Construction sites are filled with heavy machinery and large equipment that make the job possible but also create serious risks for workers. From cranes and forklifts to bulldozers and excavators, these machines require proper handling and maintenance to prevent accidents. When an injury occurs due to large equipment, the consequences can be devastating, leading to severe injuries, long-term disabilities, or even fatalities. Understanding the dangers of large equipment and what to do after an accident can help injured workers seek the compensation they need to recover, with the assistance of a skilled New York City, NY construction accident lawyer. The Eskesen Law Firm understands how to handle these cases. Calls are answered live 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Common Causes Of Large Equipment Injuries
Heavy machinery is essential for construction work, but it also presents several hazards. Many accidents occur due to improper operation, mechanical failures, or unsafe working conditions. Some of the most common causes of injuries involving large equipment include:
- Lack of training: Workers who are not properly trained to operate machinery may make mistakes that lead to serious accidents.
- Mechanical failures: Equipment that is not properly maintained can malfunction, causing sudden breakdowns or loss of control.
- Struck-by accidents: Workers can be hit by moving machinery or falling objects from cranes and lifts.
- Caught-in/between incidents: A worker may become trapped between equipment and another structure, leading to crushing injuries.
- Tip-overs and rollovers: Large equipment can become unstable, especially on uneven surfaces, causing it to overturn and injure nearby workers.
Types Of Injuries Caused By Large Equipment
The size and power of construction equipment mean that injuries from accidents can be severe and life-altering. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Crush injuries: Being caught in or between heavy machinery can result in broken bones, internal organ damage, or amputations.
- Head and brain injuries: Falling objects or collisions with equipment can lead to concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries: Falls from cranes, scaffolding, or other machinery can cause serious spinal damage, sometimes resulting in paralysis.
- Burns and electrocution: Some machinery operates near power lines or contains flammable materials, increasing the risk of electrical shocks or burns.
- Severe lacerations and puncture wounds: Sharp machinery components can cause deep cuts or impalements, leading to significant blood loss and infection risks.
Who Is Liable For Large Equipment Accidents?
Determining liability in a construction accident involving large equipment can be complex. Several parties may be responsible, including:
- Employers: If proper safety protocols and training were not provided, the employer may be at fault. Even so, an injured worker can bring a workers’ compensation claim, but in most cases cannot sue the employer (Workers’ Compensation Law § 11).
- Equipment manufacturers: If a machine had a design flaw or defect that led to an accident, the manufacturer could be responsible.
- Third-party contractors: If another contractor on the site operated equipment negligently, they may be liable for the accident.
- Property owners: Under New York Labor Law 240(1) and 241(6), property owners and general contractors can be held responsible for certain safety violations even if they did not supervise the work.
An investigation into the accident is necessary to determine who is at fault and how best to pursue compensation.
What To Do After A Large Equipment Injury
After an injury on a construction site, taking immediate action can protect both health and legal rights. Navigating a construction accident can be tricky. Seeking medical attention is the first priority, even if injuries do not seem serious at first. Some conditions, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.
It is also important to report the accident to a supervisor and ensure that an official report is filed. Gathering evidence, such as photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and details about the equipment involved, can help support a future claim. Consulting a construction accident lawyer as soon as possible helps the injured worker understand their legal options and take the right steps to seek compensation.
How A Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help
Injuries from large equipment often result in high medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs. A construction accident lawyer can help with the legal process by:
- Investigating the accident and determining liability
- Filing a workers’ compensation claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit
- Negotiating with insurance companies to pursue fair compensation
- Representing the injured worker in court if necessary
A lawyer can make sure all available legal options are explored and help injured workers pursue the financial support they need for recovery. We can go over different types of compensation people seek in personal injury cases regarding construction accidents at your consultation.
Seeking Compensation After A Large Equipment Injury
Construction workers injured by large equipment may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits for medical expenses and part of their lost wages. Pain and suffering is not available through workers’ compensation, but it may be recovered in a lawsuit against a party other than the employer, such as an owner or contractor. Whether the claim is for workers’ compensation or a third-party lawsuit, having a lawyer is important to make sure it is handled properly.
If an accident on a construction site has caused serious injuries, speaking with a construction accident lawyer can help clarify the next steps. Understanding legal rights and taking timely action can make all the difference in recovering physically, emotionally, and financially.
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