Unlike many workplaces, construction projects involve multiple companies working together.
For example, one company may install scaffolding, another may operate heavy equipment, while a third handles electrical work. The property owner may also have responsibilities for keeping the site reasonably safe.
Because so many parties are involved, an accident often has more than one contributing factor.
That is why every construction accident deserves a careful investigation.
More Than One Party May Share Responsibility
Construction accidents rarely happen because of a single mistake.
Consider these examples.
- A subcontractor removes a safety barrier but does not replace it before leaving for the day.
- A delivery company stacks building materials in a walkway, creating a hidden tripping hazard.
- A piece of rented equipment fails because it was not properly maintained.
Each situation involves a different party. In some cases, several companies may share responsibility for the same accident.
Finding those answers requires more than reviewing an accident report.
The Construction Site Changes Quickly
One of the biggest challenges after a construction accident is that the job site does not stay the same.
By the next morning:
- Damaged equipment may be repaired or removed.
- Scaffolding may be taken down.
- Debris may be cleared away.
- Materials may be relocated.
- Workers may move to another project.
As construction continues, important evidence can disappear.
That is one reason it helps to begin an investigation as soon as possible.
Small Details Can Tell the Bigger Story
Construction accident investigations often focus on details that may not seem important at first.
Questions may include:
- Was the equipment inspected before use?
- Were workers given the proper safety equipment?
- Had similar hazards been reported before?
- Were work areas clearly marked?
- Did anyone witness the accident?
- Were daily safety meetings held?
The answers can help explain not only how the accident happened, but also whether it could have been prevented.
Why Workers’ Compensation May Not Be the Whole Story
Workers’ compensation provides important benefits after many workplace injuries. It can help cover medical treatment and a portion of lost wages.
However, depending on the circumstances, it may not be the only option available.
If another company or third party contributed to the accident, there may be additional legal avenues to recover compensation. Every case is different, which is why a thorough investigation is so important before reaching conclusions.
What You Can Do After a Construction Accident
If you are injured on a construction site, taking a few simple steps can help protect both your health and your potential claim.
- Seek medical treatment right away, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Report the accident to your supervisor as soon as possible.
- Take photographs of the area if you can do so safely.
- Keep copies of your medical records and any accident reports.
- Avoid assuming you already know who was responsible before the facts have been reviewed.
These steps may preserve important information while you focus on your recovery.
Contact a New York Construction Accident Lawyer
If you were injured while working on a construction site, Segan, Nemerov, Singer & Sonin P.C. can investigate the circumstances of your accident, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.
Contact us today for a free consultation.