Construction accidents happen when safety precautions fail or human error occurs. These incidents often involve falls, equipment mishaps, electrocutions, or being caught in unsafe spaces. Recognizing the most frequent causes helps everyone, from workers to legal professionals, understand how best to respond when things go wrong.
New York’s construction industry is one of the busiest in the country, with a mix of historic buildings, skyscrapers, and large infrastructure projects. Construction injury legal experts in New York are familiar with the city’s complex regulations and high-risk environments. Their experience helps ensure that injured workers understand their rights and receive proper guidance after an accident.
What are the “Fatal Four” in Construction?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) calls the top four causes of deaths in the construction industry the “Fatal Four”: falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-in/between accidents. Together, they account for the majority of fatalities and are largely preventable with proper training and equipment.
- Falls are the most common cause. In 2023 alone, there were 421 construction deaths from falls to a lower level out of 1,075 total fatalities.
- Struck-by accidents, being hit by moving machinery or falling materials, make up a significant portion of these deaths.
- Electrocutions account for a high number of injuries, often due to contact with overhead lines or faulty wiring.
- Caught-in or caught-between accidents occur when workers are trapped by collapsing structures or equipment.
What Other Hazards Make Construction Dangerous?
Beyond the Fatal Four, several additional risks contribute to workplace injuries:
- Overexertion and slips/trips: US construction laborers experienced high rates of injury from falls, slips, trips, and overexertion, far exceeding those in many other professions.
- Hazardous exposures: Workers routinely face dangers from chemicals like cement dust, asbestos, or solvents. Without proper protective gear, these can cause long-term health damage.
- Equipment and transportation accidents: Working near vehicles, heavy machinery, or on uneven terrain increases the chance of serious harm.
- Environmental risks: Heat, noise, and excessive outdoor exposure raise the risk of heat stroke, hearing loss, and reduced alertness.
How Can Legal Experts Help?
In complex states like New York, construction injury legal experts step in when unsafe practices cause injury. These legal professionals:
- Evaluate whether an accident ties back to OSHA violations or other unsafe conditions.
- Handle claims, including third-party lawsuits where someone other than the employer (such as equipment manufacturers or general contractors) may be responsible.
- Work to secure compensation that workers’ comp alone may not fully cover, ensuring victims receive compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
Why Legal Support Matters
Construction accidents are often catastrophic and life-altering. While workers’ compensation covers certain costs, it may fall short when fault lies beyond the employer or the injury is particularly severe. Having legal experts who understand both construction safety laws and the specifics of regional regulations, like those in New York, can make a critical difference in accountability and recovery.
Key Takeaway
- The deadliest construction hazards are falls, strikes-by, electrocutions, and caught-in/between incidents.
- Additional risks include overexertion, hazardous substances, machinery, and environmental conditions.
- Legal experts help injured workers determine fault, navigate third-party claims, and pursue full compensation, especially where workers’ comp is insufficient.
