On any given day, an estimated 6.5 million people work at a construction site in the U.S. Unfortunately, every year hundreds of workers are injured or even killed due to construction accidents. In fact, the construction industry ranks third in injury-related deaths, with agriculture and mining topping the list.
Unfortunately, no matter how stringent the safety regulations are, the risk of injury is still significant. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for establishing safety standards at construction sites. Nevertheless, as New York Construction Accident Lawyers know all too well, these safety standards can be ignored, resulting in an accident.
Steps to Take if Injured in a Construction Accident
If you are involved in a construction accident, the New York Construction Accident Lawyers of Schwartzapfel® Lawyers P.C. want you to know what to do. Here are some important tips to remember:
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you do not think you are seriously injured, it is important to see a doctor and get checked out.
Take Photos
Photos are invaluable documentation of an accident. Take pictures as soon as possible after the construction accident has occurred. These photos may shed light on a hazardous condition, which may be rectified if you wait too long, meaning your evidence will be lost.
Talk to Any Witnesses
Speak to any witnesses and get their contact information. Their testimony may become important down the road.
Report the Incident
It is important to notify your employer of the construction accident right away. This can be important if you apply for Workers’ Compensation benefits. There are very strict timelines involved with filing a claim, and documentation of the date and circumstances of your injury will be important.
Don’t Sign Anything Before Contacting the New York Construction Accident Lawyers at Schwartzapfel® Lawyers P.C.
It is important that initially you do not sign any form, or make any formal written statement until you speak with one of our New York construction accident lawyers for guidance. Well-meaning statements can easily become misconstrued and end up not serving your best interests.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, contact Schwartzapfel® Lawyers P.C. for guidance and a free consultation at 1-516-342-2200, or fill out our convenient online contact form. We will fight for you!
