Construction sites are one of the highest-risk areas for workplace injuries. Although New York has strict safety regulations, when proper safety procedures and precautions are not in place visitors, pedestrians and other bystanders can become injured as well. Our experienced construction site accident lawyers at The Stanley Law Offices have seen the grave physical, emotional and financial toll that these types of injuries can take on victims and their families. Construction site injuries are often serious and may require ongoing medical treatment involving multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy and home care. Whether you were injured on the job, as a subcontractor or as a visitor at a construction site, our skilled legal team is well-versed in the law and understands how to effectively investigate the facts of a case to determine fault and liability.
Construction Sites Have A Duty Of Care
Although you assume a certain level of risk when entering a construction site, landowners, contractors, and site safety managers have a duty of care to provide safe premises, which includes proper employee training, adequate protective gear and the necessary measures required to create sufficient safety. In New York, many construction sites are required to have a state-licensed safety manager or coordinator on site. Workers also have a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe by following safety regulations, performing their duties properly and avoiding horseplay that can cause injury. It’s important to report any unsafe conditions, damaged or malfunctioning equipment and other potential hazards to a supervisor or safety manager right away.
Common Causes Of Construction Site Injuries
Debris falling from above is one of the most common causes of injuries to construction site workers, bystanders, pedestrians and visitors. If the barricades that are often put in place to keep pedestrians at a safe distance are improperly placed, pedestrians may be hit by falling objects. Workers and visitors may also sustain construction site injuries from falling off ladders or scaffolding, improper operation of heavy equipment & tools and defective machinery. It’s also easy to trip over loose materials on the ground or fall into ditches that are not properly marked. All workers and visitors should be required to wear hard hats and other necessary protective gear. The site safety manager must advise workers and visitors on how to take proper precautions and ensure that clear warning signs are posted where appropriate.
Filing A Construction Site Accident Claim
Landowners, developers and contractors may all be liable for injuries that occur due to unsafe conditions or negligence on a construction site. However, proving negligence can be challenging. An experienced construction site accident attorney will understand the importance of proving duty of care, that the responsible parties breached that duty, and that the breach caused harm or injury.
Insurance companies usually try to offer quick settlements that don’t come close to covering a victim’s damages. They may even deny a valid claim altogether. That’s why it’s vital to have a construction site accident attorney by your side if you’ve been injured. Their legal team will thoroughly investigate the incident, develop effective strategies to recover maximum compensation and negotiate with insurance companies. If your injury was caused by defective equipment, tools or other machinery, your attorney may be able to pursue a third-party products liability lawsuit as well.
If You’re A Worker Hurt At A Construction Site
When you file a workers’ compensation claim, you are typically prohibited from bringing a personal injury claim against your employer. However, if your employer has not provided safe premises, adequate safety gear or proper training, they may be liable for your damages. Regular maintenance and repair of tools and machinery are also vital to minimize the risk of injury. A worker’s compensation lawyer can assist you with your workers’ comp claim and determine whether or not it’s worth pursuing a separate personal injury claim.
Contact A Construction Site Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured on a construction site and need assistance with a workers’ compensation or personal injury claim, our experienced construction site accident attorneys will fight for your rights and help you get the maximum compensation you deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation at The Stanley Law Offices, contact us at 800-608-3333. Se habla español.
