Construction sites are notoriously hazardous. Despite many advancements in safety procedures and equipment, construction work is still one of the most dangerous jobs in America. Construction sites and work zones are intrinsically dangerous due to equipment malfunctions, falls from heights, chemical exposure, and more.
Our construction accident attorneys at Towey Law, PLLC can help you obtain the maximum compensation you deserve. If you have suffered an injury due to someone’s negligence or carelessness, contact our offices today for a free case evaluation. You can set up your consultation by calling (716) 300-8232.
Why Hire a Buffalo Construction Accident Lawyer From Towey Law?
Everyone deserves advocacy. At Towey Law, PLLC, you can be sure our construction accident attorneys will fight aggressively for your best interests:
- We have secured more than a million dollars in compensation from our Buffalo personal injury cases.
- Having been born and raised in Buffalo, New York, the attorneys of Towey Law PLLC have close ties to the community.
- The attorneys of Towey Law PLLC provide services in person, on the phone, virtually, or wherever convenient for their clients.
A Construction Accident Lawyer in Buffalo Can Make All the Difference in Your Claim
Liability in a construction zone is seldom straightforward. In many cases, there are multiple companies and independent contractors that may be working on a site.
The construction accident attorneys of Towey Law, PLLC, will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation to support your claim
- Gather key evidence
- Handle all paperwork and filings
- Determine all liable parties
- Negotiate on your behalf
How Common Are Construction Accidents in Buffalo?
Construction work comprises nearly half of the Top 25 Most Dangerous Jobs in the United States every year. While the construction industry has made many improvements in technology, safety equipment, and training over the years, 20 percent of worker deaths are attributed to construction accidents.
In the last reporting year:
- 1.7 percent of construction workers sustained a serious injury on the job.
- Injury rates in the construction industry are 71 percent higher than in any other trade.
- An estimated 195,000 injuries were reportedly treated at emergency rooms.
What Are the Types of Construction Accidents Common to Buffalo, New York?
Construction accidents in Buffalo are not limited to employees. Pedestrians, motorists, and independent contractors also suffer injuries related to hazardous work zones. Construction workers may qualify for workers’ compensation to cover the majority of their expenses. However, pedestrians, motorists, and in some cases, independent contractors may qualify to pursue a personal injury claim.
Accidents can happen frequently. The most common construction accidents involve:
- Defective or poorly maintained machinery and equipment
- Being struck by a negligent vehicle
- Falls from heights, like scaffolding, ladders, and rooftops
- Being struck by falling debris, tools, pieces of scaffolding, and other dangerous objects
- Electrocution, which can be attributed to exposed wires and downed power lines
- Overexertion, which can lead to strokes.
- Explosions or serious burns from chemicals or sparking wires
- Slips and falls from obstructing debris, equipment fluid leaks, or faulty stairs
- Becoming trapped, including being pinned down by a fallen wall or trapped between two pieces of heavy equipment
If you or someone you know has been hurt in a preventable construction accident, call today. You may qualify for compensation for your injuries.
What Is a Third-Party Claim?
It is important to know that not all construction accidents have a third-party claim. In New York, subcontractors have viable claims against the owners and general contractors on construction projects. While a subcontractor may not be able to bring a claim against their own employer, they can bring a claim against the owner, the general contractor, and the other subcontractors on the site. When you discuss your case with a construction accident attorney, they will investigate the details of your case to determine if someone other than your employer appears to be at fault in your case. If so, you can pursue a personal injury claim against the third party.
Workers’ compensation was made to help with the medical bills after an accident. You cannot recover pain and suffering damages, emotional distress, or punitive damages. However, a third-party claim qualifies for full compensation.
For example, if you were injured by heavy machinery due to a faulty valve, the company that manufactured the machinery may be partially responsible. You can collect your workers’ compensation benefits and pursue a product liability case against the manufacturing company.
If you believe your injuries may qualify for a third-party claim in addition to your workers’ compensation, consult with a Buffalo construction accident attorney today.
What Injuries Do Construction Workers Suffer the Most?
When someone is hurt in a construction accident, the consequences can be catastrophic. Construction is a very physically demanding job, and the job sites are filled with dangerous conditions. Common injuries include:
- Brain injuries
Head injuries that affect the brain are especially detrimental. Traumatic brain injuries can cause permanent damage or death. - Spinal cord injuries
The spinal cord is very delicate. Sustaining a spinal cord injury can lead to permanent or partial paralysis. - Crushing injuries
Crushing injuries are common in hazardous work zones. A worker can become trapped between a wall and heavy equipment and sustain broken ribs and massive internal damage. - Torn ligaments
Ligaments can take a long time to heal, but many workers continue to work through torn ligaments which can cause permanent damage. - Broken, fractured, and dislocated bones
Broken and fractured bones can be devastating if sustained in the right place. If fractures lead to splintering, it may take surgery to correct. - Internal organ damage and excessive bleeding
Internal organ damage can be deadly. If the organ is not viable anymore, it may need to be removed and the construction worker added to the waitlist. - Illnesses and toxic exposure
Chemical and toxic exposure can wreak havoc on the lungs and destroy the upper respiratory system. - Severe burns
Burns can lead to severe scarring and a great deal of mental anguish. Also, burns can affect the nerves, causing long-term pain.
In some cases, an injury from work can even result in death. If this has happened to you, please visit our Buffalo wrongful death attorney page.
Contact Our Buffalo Construction Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has sustained a serious injury while on the job, you need representation you can trust. At Towey Law, PLLC, our Buffalo injury lawyers will investigate your case and help you file a third-party claim against the at-fault party. You can rest assured that the attorneys of Towey Law PLLC have the experience and skills you need to recover the damages you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation with a Buffalo construction accident lawyer today by clicking here or calling (716) 300-8232.