Construction Injury Rates Rise: Are You Next?
The recent rise in NYC's construction injury rates is alarming. The number of fatalities due to construction accidents has been on the rise for the New York City area, according to a prominent New York construction injury attorney. If you are employed by a construction company and are concerned about work site safety, you are not alone, and there is help.
In the event you are hurt on the job, or even if you believe the possibility is there, you can seek legal counsel. You—and possibly even your coworkers—may be eligible for a cash settlement, as well as possible workers compensation benefits.
Prevention is the Key
According to the Department of Buildings in the City of New York, contractor error and material failure are cited as two of the leading causes of worker falls at NYC building construction sites. Worker falls account for at least 42% of all accidents that are construction related.
Due to disturbing construction injury rates and the notable rise in fatality rate, safety precautions and protocol must be followed more strictly. This is true both for the employer and supervisors as well as the individual workers.
Do not allow anyone—especially yourself—to fail to follow procedure or take chances. If you see anything taking place that could pose a threat to the safety of your coworkers, the public, or yourself, report it immediately to a supervisor. If nothing is done, you may need to take the situation to a lawyer.
The Law Is On Your Side
The legal system of New York State and the United States takes the rise in construction injury rates very seriously, and there are many statutes that protect you. In fact, the United States Department of Labor has a multitude of regulations that must be followed under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Contact a qualified attorney who is familiar with these standards as well as one who has familiarity with construction injury rates and personal injury law.
Knowledge Is Power
Do not wait until an injury has occurred to become informed. However, if you are aware of misconduct or failure to adhere to the law by an employer, or if you or someone you know has experienced a construction related personal injury, do not hesitate to seek the guidance of a personal injury law firm specializing in construction accidents.
