When people think of how construction workers become seriously injured, they probably imagine those brave workers welding on skyscrapers. In reality, however, shorter buildings actually pose a bigger threat to construction workers. The reason why is simple: Buildings under 10 stories are subject to fewer safety laws and regulations.
In fact, 30 out of 40 construction deaths between the years of 2010 to 2015 happened at buildings that were fewer than 10 stories tall. Construction employers, not required by law to adhere to the same safety measures as skyscrapers, may neglect safety requirements.
All too often, the decision to place profit above worker safety costs the workers far more than the construction employers. However, New York City is looking to implement additional regulations that could protect construction workers who are working on shorter buildings.
Construction accidents can be devastating for workers
Construction site injuries can be severe. Injuries can include broken bones, spinal injuries, brain damage, and other forms of severe trauma, including death. Falls, being struck by falling equipment and large machinery all pose substantial risks to construction worker safety, particularly if your employer isn't complying with safety regulations. After an accident at work, you may face temporary or permanent loss of your wages. If you provided the primary income for your family, that can be devastating.
Whether the loss of income is permanent or temporary when you combine that with the expenses incurred from trauma care, surgery and physical therapy, it can ruin your future. You owe it to yourself and your family to speak with an attorney who can help you find the best way forward. In some cases, that may be negotiating a better settlement from insurers. In others, it may include filing a civil lawsuit.
An attorney can help if you've been hurt
Injuries or fatalities on construction sites are far too common in New York. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury as the result of a construction site accident, you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible. You should also document your memory of what happened before, during, and after the accident. An attorney can help determine if there were inadequate safety measures in place and if your employer may have violated the law. He or she can help you research whether or not your employer has had a history of workplace safety violations, which could indicate a pattern of behavior.
You shouldn't have to face your serious construction injuries alone. Working with an attorney means that you can focus on getting better instead of worrying about your accumulating medical bills.