Construction sites pose many dangers to workers and innocent bystanders alike. Construction workers are subject to a high level of risk as they are often involved in potentially dangerous tasks such as lifting heavy objects, operating large machinery, and performing job duties at elevated heights. Still, proper protocol and safety practices can decrease a worker’s or bystander’s risk of injury. When someone causes a preventable construction accident through negligence, he or she may be liable for the victim’s injuries. When a construction accident causes harm to an employee, workers’ compensation laws will generally apply. There are, however, cases in which the worker can also obtain economic recovery from other parties who may be deemed liable such as companies that manufacture construction equipment that prove to be defective. When an innocent bystander suffers injury as the result of a construction accident, he or she may also be eligible to recover damages by filing a personal injury claim. Whether you’re a construction worker or merely a bystander who has suffered injury as the result of a construction accident, you may be eligible to receive economic recovery for your losses. Our attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and determine a course of action.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
There are innumerable ways in which a person can suffer injury at a construction site. Scaffolding accidents are the most common, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all construction accidents. Other common causes include: falls, electrocution, and improperly braced trenches. When attempting to determine the liability for injuries sustained in a construction accident, it helps to understand each party’s responsibilities at the site. In the case that a construction accident occurs, any of the following parties may bear total or partial responsibility:
- Site Owners
- General and Sub-Contractors
- Architects and Engineers
- Manufacturers of Construction Machinery or Equipment
- Insurers
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) compliance officer
Know Your Rights
If you have suffered an injury as the result of a construction accident, you are responsible for proving your case against the liable party(s). This usually requires the help of a qualified attorney. It is always wise to seek competent legal counsel after a construction accident to ensure that your rights are protected, especially since a statute of limitations applies to all workers’ compensation and personal injury cases. Contact us for a free consultation with a knowledgeable injury attorney.
Our Team
Locations We Serve
Our Personal Injury lawyers work throughout New York State and take on some of the most complex and high profile cases. With offices in Albany and Saratoga Springs, our location allows our attorneys easy access to all areas of the state.
If you’re an individual that’s been injured in the Capital Region or anywhere throughout New York State, we may be able to help you recover significant damages for your injuries.
To learn more about our legal services in your area, visit our location page.
Related Practice Areas
Testimonials
Pam Nichols was professional, but warm and easy to talk to. She put me at ease, especially when we ran into roadblocks that had to be tackled along the way. We couldn’t have been happier with the outcome and felt that we had the best possible representation!
Nancy B. Google Review
Steve Coffey is a lawyer’s lawyer. He brings into the courtroom absolutely amazing trial skills and will fight to the bitter end to get you everything you deserve. He will fight for you and give you his all. He is easily one of the best trial attorneys in the country, right here in our own backyard.
Rich D. Google Review
I want to share my extraordinary experience with O’Connell and Aronowitz, specifically Tom DiNovo and his staff. Anyone looking for an honest, hardworking attorney backed by a team working for your best interests, put your trust in this firm.