The construction industry consistently ranks among those with the most workplace accidents, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And falls are among the most common causes of injuries among construction workers.

A 42-year-old worker at a Queens construction site was fatally injured when he fell 15 feet through a hole in a floor and struck a steel girder, according to the New York Daily News.  The New York City Department of Buildings issued a stop work order pending the outcome of an investigation.

In 2011, 541 workers lost their lives as a result of falls to lower levels, as was the case in the Queens fatality. Half of those fatal falls were from 10 to 30 feet.

New York Construction Fall Accidents

Construction workers are more at risk for a fall injury or fatality than most other industries because of the very nature of the work. A construction site frequently lacks stable flooring or may not have any floor at all. Injuries at New York and New Jersey construction sites also commonly occur as a result of slipping off a roof or falling from a ladder.  Employers and supervisors are required by law to provide protection to workers to limit the risk of a fall. If safety precautions are not taken, a worker who suffers injuries as a result may be entitled to compensation.

If you have been injured in a fall accident on a construction site, you could be entitled to third-party compensation in lieu of, or in addition to, workers’ compensation. All too often, workers’ compensation benefits fail to adequately compensate the victim of a construction accident. There is a chance that someone other than your own employer may have contributed to your injuries and may be held responsible.

Contact the New York / New Jersey construction accident attorneys at Ginarte Gonzalez Winograd L.L.P., to find out what legal options you may have. With seven offices conveniently located in the New York / New Jersey metropolitan area, we have an office near you. You can also fill out our online contact form.