Construction is a lucrative field and has helped many people make a good living. However, as Queens NY construction accidents lawyers can confirm, it is also a dangerous industry. There are many hazards on construction sites that can put workers at risk of getting injured.
Here are some common causes of construction accidents.
Electrocution
Construction workers have a risk of getting electrocuted from defective wiring, malfunctioning machinery, improper grounding for electrical outlets and contact with power lines. Electrocution can cause severe burns, amputations, damage to internal organs and even death.
Falls
Construction workers often have to work from elevated surfaces, like ladders, roofs and scaffolding. If these areas are not properly secured or defective, construction workers are in danger of falling. Workers can suffer serious injuries from falls, such as traumatic brain injuries, broken bones and spinal cord injuries. They can reduce their risk of serious injury by wearing the proper safety equipment.
Caught In-Between
As the legal team from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. can explain, a caught in-between accident occurs when a construction worker’s body is caught between two or more moving objects. For example, a worker may get a body part stuck inside machinery, which can cause catastrophic injuries, like amputation.
Falling Objects
These accidents can occur when an object or debris falls from a higher level. Construction workers can suffer serious head injuries as a result. Workers can protect themselves by always wearing hard hats and being aware of the surroundings.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can also occur on construction sites. There are often tools and other clutter on the ground that workers can trip over. It’s important for construction workers to wear the proper shoes and pay attention to where they are walking.
Crane Accidents
Cranes are one of the most common types of machinery used on construction sites. They can also be unstable and dangerous. Construction workers have fallen from cranes and been in the middle of crane collapses, which often results in severe injuries.
Liability in Construction Accidents
If you have recently been hurt in a construction accident, you might wonder who to call accountable. Construction workers typically can’t sue their employers for injuries they sustain on the job. They can, however, file workers compensation claims to recover compensation for their medical bills and lost wages. Keep in mind that fault is not a factor considered in workers compensation claims.
In certain situations, you may be able to file a lawsuit outside of your workers compensation claim if a third-party is to blame for your accident. For example, if you were hurt by a defective tool or machine on a construction site, you may be able to sue the product manufacturer. In addition to medical bills and lost wages, you may be able to claim pain and suffering, emotional distress and other damages in a third-party lawsuit.
If you have been injured on a construction site, you may want to get in touch with a construction accident lawyer.
