CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS

New York is home to so many construction projects going on a daily basis.  Many times accidents occur because employers, general contractors, and building owners will decide to cut corners to save money rather than ensure the well-being of their workers on construction sites. Often times it is not only the workers who are at risk. Unsafe conditions can also be a danger to innocent bystanders and pedestrians where serious injuries or even death can occur as a result of failing to meet basic expectations to keep everyone safe.

According to the 2024 annual report from the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (known as “NYCOSH”), the construction accident fatality rate increased approximately 2.7% percent in New York City from about eleven (11) deaths per 100,000 workers to almost twelve (12) per 100,000 workers in 2022.

CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS CAN HAPPEN FROM:
  • Falls from heights on ladders and scaffolds;
  • Improper safety devices;
  • Cranes, hoists, pulleys, and heavy machinery;
  • Demolition and explosions;
  • Renovations and excavations;
  • Painting;
  • Window washing;
  • Masonry;
  • Welding;
  • Electrocution and shock;
  • Heavy or sharp projectiles;
  • Unsecured tools or debris;
  • Toxic substance exposure;
  • Dangerous chemicals;
  • Neck injuries;
  • Back injuries;
  • Shoulder and arm injuries;
  • Leg and knee injuries;
  • Ankle and foot injuries;
  • Hand and finger injuries;
  • Repetitive stress injuries;
  • Soft tissue injuries;
  • Sprain and strain injuries;
  • Trip, slip, and fall injuries;
  • Paralysis or death.
MORE INFORMATION ON CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS:

The following web links go into more detail regarding the most significant New York labor laws that can apply in construction accidents: