Hurt by a Falling Object While On the Job in New York?

Workers are typically on the lookout for dangers, especially when their job involves physical labor. However, dangers from above in the form of falling objects can strike suddenly and without warning. When the effects of gravity, height, and weight combine, a falling object can inflict serious damage on a worker and leave him or her reeling from sudden injuries and potential disabilities.

In the wake of an incident, injured employees and their families will be left searching for means to cope with their physical losses and financial troubles. Workers' compensation will replace the wages that are lost while being unable to work and pay for medical procedures that need to be done to recover.

Importantly, those who have suffered an on-the-job injury will need to understand the workers' compensation process in New York and what qualifies under its guidelines. Through a free consultation with the construction accident lawyers at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, available by calling (212) 986-7353, you can be better prepared for this process.

Back to Top

Coping with Falling Object Injuries

Falling objects can come in many shapes, sizes, and weight. Depending on the object, a victim could suffer a wide variety of injuries, such as concussions, bone fractures, piercing wounds, and crushing injuries. Head wounds are common due to the nature of these accidents, and even hard hats may not completely protect against heavy objects.

In the wake of an injury, a victim will need to receive medical attention as soon as possible. Even if he or she is able to stand, walk, and talk, it is still highly important that a worker reports to a supervisor, details the accident, and seeks out a doctor. While you may not believe that your injuries are serious, trauma like a concussion can worsen over time if not properly treated. Additionally, if the accident and injuries are not properly documented, you may be unable to prove that the incident occurred at work while you were in the midst of your duties.

The trauma received in a falling object incident can keep a victim from working for weeks, months, or even permanently due to disability. While immediate medical care is needed to prevent serious injuries from becoming fatal, the following days and weeks are equally as important. This will be when he or she recuperates from trauma and better understands the effects of the injury. Through continued medical care, rehabilitation, and learning to live with disabilities, a victim can recover to the best of his or her abilities to return to a fulfilling and successful life.

Back to Top

Common Injuries Caused by Falling Objects on a Construction Site

Even the smallest object can cause serious damage if it falls from a great height. The speed and gravitational drag force of an object can cause a heavy impact upon collision. While it may be a myth that a penny dropped from a skyscraper can kill someone, any object of significant weight can cause severe injury. A list of common falling object injuries include:

  • Head injuries
  • Neck and back injuries
  • Eye injuries
  • Crushing injuries
  • Concussions
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Disfigurement
  • Paralysis
  • Wrongful death

Back to Top

Who Can be Held Liable for Injuries Caused by a Falling Object on a Construction Site?

In most cases, it is the duty of the construction company or contractor to compensate the injured party if their workers unintentionally drop or misplace their tools. Proving that construction company workers were negligent with their equipment or practices can be challenging as many factors can contribute to an accident. Many construction companies may try to shift the blame or offer a settlement that only covers a portion of your expenses. Always discuss your case with a lawyer before accepting any offer.

Back to Top

Obtaining Rightful Workers' Compensation in New York

Beyond bodily damage, an injured worker and his or her dependents will be faced with sudden and serious financial trouble. Not only will he or she be unable to work and receive continued payment but will also be subjected to steep medical bills for procedures.

Through workers' compensation in NY, a worker will be able to receive continued financial support while he or she cannot work. Additionally, this will pay for needed medical procedures, both in the past and those that will be needed in the future.

Proving that injuries deserve workers' compensation can be a complex process, which may end in a denial for legitimate claims due to mistakes. Through the help of a New York falling object injury attorney at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, you can have the best chance to prove your needs and begin the road to recovery. Call us today at (212) 986-7353 and learn more about how we can aid you in coping with your injuries.

Back to Top

Additional Information