Construction sites are inherently dangerous, and one of the most prevalent hazards is the risk of being struck by falling objects. These objects, which can include equipment, tools, and debris, often fall from elevated areas such as scaffolds, ladders, or buildings under construction. The injuries resulting from such accidents can be catastrophic, including fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, and, in some cases, fatalities. This highlights the critical need for stringent safety measures and constant vigilance in these high-risk environments.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a falling object on a construction site, securing experienced legal guidance is crucial. At K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., our skilled Queens construction accident lawyers are dedicated to advocating for the rights of injured workers. With a deep understanding of the laws surrounding construction accidents, we can help you through the legal process to seek compensation from liable parties and obtain the financial recovery you deserve. Contact us today at (646) 701-7990 to schedule a consultation.
What Types Of Injuries Are Caused By Falling Objects?
Falling objects on construction sites can cause injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. The falling objects can hit any part of your body and cause various injuries. However, falling object accidents often involve head injuries, leading to concussions, brain damage, or even fatalities. Traumatic brain injuries and skull fractures commonly occur when objects strike a worker’s head.
In addition to head injuries, falling objects may lead to neck, shoulder, back, and spinal cord injuries; broken bones and fractures; and penetrating injuries. Spinal cord or back injuries can result from the force of a falling object, potentially leading to paralysis, chronic pain, or disabilities, which may end a career and leave the victim with no means of income. Seeking compensation from liable parties can help alleviate some financial stress caused by these injuries and allow victims to focus on their physical and emotional recovery.
Other potential injuries include scarring and disfigurement, which may occur if sharp objects cut or puncture the skin. Amputations are another serious risk, particularly if a heavy object crushes a limb. Facial and eye injuries can occur if fragments hit a worker’s face, leading to permanent disability in severe cases.
Internal organ damage and internal bleeding may result from the impact of heavy objects, posing significant medical risks. In the worst cases, falling objects can be fatal.
To reduce the risk of injury from falling objects, it is essential that construction workers strictly adhere to safety protocols and consistently wear protective gear, including hard hats and safety goggles. These precautions are vital for minimizing the likelihood of serious injuries and ensuring a safer work environment.
What Causes Falling Object Accidents?
The construction site accidents leading to heavy objects falling and injuring a person can have a number of causes. The most common are the following:
- Lack of safety at the construction site. The workers at the construction site should take extra care not to let the construction materials, working tools, or debris drop from higher levels. dropped while being hoisted from one level to another. The same applies to crane and lift operators who should secure the construction materials;
- Lack of warning signs. Some areas of the construction site are just too dangerous to enter. Site workers and visitors, as well as passersby, should be effectively warned of the hazardous conditions. Barricades and warning signs should not be placed too close to dangerous areas;
- Lack of supervision. The construction process on the site should be supervised at all times. The site supervisor should make sure the workers secure the construction materials, dispose of construction debris and follow safety protocols. The workers should wear the safety equipment and undergo safety training to minimize the accident risks;
- Lack of machinery maintenance. The mechanical defects of the construction equipment can cause a load drop or of the machinery fall. The timely maintenance, testing, and inspections in line with safety requirements can protect people from injuries;
| Cause of Falling Object Accidents | Description |
|---|---|
| Lack of Safety at the Construction Site | Workers not securing materials, tools falling from heights |
| Lack of Warning Signs | No signs in hazardous areas, inadequate barricades |
| Lack of Supervision | Inadequate monitoring of safety protocols |
| Lack of Machinery Maintenance | Mechanical defects causing load drops |
What is NY Falling Object Labor Law?
The New York Falling Object Labor Laws demand safeguards against falling objects, including:
- Installation of catch platforms on the exterior vertical walls of any building or structure, designed to catch and secure falling objects or materials from upper work areas
- Provision of overhead protection on multi-point suspension scaffolds in areas prone to falling objects or material hazards
- Placement of overhead safeguards at the crosshead of hoist cars employed for the hoisting of materials to shield individuals from falling objects.
- Implementation of sheds or other overhead protection on walkways where falling objects or materials pose a threat
- Use of protective platforms above the work level in elevator shafts
- Provision of overhead protection for every hoisting machine operator using material platforms or bucket hoists
- Overhead safeguards for tower crane cabs and remotely controlled stations.
- A significant overhead shelter or barrier is required to safeguard forklift truck operators from falling objects and materials.
- Installation of a substantial overhead canopy or screen is necessary to protect forklift truck operators from falling objects and materials.
Moreover, in addition to the New York Labor Law, employers are required to adhere to the General Duty Clause by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This provision requires them to provide a secure work environment devoid of perceived hazards that can cause severe physical harm or death.
What Should You Do If A Falling Object Causes Your Injury?
If you were injured by a falling object or debris from a construction site, you may be able to receive compensation for your injury. You may have the right to compensation if the object caused you an injury because of another person’s careless behavior.
Common Liable Parties in Falling Object Accidents
When an object falls and causes injury, determining fault is essential for filing a personal injury claim. In New York City, liability may fall on different parties depending on the specific circumstances of the accident.
- Property Owners and Managers: These individuals or entities are often responsible when a falling object accident results from poor maintenance or negligence. This is especially true in environments such as construction sites, commercial properties, and public areas.
- Construction Companies and Contractors: In construction zones, where falling objects are a frequent hazard, the companies and contractors overseeing the site must safeguard both their employees and the public. Failure to properly secure objects can result in liability for any resulting injuries.
- Employers: In workplace environments, if an injury from a falling object occurs, the employer can be held accountable. This liability arises, particularly if the employer did not adhere to safety protocols or failed to provide the necessary safety equipment to their workers.
- Product Manufacturers: When a falling object is linked to a defective product, the manufacturer of that product might be liable for any injuries that occur.
- Government Entities: Sometimes, falling object injuries occur in public spaces managed by government bodies. Legal actions against such entities are governed by specific rules and often require adherence to shorter claim-filing periods.
- Multiple Parties: In complicated scenarios, liability may be shared among several parties. For instance, both a property owner and a construction firm might be responsible if they neglected to secure objects adequately.
If you’ve been injured by a falling object, a Queens construction accident lawyer from K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can provide the legal guidance you need. Our experienced team can help you identify all liable parties and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options.
Get Skilled Legal Assistance from K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. Today
Injuries caused by falling objects at construction sites are not only traumatic but can also lead to long-term repercussions that affect every aspect of your life. Understanding your rights is crucial in these situations. Whether it’s dealing with medical expenses, loss of income, or the emotional toll of an injury, the path to recovery can be overwhelming. This is why securing knowledgeable legal representation is essential. A skilled lawyer can guide you through your claim, helping you pursue the maximum compensation possible for your suffering and losses.
If you or someone close to you has been injured by a falling object at a construction site, contact our Queens construction accident lawyers at K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. With a commitment to clients and a deep understanding of construction accident law, we provide personalized legal strategies tailored to the specifics of your case. Schedule a consultation today to explore your legal options and take the first step toward protecting your rights. Call us at (646) 701-7990 to learn more.
