Smithtown may still have a small town feel, but it’s rapidly growing and developing. With so much constant development, construction sites are common around the town. Though they can be a nuisance, construction sites are typically safe, thanks to the many rules and regulations set in place by state and federal administrations. Unfortunately, these safety protocols aren’t enough, or they are ignored. In these instances, construction workers and others on the site can be injured, sometimes killed. In these cases, workers and their families may be entitled to damages. Workers’ compensation may cover many of your expenses, but you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against other parties who were involved in your injury. The Smithtown construction site accident lawyers at Carner & DeVita have been helping workers in our local community get the compensation they deserve for over 60 years. We know how tricky workers’ compensation can be, not to mention filing a lawsuit against others who may have had a hand in your injury. For a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced construction site accident attorney in Smithtown, call us at 631-543-7070 or contact us online today.
The Most Common Construction Site Injuries in New York
Every year, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes a list of the deadliest construction accidents. In 2017, there were 971 deaths in the construction industry, and thousands more non-fatal injuries. The OSHA’s so-called “Fatal Four” in 2017 included:
- Falls from height – 381 deaths
- Struck by objects – 80 deaths
- Electrocutions – 71 deaths
- Caught-in/between machinery – 50 deaths
Many of these deaths were avoidable. For instance, proper protection equipment like harnesses and hard hats could have prevented falls and fatally being struck by an object. However, if this equipment isn’t provided, or it malfunctions, workers may be entitled to compensation.
Getting Compensation for Your Construction Site Injuries
In general, construction workers are covered by workers’ compensation laws. That means if you were injured on the construction site in an accident, you may be eligible for benefits from workers’ comp. However, there are a variety of reasons why your claim may be denied, such as if the insurance company believes you weren’t following safety procedures. If your claim is denied, our Long Island personal injury attorneys may be able to help you file an appeal for benefits. In addition, there are some instances in which you may be able to file a third party claim. These claims are separate from workers’ compensation claims, and are against those who may have had a role in your injury. For example, if foreman on the site or your employer doesn’t provide proper safety gear, they may be held liable in a lawsuit. Or, if a new harness (for instance) breaks and you fall because of it, you may be able to sue the harness manufacturer.
Speak to a Smithtown Construction Site Accident Lawyer Today
Trying to figure out your legal rights after a construction site accident can be difficult. Between filling out paperwork, recovering from your injuries and trying to move forward with your life, dealing with the legal matters associated with your case may be overwhelming. The good news is, our experienced attorneys are here to help you. The Smithtown construction site accident lawyers at Carner & DeVita know what it takes to help injured workers get the compensation they deserve. We can help you work through the workers’ compensation appeals process if needed, and we can also help you file a third-party lawsuit. We’ll evaluate your case at no cost to you to help you determine your best legal steps. Contact us online today or call us at 631-543-7070 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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