Construction workers, whether in Rochester or elsewhere, have one of the most dangerous jobs. Despite the tough labor laws put in place in the state that require employers to provide safe working conditions, dozens of construction workers are killed on these construction sites. Thousands more will end up suffering from serious injuries.
Unfortunately, employers will sometimes cut corners and this can ultimately put the workers in danger. If you’re injured in this situation, you may have grounds to seek help from a Rochester construction accident lawyer.
If you’ve been hurt on a construction site, trying to receive compensation for your injuries is vital. You may be entitled to compensation and this can help you cover the expenses that may become a lot to handle. Trust in an attorney from Brown Chiari LLP to help with this case.
There are a number of construction accidents that can happen on a job site. Some are more common than others. For example, falls are over 20 percent of construction site accidents. Falling from high areas, off of ladders, and down into areas is common. Even those passing the site are at risk for falls.
Falling objects from scaffolding or other higher areas are common. They can hit other Rochester workers or those passing the construction site. This can be especially dangerous when the item falling is sharp or powered.
Fires and explosions happen in these areas because of the machinery and explosion hazards in the area. Flammable substances, welders, leaking pipes, and exposed wires are found all over the site.
There are many long-term exposure dangers in the area from fumes, dust, and heavy metals. These can cause health conditions in the longer term. Respiratory illnesses, intoxications, and other health conditions are common when Rochester workers are exposed to these substances for a long period of time.
It is hard to pass through Rochester without coming across a construction site. Many people work in this industry, and there are many labor laws in effect to help make this profession as safe as it can be. The laws can determine who is liable for the accident once it happens.
New York law also lays out liability for these accidents. If you’ve been injured and you need help following an accident, below are just a few of the potentially liable parties for your claim.
Owners are legally obligated to provide reasonable and adequate protection and safety to the lives and health of those employed for the project. These owners and general contractors have to take the necessary steps to make construction sites safe.
If there are potential dangers that could be harmful, they have to be addressed. The Rochester workers also have to have the necessary safety equipment. These employees also have to have had the proper training to do the job safely.
Another safety law known throughout the state is the scaffolding law. This law states that scaffolding and other dangerous site equipment have to be erected, secured, and fastened down. This is a strict liability law. This means that you don’t have to prove negligence by the owner in order to receive compensation or to hold them liable for the damages.
When a general contractor wins the bid on a job site, they sometimes use subcontractors to do some of the work. Subcontractors are just as responsible for providing a safe work environment as site owners when being hired on.
The entire team that is doing the job should consider the safety precautions that need to be there to do the job safely.
Engineers and architects on the site could also be held liable for injuries. They’re who design the structures. When they do this, they have strict safety and professional standards they have to follow.
In New York, these professionals have to have these sites inspected regularly. If the site wasn’t inspected or due to a structural issue, then the architect or engineer may be to blame.
There are many different pieces of equipment and machinery on a construction site. When these machines are defective, even the most skilled workers can get hurt.
If this happens, the manufacturer that has made the product may be liable for the injuries. Manufacturers are required to ensure their products aren’t defective and won’t cause injury to the consumer. If this happens, talk to your lawyer about your options.
Contacting a Rochester construction accident lawyer is important in these instances, as you want to find out what to do next. Knowing more about your options when you’ve been hurt in a construction accident can help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call our professionals at Brown Chiari LLP to set up a time to speak about the case you may have. We’re ready to speak with you over a free consultation about your accident. You can call 716-681-7190 or fill out the online contact form below.