Construction site safety violations are incredibly common in New York and greatly contribute to accidents and injuries. Because of this, if you’re a construction worker in New York, you may want to file a construction accident lawsuit. Keep reading to find out what compensation you may be entitled to if you file an unsafe job site claim with the help of a construction worker injury lawyer.
Fall Protection Violations
Falls on construction sites are incredibly common, which is why safety standards must be in place. If these standards aren’t met, this can lead to significant injuries.
Examples of fall protection violations include things like missing fall arrest systems, missing guard rails, unsafe scaffolding, etc.
Improper Use of Equipment
Construction equipment also poses a serious risk to construction site workers, especially if it isn’t used correctly. Here are some examples of how the improper use of construction site equipment can violate OSHA safety standards and increase the risk of accidents:
- Defective machinery
- Missing safety inspections
- Missing machine guarding
- Inadequate training
- Improper lockout/tag out procedures
Electrical Safety Violations
As you near the end of a construction project, electrical safety violations can become an issue. This can happen if there is exposed wiring, increasing the risk of electrocution. Or, the wiring may be faulty, which can result in overheating and potential fires.
Lack of Training
Construction companies have training requirements that help to ensure all workers are capable of doing certain tasks and running construction equipment. But if construction companies do not follow these OSHA standards, this can greatly increase the risk of construction site accidents.
Legal Options For Construction Workers
Construction workers who are the victims of construction site safety violations are usually entitled to receive compensation. This is because there are certain protections in place that can help you get economic and non-economic damages for your injuries.
For the vast majority of work-related accidents in New York, you can apply for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation can help you cover the cost of your injuries and time off work, both short-term and long-term.
You may also have the right to file a third-party lawsuit if a third party held responsibility for the accident. Keep in mind that you usually cannot file a lawsuit directly against your employer as well as file for workers’ compensation.
However, before you pursue any legal action, you should first get the help of a New York construction injury attorney. An attorney can help you better understand what your rights are and the best way to receive the compensation you need.
Get In Touch With a New York Construction Injury Attorney
Construction site violations pose a serious risk to workers, creating construction site hazards that should never be there. That is why OSHA has specific rules and regulations in place to prevent accidents and better protect construction workers.
So, if you have been the victim of an unsafe construction site or fall protection violation, you need to get representation from a construction worker injury lawyer before you file your claim.
If you are ready to move forward with your construction accident lawsuit, contact us today at Gash & Associates, P.C., in New York, at 914-328-8800 for a free consultation.