No job can match the inherent risks on a construction zone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, construction is the most dangerous industry in the country. In 2009 alone, more than 90,000 construction workers suffered injuries or illnesses.
Fortunately, there are laws in place to represent workers’ interests after a jobsite accident. If you were injured at work in New York, then contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP to discuss your options.
A New York City accident lawyer from our firm can help you avoid mistakes during the claims process. If you were denied workers’ compensation, then we may be able to help you appeal the decision. Call us today at 917-730-7151 to learn more.
Until then, read on to learn the top seven accidents on construction zones in New York:
- Electrocution
Building sites are often fraught with exposed wires and incomplete electrical systems. These can cause fatal injuries.
- Falling Objects
Falling objects are responsible for a major portion of construction site injuries, especially when they have several floors to gain momentum. Workers use sharp, heavy tools, and if one drops from a significant height, then it can damage the spine, neck and head – even if the victim is wearing the appropriate safety equipment.
- Slips and Falls
Construction workers have to navigate loose cords, muddy ground, materials, exposed wires, open holes, tools and other obstacles. A serious fall can cause fractures and other injuries – particularly to the neck and spine.
- Crushing
Many construction workers die when enormous vehicles or heavy equipment traps and crushes them. Survivors often have life-changing injuries.
Vehicle operators often fail to see workers behind them, especially when reversing. Sometimes, operators become distracted.
- Collapses
Buildings go through several “stages of stability” during construction. The risk of collapse is constant, particularly in the beginning, when workers use flimsy scaffolding to hold the building together.
A collapse can kill, crush or maim anyone inside. Survivors often face the worst injuries imaginable. There should be safeguards in place for potential collapses and special reinforcements to prevent them.
- Falling from High Places
Unfortunately, construction workers have to climb to frightening heights to perform their duties, relying on impromptu ladders and weak scaffolding to keep them safe. If they fall, an array of terrible injuries can happen. Falling from high can kill outright, or it can cause a serious disability.
- Burns
Construction sites typically contain enough flammable liquids, explosives, gas lines and naked electricity to make fire a major concern. The slightest spark can cause an explosion.
The majority of accidents on construction sites are entirely preventable. It is impossible to overstate the importance of providing construction workers with adequate training and investing in industry-standard safety protocols.
If you were injured in a construction site accident, then a New York City personal-injury attorney can guide you through the claims process. Call Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP today at 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation.