Fatalities Caused by Construction Accidents
Constructions sites are full of potentially hazardous equipment and situations that make construction one of the most dangerous jobs in modern society. There are many parties responsible for ensuring that a worksite is safe for contractors and everyone nearby. Because many parties are involved in the creation of a structure, it can be difficult to assign fault when construction accidents do occur. The dedicated attorneys at Leav & Steinberg LLP can help determine who’s responsible and secure the compensation you deserve if a loved one has died in a construction accident.
Types of Construction Site Accidents
Construction accidents can take many forms. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) defines the “fatal four” accidents as falls, electrical exposure, incidents where the victim was struck by equipment or debris, and incidents where the victim was caught in between confined spaces or debris. Other types of construction accidents that often happen include:
- Unfinished structure
- Toxic exposure
- Unsafe equipment
- Equipment failures
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Scaffolding collapse
- Building collapse
- Elevator accidents
- Gas explosions
- Ladder accidents
- Forklift accidents
- Nail gun accidents
- Welding accidents
These are only a handful of the types of accidents that can occur at a construction site. Because of the dangerous nature of the job, any accident has the potential to be deadly.
Who's Responsible for Injuries or Deaths That Happen on a Construction Site?
If someone is involved in a construction site accident, several parties may be responsible. The property owner, general contractor, subcontractor, or manager may have created an unsafe work environment. If a construction worker is injured on the job, they may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. New York’s Labor Law sections 200, 240, and 241 mandate that owners and contractors must take reasonable steps to shield workers and create a safe workplace. The same parties can be held liable for injuries to nearby pedestrians. Accidents that involve passersby often occur due to debris, equipment, or structures striking the victim. Also, if the injury occurred from an equipment malfunction, it may be considered a product liability case, and the manufacturer may be held liable.
Can I Sue for Injuries or Wrongful Death?
If someone you loved was killed in a construction accident, you might be entitled to compensation. You should contact our attorneys as soon as possible to ensure that you file a claim before the statute of limitations expires. In New York State, the statute of limitations is 30 days for a workers’ compensation claim, three years for a personal injury claim, and two years for a wrongful death claim. You may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
Contact Leav & Steinberg
No matter what caused the accident, the loss of a loved one is devastating. Leav & Steinberg will help find the responsible party and hold them accountable for your loss. Whether your loved one was a construction worker or a victim in proximity to a construction site, we will dedicate ourselves to your case to find the negligent party and help you receive compensation. We have years of experience in personal injury and wrongful death cases in New York, and we have the results to show for it. Contact us at 212-766-5222 to schedule your free consultation.