On average, ten percent of people who work in concrete manufacturing suffer serious injuries each year. Of all construction subsectors, pouring concrete has the second-highest injury rate after framing. Given the amount of concrete used on an average commercial construction job, it is no surprise that concrete-related injuries are relatively common. When these accidents are caused by third-party negligence and the injuries are serious, it is important to consult an experienced New York construction accident attorney to learn about your options for compensation.
If you were seriously injured in a concrete-related accident on a New York or New Jersey construction site, you need the experienced legal team at Hofmann & Schweitzer to determine the causes of the accident to ensure that you are fully compensated for your injuries and time off work.
Types of Injuries Resulting From NY Construction Site Concrete Accidents
Like many other job tasks on a commercial construction site, working with concrete poses serious hazards, particularly if a laborer is rushed or working with malfunctioning equipment or negligent coworkers. Injuries that can result from concrete accidents include the following.
Fractures, Sprains, and Contusions
Wet concrete surfaces pose a significant risk of slips, trips, and falls, leading to injuries such as broken bones, soft tissue injuries, and bruises. Uneven terrain or the presence of debris can exacerbate the likelihood of accidents. Concrete workers may slip on freshly poured concrete, trip over equipment or tools, or lose balance on uneven surfaces during the concrete handling process.
Chemical Burns
Direct contact with wet concrete can cause chemical burns and skin irritations. Prolonged exposure may result in dermatitis and other serious skin conditions, leading to pain, discomfort, and potential long-term health effects. Accidental splashes or inadequate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can expose workers to wet concrete, increasing the risk of chemical burns.
Eye Injuries and Lacerations
Concrete splatter and airborne particles during the pouring and finishing stages can cause eye injuries, ranging from irritation to severe damage. Lacerations may occur if workers come into contact with the sharp edges of concrete structures. Lack of appropriate eye protection or proximity to high-force concrete pouring and finishing activities can result in eye injuries and lacerations.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
The physical demands of lifting, carrying, and pouring concrete can result in manual handling injuries, including back strains, muscle sprains, and other musculoskeletal issues. These injuries can cause persistent pain and limit a worker's ability to perform daily tasks. Improper lifting techniques or overexertion during tasks such as carrying heavy concrete bags or using vibrating equipment can contribute to manual handling injuries.
Crushed Bones and Amputations
Improper use of equipment, equipment malfunctions, or lack of operator training can lead to entanglements and crushing incidents, causing severe injuries such as fractures, amputations, or even fatalities. Operation of heavy machinery like concrete mixers or pumps without adherence to safety protocols can result in entanglements and crushing incidents on construction sites.
Catastrophic Injuries and Fatalities
The collapse of concrete forms or structures can lead to catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. In severe cases, structural failures can result in paralysis and fatalities. Poorly constructed or supported forms, inadequate quality control, or failure to adhere to engineering specifications may contribute to collapses during the concrete pouring process.
How We Can Help After a Devastating Concrete Accident on a NY Construction Site
Hofmann & Schweitzer plays a crucial role in assisting injured workers by navigating the complex legal landscape to secure workers' compensation and hold negligent parties accountable. For example, if your concrete-related construction injury happened on a New York construction site, we will determine if Section 23-2.2 of the New York Industrial Code was violated. New York Industrial Code Section 23-2.2 explains the general safety, inspection, stripping, reshoring, and beam, floor, and roof requirements for concrete work on New York construction sites.
In the aftermath of a construction accident involving concrete or other hazards, our skilled attorneys understand the nuances of workers' compensation laws in New York and New Jersey and can guide you through the claims process. We advocate for our clients to ensure that they receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Additionally, we can investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident to identify any negligent parties, such as employers, contractors, or equipment manufacturers. By building a strong case, we aim to hold these parties accountable through legal action, seeking damages beyond workers' compensation where applicable. This dual approach ensures that our clients not only receive the immediate financial support they need but also have an advocate fighting for their rights and pursuing justice for the long-term consequences of the accident.
