Dutchess County Construction Accident Lawyer

Claim victory in Dutchess County construction accident battles!   Did a construction accident in Dutchess County disrupt your life?  Getting hurt on the job can throw you and your loved ones into tough times. Your injuries might keep you from work and cause money worries. Additionally, fighting for what you deserve feels unfair when big companies don’t seem to hear you out. This can leave you feeling alone and stressed. If you’re hurt and unsure what to do, a Dutchess County construction accident lawyer is here to stand by you. At Fakhoury Law Firm, we’re here to make a difference. Our compassionate construction accident lawyer is ready to stand up for your rights and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to move forward. Reach out to us for a free consultation, and let us take the weight off your shoulders so you can concentrate on getting better. Why Do Construction Accidents Happen in Dutchess County? Construction accidents remain a significant issue in Dutchess County, NY, reflecting challenges nationwide. Despite regulations, construction is one of the most dangerous industries, with fatalities comprising over 20% of all worker deaths nationwide. According to OSHA, approximately 14 workers die from construction-related injuries every day. Falls Falls are the most frequent cause of construction-related deaths, accounting for almost 40% of fatalities. These accidents happen when safety measures, like harnesses and guardrails, are not in place. Falls are more likely on unstable surfaces or when workers need to receive adequate training in fall prevention. Struck-by Object Incidents Falling objects, such as tools or equipment, are another common hazard. These incidents account for about 8% of construction deaths. Struck-by accidents usually occur when materials are not securely fastened or when heavy machinery is misused, placing workers at risk. Electrical Hazards and Electrocution Electrocution is a frequent cause of injury and death on construction sites, occurring when workers come into contact with live wires or faulty electrical systems. These accidents often result from insufficient safety protocols, such as failing to mark electrical hazards or de-energize circuits. Machinery and Crush Accidents Machinery accidents, including crush injuries, happen when workers are caught in or pinned between equipment or objects. These incidents are often due to operator mistakes, lack of training, or poor maintenance. Heavy machinery like cranes and forklifts poses significant dangers if not operated properly. Who is Responsible for Safety on Construction Sites? Maintaining safety on construction sites in New York is a shared responsibility among multiple parties. According to Part 23 of the New York Labor Code, several individuals and entities are accountable for ensuring the site remains safe for all workers. If safety regulations are violated and lead to an injury, any of these parties may be held legally liable. 1. Property Owners Property owners are obligated to ensure their construction sites comply with safety standards. They must proactively identify hazards and coordinate with contractors and site managers to implement safety measures. 2. Employers Employers must provide safe equipment, tools, and working environments for their employees. They are responsible for training workers on safety procedures and ensuring all employees follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. 3. Construction Site Managers Site managers oversee daily operations and ensure that safety regulations are followed. They are responsible for identifying and addressing risks during the project and ensuring that all workers use safety equipment correctly. 4. General Contractors General contractors are broadly responsible for managing construction activities and coordinating with subcontractors to maintain site safety. They must ensure safety devices, such as guardrails and scaffolds, are in place and functioning correctly to protect workers from injuries. 5. Agents of the General Contractor Agents working on behalf of the general contractor are also held accountable for enforcing safety standards. Their role includes monitoring compliance with the labor code and correcting any safety violations they encounter. Common Injuries in Construction Accidents Construction sites pose numerous safety risks, leading to serious injuries. Below are some of the most common injuries workers face on construction sites: 1. Head Injuries Head injuries often occur due to falls, falling objects, or equipment malfunctions. These incidents can lead to concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or skull fractures, with potentially long-term cognitive and physical effects. 2. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries Heavy lifting, slips, trips, and falls frequently result in back injuries, such as herniated discs or spinal fractures. Severe spinal injuries may cause paralysis, affecting a worker’s ability to perform daily activities. 3. Fractures Broken bones are common in construction accidents, often caused by falls, being struck by objects, or mishandling heavy machinery. These injuries can require long recovery periods and rehabilitation. 4. Burns Burns can result from exposure to hot surfaces, chemicals, or electrical hazards. Severe burns may require specialized treatment and lead to permanent scarring or nerve damage. 5. Amputations Accidents involving heavy machinery can result in the loss of limbs. Amputations are life-changing injuries that may require prosthetics and extensive rehabilitation. 6. Crush Injuries Workers can sustain crush injuries when caught between heavy objects or machinery. These injuries often cause severe tissue damage, and internal bleeding, and can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention. What Legal Protections Exist for Construction Workers in Dutchess County? Construction sites present inherent risks, making safety regulations essential to protect workers. Dutchess County, like the rest of New York State, enforces several labor laws. The goal is to ensure safe working environments and hold contractors and property owners accountable.  Below is an overview of key New York labor laws and national safety guidelines relevant to construction accidents. NY Labor Law Section 200 NY Labor Law Section 200 establishes the general duty of employers to provide safe working conditions. It holds contractors and property owners liable if accidents occur under two conditions: A successful claim requires evidence showing the contractor’s awareness of the danger or involvement in the unsafe task, often gathered through depositions and project documents. NY Labor Law 202 NY Labor Law 202 focuses on ensuring the safety of individuals cleaning windows or building exteriors. Property owners must provide