Construction site accident lawyer discusses common injuries among workers
According to a construction site accident lawyer at the F&A Injury Law Firm in New York City, The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated more than 2.1 million workers employed in the construction industry during 2015. This work is essential – both for maintaining critical infrastructure across the U.S. as well as continually improving the standard of living. Unfortunately, construction brings with it a number of occupational hazards. Despite best precautions and regulations designed to protect individuals, construction site accidents still occur. Workers can help prevent these accidents by adhering to safe practices as well becoming aware of these common construction site injuries:
Burns
Chemical, electrical, and heat burns are common dangers around a work site. Depending on the severity, these can cause permanent scarring and loss of movement around the area effected by the burn.
Head Injuries
Despite hard hat regulations, head injuries caused by falling tools and materials are common. Many construction projects require multiple workers on site working in tandem with each other. This increases the chance of an accident. Frequently reported head injuries include lacerations to the head and face, concussions, and in severe cases, traumatic brain injury.
Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
Workers who use ladders, scaffolding, or work at heights greater than 15 feet run the risk of significant injury caused by a fall. Injuries range from broken bones to paralysis.
Amputation
Construction sites often require machinery or on-site equipment to fabricate or customize parts. These machines carry the risk of serious damage to limbs and fingers or toes. These may be completely severed; similarly, if a digit is crushed, it may be necessary to amputate if the damage is too extensive to repair.
Hearing Loss
Without the use of earplugs or noise suppression headphones, prolonged exposure to loud equipment can cause permanent hearing loss.
If you work in the construction industry in or around New York City’s five boroughs and have experienced one of the above injuries while at a work site, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact us to discuss your case.