Construction work is vital to Long Island’s growth and development. However, it’s also one of the most hazardous industries in the area, as the work involves physical labor, powerful machinery, heights and roadside work—all contributing to significant injury risks for construction workers.
New York law entitles most construction workers to workers’ compensation benefits for job-related injuries, regardless of fault. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) identifies the leading causes of construction site injuries as follows.
Falls from heights
Long Island’s skyline is constantly evolving, with new buildings and renovations happening across Suffolk and Nassau counties. Unfortunately, this progress comes with risks, particularly falls from heights. Whether it’s a multi-story building or a home renovation, workers often find themselves on scaffolding, ladders or rooftops. A moment’s distraction or faulty equipment can lead to devastating consequences.
Struck-by accidents
Construction sites are bustling with activity, and Long Island is no exception. From the busy streets of Brentwood to the developing areas of Central Islip, workers are constantly surrounded by moving vehicles, swinging cranes and falling objects. Struck-by incidents can occur when a moving or falling object hits a worker. These incidents can range from minor injuries to fatal accidents, depending on the size and speed of the object involved.
Electrical incidents
With Long Island’s mix of old and new infrastructure, electrical hazards are a constant concern on construction sites. From rewiring historic buildings to installing state-of-the-art systems in new developments, workers face the potential risk of electrocution daily. For instance, faulty wiring, exposed electrical parts or contact with power lines can lead to severe burns, cardiac arrest or even death.
Caught-in/between accidents
The area’s construction boom means heavy machinery is a common sight on job sites. From excavators in Bay Shore to cranes in Wyandanch, these powerful tools are important for progress but can also be incredibly dangerous. Caught-in/between accidents occur when a worker is trapped, crushed or compressed between two or more objects from heavy machinery, collapsing structures or trench cave-ins.
No construction site is immune to these risks. While safety measures and regulations are in place, accidents can and do happen. When they do, impacts can extend far beyond the physical injury. Medical bills, lost wages and the emotional toll on families can be tough to deal with. No matter the type of construction site injury you’ve experienced, legal help is available to better ensure that you receive the compensation and care you need to recover and move forward.