Construction Accident Injuries in New York on the Rise

According to the New York Times, as real estate construction has increased in the city, so have the number of people hurt and killed in construction accidents. In just the past 12 months alone, at least 16 construction workers have died in accidents. In honor of the injured and fallen construction workers, St. Patrick’s Cathedral has been holding an annual mass. While safety measures have increased since the tragic crane collapse in 2008, injuries still occur every year. According to the New York Times, the number of injuries at construction sites was 472 just last year alone.

Even as inspections increase and fines for violations grow, injuries and accidents continue to occur in New York City. If you or a loved one has suffered a construction accident injury, a personal injury lawyer may be able to assist you in getting the recovery you may deserve. The attorneys at Antin, Ehrlich, & Epstein, L.L.P. offer clients compassionate and caring counsel to help them as they navigate the difficult days and weeks after an accident takes place.

Some of the construction accident injuries have been attributed to the fact that many construction site jobs are now non-union. According to the Wall Street Journal, developers are more willing to work with non-union workers. Non-union workers can sometimes offer developers significantly lower costs.

Many of the individuals who have died in the last year are non-union workers. Only two constructions workers killed were union. Many argue that non-union sites cut corners that lead to shortcuts when it comes to worker safety.

Some workers complain about terrible working conditions at some of the non-union job sites. In one case, a worker fell down an elevator shaft at a site where workers averaged 60-hour workweeks. In another instance, a worker died during a heat wave, when workers were still sent to the job site.

Workers face unique challenges when they seek compensation for their injuries or file worker’s compensation claims. In some cases, workers are immigrants who may not have their paperwork. In other instances workers face retaliation from foremen.

Lawmakers are cracking down on dangerous work sites. In one case, a general contracting company was found guilty of manslaughter and reckless endangerment for dangerous conditions on its work site. Despite warnings, the company did not take action to protect its workers. In the past, companies avoided criminal charges for unsafe workplaces. But, given complaints and injuries, more victims are seeing justice in both criminal and civil courts. Victims and families have been able to collect many millions of dollars in recovery for their losses.

Negligent contractors are being held responsible for their actions. If you or a loved one works at a construction site where safety practices are suspect, protect yourself. Contact a personal injury attorney today or visit our website at aeelaw.com to learn more. Silence and fear of speaking out can lead to continued dangerous conditions that can lead to more deaths. Protect your rights and the rights of others at your workplace. Silence kills.