New York Falling Object Injury Lawyers

Construction sites are by nature dangerous, but there are certain factors that increase that inherent hazard. One of the leading causes of construction-related deaths is being struck by objects. About 75 percent of struck-by fatalities involve heavy equipment used in construction work such as trucks or cranes. According to Department of Labor statistics, the number of workers fatally struck by a vehicle was at a seven-year high in 1998.

There are many different ways by which these types of accidents can occur:

Struck by vehicles: It is absolutely important for construction workers or contractors to observe basic vehicle safety practices at their work sites. Sadly, these safety measures are not taken seriously all the time, and tragically workers sometimes pay for it with their lives. When rules are not observed workers risk being pinned between construction vehicles and walls, struck by swinging backhoes, crushed beneath overturned vehicles or similar accidents. Construction workers who are on the job near highways or busy streets risk being struck by passing vehicles as well.

Falling or flying objects: When workers are standing or working beneath cranes or scaffolds, they risk being hit by falling objects. There is also danger from flying objects when activities such as pushing, pulling, drilling, prying or the use of power tools cause objects to become airborne. Injuries can range from minor cuts to concussions, blindness or death. Such injuries may be prevented or minimized by using safety equipment such as hard hats and storing and using equipment appropriately.

Constructing walls: Building concrete or masonry walls could be hazardous because of tremendous loads that need to be supported. There is the danger of major accidents or even death when lifting equipment is used to position heavy slabs and walls.

These types of injuries could be catastrophic or even fatal because of the heavy machinery, materials and equipment that are almost always used in construction work. The debilitating nature of the injuries often lead to permanent injuries that can keep you away from work for the rest of your life.

If your or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident or has been struck by a falling or flying object at a construction site, you need an experienced New York personal injury attorney on your side, investigating your case and fighting for your rights. Call Wingate, Russotti and Shapiro to schedule your free consultation. You can expect a high level of customer service and personal attention from our firm. Call us today to discuss your case.