Workplace violence is unfortunately common in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), injuries inflicted by acts of violence are the third-leading cause of work-related fatalities.
When these incidents occur on a construction site, the added presence of tools and extreme heights increase the risk of severe injury even further. Our construction injury lawyers explain who may be held liable for the consequences of worksite violence.
Contractors and Attackers May Be Sued for Assault on a NY Construction Site
While the person committing the attack is clearly responsible for any injuries, the general contractor, subcontractor, and even employers may also be liable if they did not do everything in their power to minimize risks. For example, a third party may be liable if the violent incident involved:
- Hiring negligence. An employment company may be liable for providing a violent worker if it failed to conduct criminal background checks on applicants, did not call former employers to inquire about experience, or failed to check a worker’s references.
- Ignoring reports of violent behavior. Any supervisor who receives a report of a threat, incident that could have caused harm, or potential mental instability on the part of a worker should follow up on the report immediately.
- Employees working in isolated areas. A supervisor who required an employee to work late, work alone, or work in an isolated area may be partially responsible when an attack occurs.
- A first offense warning. A supervisor may be responsible if they issued a warning to an employee for a similar incident in the past, rather than adopting a zero-tolerance policy.
- Inadequate site security. Construction sites are not exempt from employee safety protections required in other workplaces, such as exit and stairwell lighting, security cameras, and alarms or emergency phone boxes.
- Wrongful death. If violence resulted in the death of a loved one on a construction site, family members may be able to hold the negligent party accountable for the financial and emotional damage caused by the untimely loss.
If you are suffering after a construction injury, our attorneys will work to get you the compensation you are owed—and we do not collect any fees until after your case is won. Simply fill out our quick online contact form or call (800) 362-9329 to speak with a lawyer at Hofmann & Schweitzer today, or learn more about your rights in our FREE brochure, Hurt in a Construction Accident? You’re Not Alone.
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