Common Causes of Injuries at Construction Sites

 

It’s well established that construction sites are dangerous and that injuries are common, but inquiry into what’s causing these injuries can be helpful in reducing their frequency and severity. The top NYC construction accident lawyers have the experience and know how to assess whether a claim is limited to workers compensation or can be litigated to achieve a much higher amount of compensation. That’s why it’s important to speak to the best Forest Hills personal injury lawyers after a construction accident to make sure that you’re not leaving money on the table. 

Several factors contribute to the causes of injuries at construction sites. Here are some of the primary causes:

1. Falls: Falls from heights, such as scaffolding, ladders, or roofs, are a leading cause of injuries in construction. Factors that contribute to falls include inadequate fall protection systems, lack of guardrails or safety nets, unstable working surfaces, improper use of ladders, and failure to use personal fall arrest systems. Top construction accident lawyers know that some of these types of accidents are actionable under New York’s Scaffold Law, allowing workers to collect very large sums.
2. Struck-by Accidents: Struck-by accidents occur when workers are hit by objects or equipment. This can happen due to falling tools, materials, or being struck by vehicles or mobile equipment. Causes include inadequate storage or stacking of materials, failure to secure tools or equipment properly, or lack of signaling or warning systems. The best Forest Hills personal injury lawyers can also assess whether these accidents meet the requirements of the Scaffold Law.
3. Caught-in or Between Accidents: These accidents involve workers getting caught, crushed, or trapped between objects or machinery. Common causes include working in excavations or trenches without proper shoring or support, working near heavy machinery or equipment without adequate clearance, or being caught by moving parts of machinery. If this machinery is owned or operated by somebody other than your employer, you may have a third party claim.
4. Contact with Machinery: Construction sites use various types of machinery and equipment, including power tools, heavy machinery, and vehicles. Accidents can occur when workers come into contact with moving parts, rotating equipment, or unguarded machinery. Causes can include lack of machine guarding, inadequate training, improper use of equipment, or mechanical failures.
5. Electrical Hazards: Construction sites involve electrical systems and equipment, which pose the risk of electrical accidents. Contact with live wires, exposed electrical parts, or faulty equipment can lead to electrical shocks, burns, or electrocution. Causes include inadequate grounding, improper wiring, or failure to follow electrical safety procedures.
6. Overexertion and Musculoskeletal Strains: Construction work often involves physical labor, repetitive tasks, and lifting heavy objects. Overexertion, improper lifting techniques, or lack of ergonomics can result in musculoskeletal strains, sprains, or injuries. Factors contributing to these injuries include inadequate training, fatigue, and lack of proper lifting equipment.
7. Unsafe Working Conditions: Unsafe conditions in construction sites can lead to various injuries. These may include inadequate lighting, poor housekeeping, lack of proper signage or warnings, hazardous materials or substances, or failure to follow safety protocols and standards.
8. Lack of Training and Safety Procedures: Insufficient training and failure to implement proper safety procedures can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Inadequate knowledge of safety protocols, lack of awareness of potential hazards, or failure to provide necessary training contribute to construction site injuries.

It's important for employers, contractors, and workers to prioritize safety and adhere to proper safety protocols, including thorough training, hazard assessments, appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and regular inspections to minimize the risk of injuries at construction sites. If you have been injured in a construction accident, it’s important to contact a top NYC construction accident lawyer to evaluate your case. Call Wittenstein & Wittenstein at 718-261-8114 for a free consultation.