New York City is famous for its awe-inspiring skyscrapers and attention to detail throughout the city. Construction workers have been building up New York City since the late 1800s. Even today, you will hard-pressed to turn a corner in the city and not see construction somewhere. Construction workers are consistently improving buildings, sidewalks, roads, etc. This necessary job also comes with a considerable chance of danger. Workers handle serious tools and put themselves potentially hazardous situations. Because of this, it is possible for them to become gravely injured while on the job. When this happens, construction workers are entitled to receiving certain benefits under workers’ compensation laws. It is important to have a skilled attorney at your side if you have been injured on the job in a construction accident.
Types of Accidents
Construction jobs are considered to be some of the most dangerous jobs in the United States. These individuals are exposed to dangerous work sites that can be very harmful if something were to go wrong. Construction workers trust that the tools and equipment they are being given are safe to use. While many construction companies take the right precautions in ensuring their employee’s safety, accidents can still happen. Some common accidents that can happen on the job may include:
- Dangerous falls
- Nail gun accidents
- Ladder accidents
- Scaffolding accidents
- Falling debris
- Electrocutions
- Explosions
- Collapsing buildings
- Unsafe property conditions
- Supervisor negligence
Workers’ Compensation
Individuals who have been injured on the job during a construction accident are entitled to financial compensation for their medical bills and lost wages as a result of the accident. Workers’ compensation is insurance that the majority of employers are required to carry for their employees in case of injuries on work sites. If a construction worker wishes to receive workers’ compensation benefits, they must let their employer know within 30 days of the accident. In addition to this, the employee has 2 years from the date of the accident to file a workers’ compensation claim. If they do not do so within the given time limit, they may lose the chance to collect these benefits.
It is important to note that if a construction worker accepts these benefits, they are not able to take legal action against their employer for their injuries.
Third Party Lawsuits
Even though a worker receiving workers’ compensation is not able to pursue legal action against their employer, they may be able to against another party if they are responsible for their injury. The injured worker may do so if they can prove that this party knew of, or should have reasonably known about, the hazardous condition that caused the injury. This requires them to satisfy the burden of proof with evidence that proves so.
Contact our Firm
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident and wishes to seek legal counsel, contact the Law Offices of Mark L. Bodner, P.C. today.
At Mark L. Bodner, P.C., we are committed to guiding clients through each step of the medical malpractice claims process. Our firm understands how traumatic it can be when you become a victim of medical malpractice. We are prepared to fight on your behalf to help you recover a maximum compensation award. Contact our firm today.