Although the rate of construction accidents and fatalities in New York decreased in 2021, the industry remains notoriously dangerous for workers. As the sector recovers following the pandemic, we can sadly expect to see a rise in the number of people injured or killed on sites throughout the city.
In June 2022 alone, 38 construction incidents were reported in NYC, while statistical analysis shows that one in four workplace deaths in New York occurs due to construction-related accidents. This highlights the inherent risks that construction workers face but it also raises questions about how we can protect construction professionals and make the industry safer.
Why Are There So Many Construction Accidents?
The nature of the industry means that construction accidents can occur frequently and easily. From tripping over loose cabling to malfunctioning equipment, there are a variety of reasons why someone can be hurt on a construction site. However, failure to implement appropriate safety protocols can also be a key factor in the number of incidents occurring.
According to OSHA, the four leading causes of construction-related fatalities are:
- Falls
- Electrocution
- Being caught in or between objects
- Being struck by an object
While this may explain how the incident occurred, further investigation shows that a significant number of construction-related accidents and fatalities cause traumatic brain injuries. If a worker falls from height, for example, the impact can cause substantial and life-changing injuries.
Protecting Construction Workers and Preventing Accidents
Using safety equipment can reduce the risk of accidents but it can also minimize the severity of a person’s injuries if an incident does occur. Instead of sustaining a serious brain injury, for example, wearing a hard hat could mean that a worker escapes with relatively minor and temporary injuries, such as sprains or grazes.
Furthermore, new designs and the latest technology mean that hard hats can provide more protection than ever for construction workers. With some studies showing that new hard hat designs can reduce the predicted risk of a concussion by 98%, there is great potential to make the construction industry safer.
Of course, these safety measures will only be effective if employers provide staff with the right equipment, which is why it’s vital for companies to be held to account when they fall short of their obligations.
Taking Legal Action After an NYC Construction Accident
If you’ve been affected by an accident on a construction site, you might be wondering whether you’re entitled to claim financial compensation. With help from an NYC construction accident attorney, you can determine whether a third party is liable for the incident and if so, take action against them directly.
Also, you may be able to claim workers’ compensation if your injuries required you to take time off work. Contact an attorney and see if you can increase the amount of compensation you’re able to access and ensure that safety failures are identified and rectified.