Falling Objects

Construction workers spend most of their days around and under equipment and machinery and are at an increased risk for being hit by falling objects.  Falling objects, such as falling tools, falling buckets, falling lumber, falling steel, falling bolts, falling equipment, and falling debris, can often result in serious head trauma, concussion, broken bones, neck injuries, and back injuries.  These injuries can require surgery, along with months of missed work and painful rehabilitation.  In the worst cases, the injuries are permanent and the construction worker can no longer work in his or her trade. 

There are many different reasons for falling objects on a job site.  They can be due to: 

• jobsite hazards;
• property owner negligence;
• general contractor mistakes;
• subcontractor errors;
• co-worker carelessness;
• violation of OSHA regulations;
• violation of industrial code regulations;
• distraction due to commotion, long hours and tight deadlines;
• loud noise;
• bad weather;
• poor lighting; and
• poor safety training or no safety training.

New York State has special laws, known as “Labor Laws” that protect construction workers from injury or, if injured, that permit construction workers to recover from some or all of the people or companies that caused or contributed to their injury.  The specific provisions of the New York State Labor Law are: 

• Section 200;
• Section 240; and
• Section 241(6).

Section 200 is a general provision that requires jobsite owners and contractors, and their agents, to provide a safe workplace for construction workers and lawful visitors, and imposes liability for injuries sustained at an unsafe workplace.  Section 240 is a specific provision concerning precautions that must be taken to prevent construction site falls, or falls from a height, and liability for fall-related injuries.  Section 241(6) is a specific provision concerning steps that must be taken to ensure compliance with the New York State Industrial Code, and liability for violations of the New York State Industrial Code.

The trial lawyers at Bottar Law, PLLC, have decades of experience investigating, prosecuting and trying to verdict cases involving injuries sustained due to falling objects.  If you or a loved have been injured while working at a jobsite, you and your family may be entitled to compensation for lifelong health care, medical expenses, medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. 

To discuss your case or concerns with an experienced Central New York construction site accident attorney, contact us now at (315) 422-3466, (800) 336-LAWS, or by e-mail at info@bottarleone.com.