If you work in the construction industry, you know how dangerous construction sites are. It is not surprising to see accidents as an ordinary and expected part of your job. Perhaps the scariest fact about being a construction worker is not knowing whether you will be the next victim. While no one can say when – or if – an accident will happen to you, it is essential to be prepared in advance.
At The Carrion Law Firm, we know how essential being prepared is. That is the main reason why we dedicate our legal practice to serving the victims in construction accidents. Call our law offices and schedule your initial appointment with The Carrion Law Firm. Our phone number is (718) 841-0083.
Top Causes of Construction Accidents in Staten Island
No worker expects to get injured at a construction site. Unfortunately, the dangers associated with the construction industry commonly lead to many accidents. According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), there are four leading causes of construction accidents in the US: falls from heights, being struck by objects, electrocutions, and being caught between objects. We discuss each of these causes below.
Falling from Heights
Falling from heights is a widespread occurrence among construction workers. These accidents often happen due to unprotected handrails, unsecured doors, and unrepaired holes in the floor. Ensuring that a construction site is free from these and other hazards is paramount to making sure all workers are safe at the workplace. Nevertheless, injured workers check into hospitals to get treatment after a severe injury caused by falling from heights. Regardless of the extent of your injury, you might be entitled to compensation.
Being Struck by Objects
Construction workers are constantly surrounded by all sorts of vehicles, heavy materials, and equipment. Over the years, thousands of workers have been seriously injured or have lost their lives after being struck by a truck, crane, or falling object at a construction site. Construction sites must abide by strict safety rules and regulations. However, not all construction company owners or supervisors pay close attention to all of the details involved in their employees’ safety. A skilled Staten Island construction accident attorney may be your best chance at getting compensation.
Electrocution
Many construction workers come into contact with exposed electrical wires, faulty fuse boxes, or materials conducting electricity. Power lines have become one of the most common fatal causes of electrocutions in construction sites. This is not a secret to anyone in the industry, yet many people disregard this hazard. Additionally, all construction sites must have adequate grounding. This means all workers must be protected against ground-fault. Often, ground-fault can lead to severe explosions, burns, and even electrocutions. In other cases, faulty equipment has led to fatal accidents.
Getting Caught Between Objects
Getting caught or “trenched” is common in construction sites. This term encompasses many different scenarios where a construction worker can end up injured. For instance, this type of accident includes circumstances where a person is pinched, squeezed, or compressed. Getting caught between objects can happen because of lack of proper supervision, lack of appropriate safety equipment, or another person’s negligence.
Steps to Take After a Construction Accident in Staten Island
If you were involved in an accident on a construction site in Staten Island, every step you take after your incident can impact your potential compensation. For this reason, all injured workers must act proactively to avoid facing setbacks with their claims. The first thing you should do immediately after your accidental injury is to get medical assistance. You may need to follow certain rules to get your treatment, especially if you are covered under the state’s workers’ compensation. Regardless, your safety should be your primary concern.
Be sure to report your accident to your employer. You may be required to present written notification to your employer no later than thirty days from your accident. Meeting this requirement can help you get compensation for your injuries.
Write the names of any witnesses to your accident. Keep in mind that you will need to provide evidence of your claim if you wish to get compensation. Witnesses can help corroborate the facts surrounding your case and strengthen the validity of your claim.
It is essential to hire an experienced Staten Island construction accident attorney. Your lawyer may provide you with the experience, knowledge, and skill to handle your case adequately. Whether you are fighting for compensation through workers’ compensation or taking your case to court, an attorney is crucial.
Compensation for Construction Accident Claims in Staten Island
As we mentioned, you may have access to monetary compensation for your construction accident in Staten Island. Typically, the workers’ compensation system allows injured workers to get compensation while they are out of their work. Additionally, it can cover medical expenses and other economic losses. However, you will not be able to obtain maximum compensation because damages for any emotional, psychological, or mental injuries are blocked.
These damages might only be recoverable through a personal injury lawsuit. In many cases, the compensation for your mental anguish and other non-economic injuries, along with any other economic losses, can provide you with a better chance at higher compensation. However, to achieve your case’s maximum potential, it is essential to hire an experienced Staten Island construction accident lawyer. Certain exceptions to the workers’ compensation ban on injury lawsuits might allow us to file a lawsuit to seek additional compensation above and beyond what workers’ compensation might offer you. The Carrion Law Firm is ready to assist you and fight tirelessly against those responsible for your accident.
Our Lawyers Can Handle Your Construction Accident Claim in Staten Island
When you visit The Carrion Law Firm, you will get our undivided attention. Our attorneys will dedicate their knowledge, effort, and resources to guiding you and helping you along the way. We treat all of our clients with the respect they deserve and work hard to get their compensation. You should not feel like all the odds are stacked against you. There is always room to fight for the justice you and your loved ones deserve. Contact our New York City construction accident lawyers today and learn how we can be your number one legal resource. Our phone number is (718) 841-0083.