Common Causes of Construction Accidents in New York
Construction work is essential for New York’s growth and infrastructure, but it remains one of the most dangerous industries in the state. From skyscrapers in Manhattan to residential projects in the Hudson Valley, construction workers face numerous hazards daily. Despite stringent safety regulations, construction accidents continue to occur, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
Understanding the common causes of construction accidents in New York can help raise awareness and potentially prevent future incidents. Below, we delve into the most frequent factors contributing to these accidents. If you have been injured in a construction accident in the Hudson Valley, contact Rusk, Wadlin, Heppner & Martuscello, LLP, to speak with an experienced and successful Kingston construction site accident lawyer.
1. Falls from Heights
Falls are the leading cause of construction-related fatalities. Workers often perform tasks on ladders, scaffolds, roofs, or elevated platforms, putting them at risk of falling from significant heights. The lack of proper fall protection equipment, such as harnesses or guardrails, often contributes to these incidents.
New York’s Scaffold Law (Labor Law § 240) provides specific protections for workers injured in falls from heights. Property owners and contractors can be held strictly liable if they fail to provide adequate safety measures.
2. Struck-by Accidents
Construction sites are bustling environments where heavy machinery, tools, and materials are constantly in motion. Struck-by accidents occur when a worker is hit by falling objects, swinging equipment, or vehicles like cranes and forklifts.
Inadequate training, poorly secured materials, and failure to enforce safety protocols often lead to these accidents. Even a small object falling from a height can cause fatal or life-altering injuries.
3. Electrocutions
Construction workers frequently work near power lines, exposed wiring, and electrical systems. Electrocutions occur when workers come into contact with live wires or improperly grounded equipment.
Electrocution accidents are particularly dangerous because they can result in severe burns, nerve damage, or death. Employers must ensure proper grounding, provide insulated tools, and train workers on electrical safety to reduce these risks.
4. Slips, Trips, and Falls
Uneven surfaces, misplaced tools, wet floors, and unmarked hazards contribute to slips, trips, and falls on construction sites. These accidents can cause injuries ranging from sprains and fractures to more severe head or spinal injuries.
Employers are required to maintain clean and organized work areas and provide warning signs for any potential hazards.
5. Machinery Accidents
Heavy machinery like bulldozers, backhoes, and cranes is essential for construction work but can also be a source of severe accidents. Workers may be caught in, struck by, or crushed under malfunctioning or improperly operated equipment.
Regular maintenance, safety training, and proper supervision are critical to preventing machinery-related accidents.
6. Exposure to Toxic Substances
Construction workers often handle hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, and chemicals used in paints and solvents. Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory illnesses, skin conditions, or even long-term diseases like mesothelioma.
Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure proper ventilation and handling procedures to protect workers from these risks.
7. Collapses of Trenches or Structures
Excavation work is a common part of construction projects, but poorly designed or unsupported trenches can collapse, burying workers under tons of soil. Similarly, structural collapses during demolition or construction can lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Employers must follow OSHA regulations for trenching and structural support to ensure worker safety.
New York Laws Protecting Construction Workers
New York has some of the strongest labor laws in the country to protect construction workers:
- Labor Law § 240 (Scaffold Law): Requires adequate protection for workers involved in elevation-related tasks.
- Labor Law § 241(6): Mandates compliance with specific safety rules outlined in New York’s Industrial Code.
- Labor Law § 200: Requires employers to maintain safe worksites and ensure proper training.
These laws allow injured workers to seek compensation from property owners, contractors, or other responsible parties in addition to their workers’ compensation benefits.
What to Do After a Construction Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety should always come first.
- Report the Incident: Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible.
- Document the Scene: Take photos, gather witness information, and preserve evidence.
- Contact an Experienced Attorney: Construction accident claims can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Rusk, Wadlin, Heppner & Martuscello, LLP Can Help
At Rusk, Wadlin, Heppner & Martuscello, LLP, we understand the devastating impact a construction accident can have on your life. Our experienced personal injury attorneys have been helping injured workers in Kingston, Ulster County, and the Hudson Valley for decades.
We will fight to hold negligent parties accountable and help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you’ve been injured on a construction site, contact us today for a free consultation. Call 845-331-4100 in Kingston, 845-236-4411 in Marlboro, or 8900-566-4101 toll-free throughout the Hudson Valley.
For skilled and compassionate legal representation, trust the team at Rusk, Wadlin, Heppner & Martuscello, LLP to protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.
