Understanding Types of Construction Accidents: Guide for New York Workers

May 8, 2024

Are you a construction worker in New York State? Whether you’re laying bricks in Brooklyn or erecting skyscrapers in Manhattan, construction sites can be hazardous places. The private construction industry sector had the highest number of fatalities in New York City, with falls, slips, and trips resulting in 15 of the 23 fatalities in the industry.

Let’s dive into the different types of construction accidents that can occur and what you should do if you find yourself injured on the job.

  1. Falls from Heights:
    One of the most common types of construction accidents is falls from heights. Whether it’s from a scaffold, ladder, or roof, falling from a significant height can result in severe injuries or even death. These accidents often occur due to inadequate fall protection, unstable working surfaces, or improper use of equipment. If you’ve been injured in a fall from heights accident, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified personal injury attorney to understand your rights under workers’ compensation laws in New York.
  2. Struck by Objects:
    Construction sites are bustling with activity, and workers are often surrounded by heavy machinery, tools, and materials. As a result, accidents involving workers being struck by objects are not uncommon. Whether it’s a falling tool, a piece of equipment, or debris from demolition work, being struck by objects can cause serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, or internal organ damage. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation claims and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
  3. Electrocution:
    With the extensive use of electrical equipment and wiring on construction sites, the risk of electrocution is a constant concern for workers. Contact with live wires, faulty equipment, or improper grounding can result in severe electrical burns, cardiac arrest, or even death. If you’ve suffered an electrocution injury on a construction site, it’s essential to document the incident, seek medical attention, and consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can help you understand your legal options for pursuing compensation.
  4. Caught in/Between Accidents:
    Construction machinery and equipment pose significant risks to workers, especially when proper safety protocols are not followed. Accidents involving workers being caught in or between heavy machinery, equipment, or structures can lead to crush injuries, traumatic amputations, or suffocation. Our team at Bergman, Bergman, Fields & Lamonsoff, LLP, has extensive experience representing construction workers who have been injured or caught in/between accidents and can provide the legal guidance and support you need to recover fair compensation for your injuries.
  5. Scaffolding Accidents:
    Scaffolding is a standard feature on construction sites, providing workers access to elevated work areas. However, scaffolding can collapse if not erected or maintained correctly, leading to severe injuries for workers above or below. Scaffold accidents can result from inadequate training, defective equipment, or negligence by the employer or contractor. If you’ve been injured in a scaffolding accident, our team of top personal injury attorneys can help you hold responsible parties accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve.
  6. Trips and Falls on Debris or Dangerous Openings
    Construction sites are often littered with debris, uneven surfaces, and hazardous openings or holes, presenting a significant risk for trips and falls. Workers may stumble over scattered materials, uneven terrain, or unmarked floor openings, leading to serious injuries such as fractures, sprains, or head trauma. When faced with such incidents, injured workers must seek immediate legal counsel from experienced personal injury attorneys who specializes in construction accidents. They can ensure that victims receive the guidance and representation needed to navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation claims and pursue the compensation they rightfully deserve.

In conclusion, construction accidents can devastate workers and their families. If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in New York State, it’s essential to seek legal representation from experienced personal injury attorneys who understand the complexities of workers’ compensation laws.

At Bergman, Bergman, Fields & Lamonsoff, LLP, we understand the risks of working in the construction industry. We’re dedicated to helping injured construction workers navigate the legal process and recover the compensation they deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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