The construction industry is notorious for being one of the most dangerous industries. Workers in this field, regardless of their specific job duties, face a lot of potential dangers and risks. This is due to dangerous working conditions, which include heights, heavy equipment, and even hazardous materials. At Jaroslawicz & Jaros, PLLC, our New York City injury attorneys fight on behalf of construction workers who suffer preventable injuries during construction accidents – as well as nearby pedestrians who suffer injuries near construction sites. Throughout the years, we’ve helped many construction accident victims injured in a variety of accidents. We handle all types of construction accidents, including the most common ones:
- Falls from Heights / Scaffolding – Construction workers are often required to work from heights, scaffolding, and ladders as part of their daily jobs. Naturally, this comes with an inherent risk. When construction companies fail to take reasonable steps to protect employees who work from heights, injured victims can suffer falls from poorly maintained scaffolding or ladders, or other hazards. Falls from heights account for roughly 39% of all construction accidents.
- Slips and Falls – Construction sites are littered with potential slip and trip hazards, including open holes, uneven ground, tools and materials, wet substances, and wires or cords, among other things. These hazards – if left unaddressed – can cause workers or even nearby pedestrians to slip, trip, and fall.
- Electrocution – Electrocution is a very common constriction accident. As buildings or objects are being constructed, it is not uncommon for wires or unfinished electrical systems to be left exposed.
- Falling Objects – Construction projects that involve heights will inherently pose the risk of falling objects. According to accident statistics from OHSA, falling object accidents commonly involve tools, materials, machinery, debris, and other various items found on construction sites.
- Caught-In Between Accidents – Caught-in/between accidents occur when construction workers become stuck or lodged in between objects that are very heavy or can’t be moved. These accidents often involve heavy machinery and structures that are still a work in progress.
- Fires / Explosion – Pipes, gas lines, electrical hazards, and other flammable or explosive materials on construction sites increase the risk of fires or explosions occurring. Construction companies have the responsibility of doing as much as possible to reduce these risks and protect workers.
- Auto/Transportation Accidents – There is a lot of vehicle traffic in and around construction sites, and these vehicles – sometimes being larger, heavy construction vehicles – can cause accidents that can injure workers.
If you have questions about your rights after a construction accident, contact our firm for a FREE case
