New York Construction Accident Attorney
Construction work carries inherent dangers. In fact, one in five work-related fatalities occurs within the construction industry, and nearly a quarter of construction workers will encounter work-related injuries during their careers. These accidents, often stemming from negligence, can result in life-altering injuries and substantial financial burdens. Victims may find themselves burdened with overwhelming medical bills and unable to return to their physically demanding jobs. If you or a loved one has been involved in a construction site accident, you understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take. Our dedicated team of legal professionals is here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us to speak with an experienced New York construction accident attorney today.
Common Construction Accidents
Construction sites are inherently dangerous places, and accidents can happen in various ways. Some of the most common construction accidents include:
Trips, Slips and Falls: Falling accidents are a leading cause of construction site injuries. Whether it’s a slip from scaffolding, a ladder, or a roof, the consequences can be devastating.
Machinery Accidents: Heavy machinery, such as cranes and forklifts, can lead to serious accidents if not operated properly or if safety protocols are neglected.
Electrocutions: Construction sites often involve electrical work, and accidents involving electrocutions can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.
Falling Objects: Tools, materials, or debris falling from heights can strike workers below, causing head injuries, fractures, and other severe injuries.
Trench Collapses: Workers involved in excavation work are at risk of being trapped in trench collapses, which can result in injuries or fatalities.
Common Construction Injuries
Construction accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, including:
Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries can occur from falls or being struck by objects, leading to long-term consequences.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or other life-altering conditions, impacting your quality of life.
Broken Bones: Fractures and broken bones are common in construction accidents and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Burns and Electrocutions: Electrical accidents can cause severe burns, which may necessitate skin grafts and ongoing medical care.
Internal Injuries: Accidents involving machinery or falling objects can lead to internal injuries, which may not always be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Who Is Responsible For My Construction Accident?
Determining liability in construction accidents can be complex. Potentially liable parties may include:
Employers: Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment and to ensure that workers receive proper training and equipment.
Contractors and Subcontractors: Contractors and subcontractors may be held accountable if their negligence or actions contributed to the accident.
Equipment Manufacturers: If faulty equipment played a role in the accident, the manufacturer may bear some responsibility.
Property Owners: Property owners may be liable if their negligence in maintaining a safe premises contributed to the accident.
Our experienced team at Marc L. Schwartz, P.C. will investigate your case thoroughly to identify all responsible parties and build a strong legal strategy on your behalf.
What Types of Insurance Are Available to Protect Workers?
The construction industry involves various risks, and insurance plays a crucial role in protecting both workers and businesses. Here are some of the key types of insurance commonly associated with construction:
Workers’ Compensation: Workers’ Compensation is a mandatory insurance coverage that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill while on the job. In the construction industry, where accidents are more common, this insurance is especially important. Workers’ compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation, and even survivor benefits in the tragic event of a work-related fatality. It ensures that injured workers receive the necessary care and financial support without the need for a lawsuit against their employer.
Employer’s Liability: Employer’s Liability Insurance is often paired with workers’ compensation coverage. While workers’ compensation protects employees, employer’s liability insurance safeguards employers against lawsuits filed by injured workers who believe their injuries resulted from employer negligence. This type of insurance covers legal costs and settlements in such cases.
Commercial General Liability: Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance provides coverage for third-party bodily injury or property damage claims that arise due to construction activities. It is essential for contractors, as it helps protect against claims made by individuals not employed by the company, such as bystanders or property owners. CGL policies typically cover legal defense costs and any awarded damages.
Property Liability: Property Liability Insurance is designed to protect against damage to property that occurs during construction projects. It covers damage to structures, buildings, or other property that may be affected by construction activities. Property owners and contractors often hold this type of insurance to ensure that potential damages are covered.
Products Liability: For manufacturers of construction materials and equipment, Products Liability Insurance is critical. This insurance safeguards against claims related to defects in the products they produce or supply. In the construction industry, where many different materials and equipment are used, ensuring that products are safe and reliable is paramount. Products liability insurance helps manufacturers cover the costs associated with legal defense and any compensation awarded to injured parties.
Understanding these different types of insurance in the construction industry is essential for both workers and businesses. It helps ensure that individuals are protected in case of accidents and that companies are shielded from the financial ramifications of lawsuits and property damage. If you’ve been involved in a construction accident, an experienced New York construction accident attorney Marc L. Schwartz, P.C. can help determine which insurance policies may apply to your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
What To Do After A Construction Accident
In the aftermath of a construction site accident, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your rights and build a strong legal case:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
Report the Accident: Report the accident to your supervisor or employer and ensure it is properly documented.
Gather Evidence: Collect evidence at the accident scene, including photographs, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage.
Consult an Attorney: Contact Marc L. Schwartz, P.C. as soon as possible. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.
Don’t Sign Anything: Avoid signing any documents or providing statements to insurance companies without consulting with your attorney first.
Document Your Injuries: Keep detailed records of your injuries, treatments, and related expenses.
Statute of Limitations
In New York, there is a time limit within which you must file a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations for construction accidents can vary depending on the circumstances. The statute of limitations for construction accidents in New York State only extends three years from the accident date; however, this time limit may be extended if the victim of a construction accident is under 18 years of age. Additionally, the statute of limitations for construction accidents involving wrongful death extends two years from the date of the victim’s death. It is crucial that you contact an experienced New York construction accident attorney and file your claim before the statute of limitations expires.
Contact Marc L. Schwartz, P.C.
If you or a loved one has suffered a construction site accident in New York, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact Marc L. Schwartz, P.C., your trusted New York construction accident attorney, for a free consultation. With our experienced team by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to pursuing the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate – contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life after a construction site accident.
Let Marc L. Schwartz, P.C. Handle Your Claim
If you or someone you love has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to seek justice. Let Marc L. Schwartz fight for you. Time is of the essence in these types of cases, so don’t delay. Take action now and get the help you deserve.
