Construction work is among the most hazardous of all occupations, with some of the highest workplace injury rates. Dangerous tools, heavy machinery, risky work areas, hazardous chemicals and electricity are just a few of the many dangers of construction work that can cause multiple injuries, from broken bones and burns to brain injuries and limb loss. Getting hurt on the job is not only painful but can quickly overwhelm you and your family with multiple financial and personal hardships.
Construction industries implement safety standards and regulations as per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) with the main goal of worker safety. But workplace accidents continue to occur, either through someone’s negligence or slipshod working conditions, leading to serious personal injuries. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that 10% of construction workers suffer at least one accident each year, and job site fatalities are highest among construction workers.
Certainly, those working in construction know they have a higher chance of suffering accident or injury than people working behind a desk. Still, construction workers have a right to workplace safety and should not have to fear for their lives each time they step on the job site.
Worker’s compensation was created to address this right and provide coverage for employees if they should be injured on the job. Sadly, workers compensation benefits are often not enough to cover the high costs of medical bills, lost wages, and disabilities.
What should an injured worker do? A smart move is to call a knowledgeable personal injury attorney like Mark Panzavecchia who can help you maximize available compensation for your injuries. If your employer was negligent, or if your work environment contributed to your injury, your personal injury attorney knows how to ensure your case is successful. If your injuries are severe, or you suffer a disability, you will no doubt be out of work for an extended period of time. You and your family have needs that can no longer be covered by your paycheck. Getting the maximum compensation for your injuries is vital.
Some of the factors your attorney will investigate include:
- Whether the company, supervisor, coworker, or third party had a responsibility to act in a practical and safe way in terms of your work environment
- Whether the company or person failed to perform that responsibility and is therefore negligent
- The extent of your injuries resulting from the negligence
Could your accident have been avoided? Was your injury caused by unsafe work conditions or a similar type of negligence? If so, you may have the foundation of a personal injury claim. If your injury happened in New York City or anywhere in New York, please call Mark Panzavecchia today to find out your rights.