Know the Hazards of Job Site Machinery and Protect Yourself After a Construction Accident in NYC
If you are employed in the construction industry, you already understand how dangerous your job can be. Construction sites throughout Brooklyn and New York City expose workers to heavy equipment, power tools, elevated work areas, and hazardous machinery every day.
Recognizing these risks is the first step toward protecting yourself. Another critical step is understanding your legal rights if an accident occurs. If you are injured by dangerous equipment or heavy machinery, speaking with a heavy machinery accident lawyer can help you understand whether you may be entitled to compensation.
After seeking medical attention, consider contacting a job site accident lawyer NYC workers trust to evaluate your case and determine who may be legally responsible.
Construction Is One of the Most Dangerous Industries in New York City
Construction remains one of the most hazardous occupations in NYC.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 69 fatal work injuries in New York City in 2023. The construction sector had the highest number of fatalities, accounting for 24 deaths, or 35 percent of all workplace fatalities in the city.
Falls, slips, and trips caused 12 of those 24 construction deaths. Exposure to harmful substances and dangerous environments also accounted for a significant portion of fatalities.
The construction and extraction occupational group experienced 30 fatal injuries in 2023, the highest of any occupational category.
These numbers show that job site safety remains a serious concern across New York City.
The Most Dangerous Types of Heavy Machinery on Job Sites
Heavy machinery plays a major role in construction accidents. When equipment is improperly operated, poorly maintained, or defective, the consequences can be severe.
Common examples of dangerous machinery include:
- Forklifts
- Excavators
- Bulldozers
- Cranes
- Nail guns and projectile tools
- Power saws
- Air compressors
- Ladders and scaffolding
Although ladders may not appear as dangerous as large equipment, falls remain one of the leading causes of fatal construction injuries in NYC.
If you were injured while operating or working near heavy equipment, a heavy machinery accident lawyer NYC workers rely on can investigate whether negligence or defective equipment contributed to your injuries.
Reduce Your Risk of a Machinery-Related Injury
Safety must be a priority on every construction site.
Workers should consistently use proper protective equipment, such as:
- Hard hats
- Safety harnesses
- Eye protection
- Gloves
- Steel-toe boots
All heavy machinery should only be operated by properly trained personnel. Equipment should be inspected regularly to ensure it is functioning safely.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, known as OSHA, provides detailed construction safety regulations. Following OSHA guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.
Even when workers follow all safety protocols, accidents still happen. When they do, legal guidance may be necessary.
Machinery Malfunctions and Third-Party Liability
Not all job site injuries are caused by worker error. Some occur because equipment malfunctions or contains defective parts.
When faulty machinery causes harm, the manufacturer, distributor, or maintenance provider may be liable under product liability laws. In these cases, injured workers may be able to pursue compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits.
Injuries caused by malfunctioning machinery often include:
- Burns
- Severe cuts and lacerations
- Electrocution
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Broken bones
- Crush injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
Because construction accounted for 24 of the 69 workplace fatalities in NYC in 2023, identifying the true cause of a heavy equipment accident is essential.
A heavy machinery accident lawyer can determine whether a third-party claim may be available in addition to workers’ compensation.
Worker Demographics Highlight the Risk in NYC Construction
Workplace fatality data also reveals important trends.
In 2023, wage and salary workers accounted for 91 percent of workplace fatalities in New York City. Males accounted for 90 percent of fatal work injuries. Hispanic or Latino workers represented 41 percent of those who died from workplace injuries.
These statistics emphasize how serious construction site risks remain throughout NYC.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, a job site accident lawyer trusted by NYC construction workers can help you explore your legal options.
Speak With a Heavy Machinery Accident Lawyer in NYC
If you were injured by heavy equipment, defective machinery, or unsafe job site conditions, you may have the right to pursue compensation.
Workers’ compensation may cover medical bills and a portion of lost wages, but it does not provide damages for pain and suffering. In many cases, injured workers can pursue third-party claims against negligent contractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers.
An experienced heavy machinery accident lawyer, trusted by NYC residents, can investigate your case, preserve critical evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum represents injured construction workers throughout Brooklyn and New York City. If you were hurt in a machinery-related accident, do not delay seeking legal advice.
Fill out our online form today to schedule your free consultation or call 718-237-5586 to speak with our office.
