report the Accident
An accident on the job must be reported to a supervisor or site manager as soon as possible. This way, data can be recorded and checked for accuracy, and any potential hazards on the job site can be avoided.
Contact NYC Construction Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one were injured in a construction accident, you should seek the advice of an experienced construction accident lawyer. An attorney can advise you on your rights and options and walk you through the legal process of obtaining workers’ compensation benefits for your injuries.
Contact Your Insurance Company
You should also contact your insurance company to report the accident and ensure that any financial compensation due under your insurance policy is received.
Legal Obligations of General Contractors and Property Owners
New York State Labor Law (LAB) Article 7, Section 200, outlines the legal responsibilities of general contractors and property owners to provide “reasonable and adequate” protection for the safety, health, and lives of each construction worker on building sites. That includes providing appropriate safety equipment, training, and supervision.
Compensation for Injuries Involving Construction Equipment
By NY Labor Law Article 10, Section 240, employers are required to ensure the proper installation and security of construction equipment on job sites. If the employer fails to meet this legal obligation, injured construction workers can file a workers’ compensation claim against the property owner.
Time Limits for Construction Accident Claims
Construction site accidents in New York City are subject to different statutes of limitations. There is a three-year statute of limitations from the date of the incident for personal injury lawsuits involving negligence, such as slip-and-fall accidents. A construction accident lawyer representing the victim’s estate has two years from the date of the incident to file a claim in wrongful death cases.
How to Choose the Right NYC Construction Accident Lawyer
It is best to choose a construction accident lawyer with a proven track record of success in handling construction accident cases. The right New York construction accident lawyers will be familiar with the complexities of construction accidents, the New York State Labor Law and any applicable regulations.
Experience with similar cases is required because it demonstrates a thorough understanding of the unique challenges that such accidents present. Consider the lawyer’s communication skills as well. Communicating effectively with clients, witnesses, and other parties involved in the case is critical to ensuring a favorable outcome. Finally, selecting a lawyer with whom you are comfortable and dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the just compensation you deserve is critical.
Concluding Thoughts
Accidents on construction sites are common in New York City. The right construction accident lawyer can assist you in navigating the legal system and recovering compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
You should be aware of the most common causes of accidents, the steps to take following an accident, and the legal responsibilities of general contractors and property owners. This will prepare you to defend your rights and seek a favorable outcome in your construction accident case. If you have the right representation, you can concentrate on recovering from your construction accident injuries and moving on with your life.
The Assistance Offered by Ross & Hill for Construction Accident Cases
Are you looking for a skilled New York construction accident attorney? Are you thinking about filing a personal injury lawsuit? Do you know anything about New York Labor Law? If this is the case, you should consult with an experienced construction accident lawyer.
With offices in Brooklyn and Manhattan, New York, Ross & Hill is a respected law firm specializing in handling construction accident cases in New York City. Our knowledgeable construction accident lawyers thoroughly understand the intricate New York labor laws that regulate building sites. They have a proven record of obtaining fair compensation for clients.
If you or a loved one sustained an injury in a construction site accident in NYC, our New York construction accident attorneys will assist you in comprehending your legal rights and options. They will help you fight for the just compensation you deserve. Do not hesitate to take action if you or a loved one has been injured in a construction site accident. Contact Ross & Hill today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced New York construction accident lawyers.
