Construction sites in New York City are bustling with activity but can also be fraught with danger. Every year, numerous workers suffer severe injuries due to falls, equipment failures, and other hazards. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, you may be overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. One of your most pressing questions is, Who can I sue after a construction accident in NYC? Understanding your legal rights and identifying the liable parties is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we specialize in helping victims of construction accidents navigate the complexities of New York law. Our dedicated attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, identify who is responsible for construction accidents, and fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you need to move forward.
What Is a Construction Accident?
A construction accident is any incident that occurs on a construction site that results in injury or harm to workers, visitors, or passersby. These accidents can range from minor injuries to severe, life-threatening conditions. Common causes include falls from heights, being struck by falling objects, equipment malfunctions, electrocutions, and exposure to hazardous materials.
Construction accidents often result from unsafe working conditions, inadequate safety measures, or human error. Understanding the nature and causes of these accidents is essential for determining liability and pursuing appropriate legal action to secure compensation for the injured parties.
Who Is Liable for Construction Accident Damages?
Determining liability can be complex when a construction accident occurs due to the number of parties involved in a construction project. Victims may hold multiple parties responsible for damages in New York, depending on the circumstances. Here, we outline the primary parties you might be able to hold liable.
General Contractors and Subcontractors
General contractors and subcontractors play a pivotal role in maintaining safety on construction sites. They are responsible for ensuring that the work environment is safe, that workers follow all safety protocols, and that they receive adequate training. If a contractor or subcontractor fails in these duties, they can be held liable for accidents resulting from their negligence.
Property Owners
In New York, property owners must maintain a safe environment on their premises, including construction sites. This duty extends to ensuring that the site complies with all safety regulations and that any known hazards are addressed promptly. If they neglect these responsibilities and an accident occurs, property owners can be liable for injuries.
Equipment Manufacturers
Defective or malfunctioning equipment is a common cause of construction accidents. When machinery or tools fail, the consequences can be severe. The manufacturer of the defective equipment can be held liable for design defects, manufacturing defects, or lack of adequate warnings or instructions.
Engineers and Architects
Engineers and architects are integral to the design and planning of construction projects. Their professional duties include ensuring that the design complies with safety standards and that the construction plans are executed correctly. If an accident occurs due to a design flaw or failure to adhere to safety regulations, these professionals can be held accountable for their negligence.
Safety Consultants
Safety consultants are often hired to assess and mitigate risks on construction sites. They are responsible for identifying potential hazards, implementing safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. If a safety consultant fails to identify a hazard or inadequately addresses safety concerns, and that leads to an accident, they can be held liable for their negligence.
Utilities and Service Providers
Utilities and service providers are critical in ensuring that essential services such as electricity, gas, and water are safely managed on construction sites. Suppose an accident occurs due to a utility company or service provider’s negligence, such as improper installation or maintenance of utility lines. In that case, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Third Parties
Sometimes, other third parties may be responsible for construction accidents. For example, if a delivery truck driver causes an accident on a construction site, the driver and their employer might be liable. Similarly, if an outside maintenance crew’s negligence leads to unsafe conditions, they could also be responsible for any injuries.
Wondering Who You Can Sue After a Construction Accident? Contact Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C.
Navigating the aftermath of a construction accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of excellence and have been recognized for our accomplishments by being selected for the New York Metro Rising Stars Super Lawyers and NY Top 40 Under 40 Award.
Our firm has recovered millions of dollars for our clients. We will thoroughly investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and build a strong claim on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through this challenging time by protecting your rights.