There are more than 150,000 ongoing construction projects at any given time in New York. Needless to say, the construction industry is booming. This is especially true of New York City and surrounding areas. Unfortunately, with so much activity, there is an uncanny amount of accidents and injuries on construction sites. Jobs in the construction industry are exponentially more dangerous than most other jobs. In the state of New York, death rates on construction sites are five times higher than any other occupation. Though accidents will happen, some are preventable. Since many construction employers are incentivized to finish projects quickly and at low cost, they sometimes cut corners. This can make an already dangerous occupation even more hazardous. Additionally, mistakes can happen on the job due to carelessness, lack of training, improper protective gear, etc. If you have been injured while working on a construction site you may be entitled to compensation. Give the attorneys at Massarelli Law Group a call to schedule your free consultation with an experienced New York construction accident lawyer today. We put the personal in personal injury.
Top Construction Hazards
The construction industry is inherently dangerous. With so many hazards abound, accidents and injuries are likely to occur. This is especially true when construction companies value the bottom line more than they do worker safety. Listed below are some of the top causes of accident injuries on construction sites.
- Unsafe, outdated, or defective equipment
- Lack of appropriate protection on power operated tools
- Insufficient safety training and/or supervision
- Materials and debris that cause trips/falls
- Lack of protection against falls from heights
- Falling equipment or debris
- Falls from ladders or scaffolding
- Caught in between or struck by heavy equipment
- Injured by a construction vehicle (crane, truck, etc.)
Common Injuries Sustained on Construction Sites
There is a slim margin for error on a construction site. The slightest mistake can cause major life-altering injuries. Some common injuries sustained on construction sites include:
- Broken or bruised bones
- Head, neck, and back injuries
- Nerve damage
- Lost appendages
- Cuts, burns, bruises
- Permanent eye damage
- Brain damage
What to do if You Are Injured on a Construction Site
Since the construction is so dangerous, it is important for workers to know what to do in the event that they are injured. If you are injured while on the construction site, you should immediately seek medical attention. Ensure that you notify your employer. It should be noted that you may lose your right to workers’ compensation benefits if you do not alert your employer within 30 days of the injury occurring. Take note of pertinent evidence available at the scene of the accident (site conditions, lack of safety precautions, defective equipment, etc.). Take pictures/video if possible. If you have been injured, closely monitor and document your recovery. Lastly, contact a New York area construction accident attorney.
Working With a New York City Area Construction Accident Lawyer at Massarelli Law Group
If you have been injured while working on a construction site, it can be difficult to prove your case and negotiate with the insurance companies on your own. After all, their main objective is to save money. Many construction workers find that they are simply outmatched when negotiating with the seasoned attorneys representing the insurance company. Though it is possible to represent yourself, it is not recommended. Give the attorneys at Massarelli Law Group a call to speak with an aggressive New York construction accident lawyer today.