No workplace is completely without danger. However, workers in many industries are at a higher risk of being injured on the job. What could seem like a simple mistake, miscalculation, or error in judgment can have a serious impact on a worker’s quality of life and ability to work.
If you have been injured in a Manhattan industrial accident or have lost a loved one in a fatal workplace accident, you need to clearly understand your legal rights. With the help and support of a qualified and experienced personal injury lawyer, you can recover maximum compensation for your losses.
For over 60 years, the team at Cellino Law has helped thousands of New York accident victims recover full compensation for their injuries. Contact our Manhattan, NY, office today at (888) 888-8888 to schedule your free consultation with our team.
How Common Are Industrial Accidents?
In 2020, 129,000 non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in New York State. Of course, these official numbers do not take into account unreported incidents or near-misses.
In reality, it can be expected that the number of workplace accidents seen in our state is much higher than the 353 per day reported to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
What Workers Are at Risk for Industrial Accidents?
More than 202,000 workers in NYC are part of 3 at-risk industries: utilities, construction, and manufacturing. Statewide, these saw 16,300 occupational injuries and illnesses in 2020.
Utility workers
Utility workers face a unique number of hazards in their work environments. One obvious hazard that may come to mind is the danger of electrocution or electrical burns when working with electrical wiring.
Utility work is also performed in various areas. For example, some is done at significant heights, increasing the risk of a dangerous fall. At other times, a utility worker may be working underground in confined spaces, a setting which has its own unique risks.
Construction workers
Construction has long been recognized as a hazardous occupation. It is little wonder, as many construction workers use heavy machinery and work in potentially dangerous environments.
Within the broad category of construction, there is a variety of categories at high risk or injury including:
- Masons
- Duct workers
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Flagmen
- Welders
- Roofers
- HVAC workers
- Concrete workers
- Pipefitters
- Framers
For example, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Cellino Law recovered $2 million in compensation for a construction worker who fell from a scissor lift due to a defect in the construction site floor and required surgery.
Manufacturing workers
Manufacturing continues to be another industry that sees many New York workers injured each year. One major hazard involves the use of large machinery. If a safeguard has been improperly installed, a worker can become caught in the machine, suffering a laceration, amputation, or another serious injury.
Another hazard that can exist in a manufacturing setting is chemicals. In addition to the potential risk of fires and explosions, certain chemicals and toxins used in manufacturing can cause cancer or other illnesses after prolonged exposure.
Common Types of Industrial Accidents
Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of all worker fatalities in NYC in 2019 were due to 3 hazards:
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Contact with objects or equipment
- Exposure to dangerous substances or environments
Cellino Law’s award-winning lawyers have worked with injured workers who have been involved in a wide range of industrial accidents.
Scaffolding accidents
As falls account for such a large number of injury-causing workplace accidents, it is not surprising that scaffolds pose a risk for workers. Scaffolds are used by workers in many different industries, and there are strict rules for their use to keep worksites safe.
However, at times, safety regulations are not followed, or there is negligence or inattention when building the scaffolds. The necessary safety equipment may not be provided or properly used, or there may have been insufficient training.
Falling objects
Many job sites have overhead work being done. Especially in windy conditions, unsecured or improperly secured tools or equipment can fall from above, causing serious injuries.
This risk is increased when an object falls from an increased height, picking up speed and causing serious damage. Falling objects are especially dangerous because they often make contact with the victim’s head. This can cause serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries.
For example, the attorneys at Cellino Law were able to secure a $3.5 million settlement for a construction worker injured when struck by debris.
Confined spaces
A confined space refers to an enclosed area that limits a worker’s ability to enter or exit the space. Confined spaces often have unique risks, including:
- Toxic chemicals
- Lack of oxygen
- Excess oxygen
- High temperatures
- Risk of asphyxiation or drowning
In order to work in a confined space, OSHA requires workers who enter to carry a permit. This ensures that only workers who have received OSHA-approved safety training can work in a confined space. Unfortunately, when safety standards are not followed, workers’ lives are put at risk.
Common Catastrophic Industrial Injuries
Even when a workplace accident is not fatal, it can result in catastrophic injuries, including:
- Paralysis
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Traumatic brain injury
- Burns
- Blindness
- Loss of limb or digit
- Fractures or broken bones
These injuries often result in expensive medical treatment and a lengthy recovery. A serious work-related injury can also leave the victim with permanent damage or chronic pain.
If you have been injured in an industrial accident, you need trustworthy legal advice. Our Manhattan team is available to help injured victims 24/7 – and we can come to you.
What Compensation is Available After a Workplace Accident in New York?
As a general rule, workers’ compensation benefits are in place to provide compensation for workers injured on the job. This coverage is available to workers whether they were at fault for the accident themselves or not.
However, workers’ compensation benefits are not always applicable. For example, certain workers, such as independent contractors, may be unable to make a personal injury claim through workers’ comp.
There are also cases where a worker’s injuries were caused by the negligence or willful action of the employer, another worker, or a third party. In these cases, a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to recover maximum compensation.
While workers’ comp benefits can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and death benefits, there are coverage limits. However, by means of a personal injury lawsuit, the injured worker may be able to pursue full compensation for his or her losses.
In contrast to workers’ comp, a personal injury lawsuit can recover:
- All medical expenses, including medications and rehabilitation
- All lost wages, including lost future earning capacity
- Emotional damages, perhaps for scarring and disfigurement
- Wrongful death benefits, including all lost financial support
After a workplace accident, a free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers can help you better understand your legal options for fair compensation.
The Trustworthy Team at Cellino Law Can Fight for You
If you have been injured in a workplace accident, you need a law firm that you can trust. At Cellino Law, our lawyers have a long track record of delivering proven results for our clients. You don’t need to be a legal expert to successfully win your personal injury case – you can leave that job to us.
When you choose to work with Cellino Law, you can enjoy peace of mind. Especially important, you can focus on your health and your family, knowing that your case is in capable hands.
We want to hear your story. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.