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Construction sites in New York are dangerous places. They present a variety of equipment and devices that are dangerous if not operated correctly, including explosives.
Fires and explosions may sound like a far-fetched thing to worry about on a construction site, but the truth is that they happen more than you may think. Many of the injuries that occur on construction sites each year are the result of explosions and fires.
Here’s what you need to know about explosions on construction sites in New York including what your options are if you’re injured in this type of tragic accident.
When construction site fires occur, they pose a serious risk of injury to those around them and even death. The issue is that almost every construction site fire and subsequent explosion is preventable and are caused by something simple such as failure to extinguish a flame or leaving a cigarette burning. Faulty wiring or electrical shorts also cause fires that can lead to explosions. Furthermore, explosions can be caused by abandoned underground gas lines, improperly stored chemicals, demolition accidents, pressurized containers, or old electrical systems in some buildings.
Victims of fires and explosions on construction sites can suffer physical injuries such as burns, but as they are recovering they often suffer more through lost wages and other damages such as mounting medical bills.
When construction workers are injured on a construction site due to an explosion or fire, they can typically collect workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits don’t require the worker to prove who or what caused their injuries, only that they happened as they were working.
Workers’ compensation pays for medical bills and some percentage of lost wages for the worker as they recover and may also pay a small amount of disability, either temporary or permanent.
It’s important to note, however, that workers’ compensation isn’t your only option. You may be able to pursue a personal injury claim in some circumstances. It’s important to note that if you receive workers’ compensation, then you are likely not eligible to sue your employer for negligence or a coworker who may have caused your injuries. However, you can collect both workers’ compensation and sue a third party who may have been responsible for your injuries, such as the manufacturer of a piece of equipment if it was faulty, property owners who were negligent, and subcontractors or contractors.
If you want to explore suing a third party for your injuries due to an explosion on a construction site, you may be wondering what types of damages you can sue for. In these cases, you can attempt to get compensation for things such as:
The aftermath of a construction site fire and explosion can be very challenging. You will likely be in great pain and uncertain about your future. But this is the time to get an experienced attorney involved in your case to help you get the compensation you deserve for such a life-altering accident.
Make sure to bring a lawyer onto your case as soon as you can, even before you start the process for workers’ compensation just so you can make sure your best interests are always a priority.
