Each year, thousands of construction projects are in operation in New York. Multiple construction sites are a good sign that a city is thriving and growing. However, the downside to so many projects is the increased risk to worker’s safety. According to OSHA, construction is the most dangerous occupation in the workforce. More injuries and fatalities occur in it than in any other job. Though the numbers are clear, accidents continue to happen at an alarming rate. One of the most dangerous kinds of construction site accidents include injuries that occur as a result of falling site debris. This can happen due to negligence, lack of appropriate safety equipment, rushed projects, or ineffective safety procedures. In any case, if you are injured on the worksite, it is your right to pursue a worker’s compensation claim and/or a lawsuit against a third party. Dealing with the implications of your injury can be difficult enough, getting fairly compensated without the assistance of a proven construction accident lawyer in New York can further complicate the process. At Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff, LLP our team of attorneys have a wealth of experience in seeking compensation on behalf of those who have been injured in site debris accidents. Give us a call to schedule your free initial consultation today.
How Site Debris Accidents Occur
Construction sites are full of people, equipment, and hazards. The moment you step onto a construction site, you have a higher risk of injury or fatality than any other type of employee. Site debris accidents can happen very easily and have devastating effects on the injured party. Some reasons that site debris accidents occur include:
- Lack of appropriate training
- Negligence by other workers on the site
- Inadequate stacking of materials or tools
- Uneven or ineffective scaffolds
- Lack of safety signs
- Defective equipment
- Failure to use safety equipment
- Incorrect use of tools
- Inability to maintain a grip on tools or construction materials
You can minimize your risk of falling victim to site debris accidents by being aware of your surroundings, wearing personal protective gear, adhering to safety protocol, not walking under scaffolding (or ladders), etc. Even if you do everything correctly, you may still be susceptible to the negligence of another person.
Common Injuries Related to Site Debris Accidents
Most items on a construction site are heavy. Site debris accidents usually occur as a result of some type of equipment, material, or tool falling from a height. This can cause victims to sustain serious injuries (whether they are wearing safety gear or not). Listed below are some of the most common types of injuries caused by site debris accidents.
- Traumatic head and/or brain injuries
- Lacerations, bruises, and burns
- Neck and spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Permanent disfigurement and injuries
What to do if You Have Been Injured
If you have been injured while on the construction site, it is imperative that you seek immediate medical attention. Furthermore, collect evidence and identify potential witnesses. You must notify your employer within 30 days of the accident. However, it is best to let them know of the occurrence as soon as possible. Lastly, contact a reputable construction accident lawyer in New York. In most cases, you can file a worker’s compensation claim. However, most insurance companies will push back on your claims of losses and injuries, so it’s best to have a proven attorney on your side.
Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer in New York
Filing a worker’s compensation claim is not difficult. What can be difficult is receiving full compensation for your injuries. In many cases, your company’s insurance company will hire lawyers and investigators to make a determination about how much your claim is worth. Unfortunately, that number is rarely what you deserve. Many employees take the first offer without thinking about the long-term effect of the injury, medical costs, etc. Whether you are filing a worker’s compensation claim for site debris accidents or you are pursuing a personal injury suit against a third-party, you don’t have to go it alone.
