Construction accidents can occur in a wide variety of ways, and many serious accidents and injuries result from negligence. One common type of construction accident that can be especially devastating is an accident that results in an electrocution. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cites electrocution as “part of the Focus Four Hazards for construction because of the persistence and significance of this hazard.” Whether you work in construction and suffered an electrical injury or you lost a loved one in an accident involving an electrocution on a construction site, it is important to learn more about these accidents and how best to seek compensation. The following are five things to know about electrocutions in construction accidents.
Electrocutions are a Leading Cause of Death on Construction Sites
Electrocutions are one of the leading causes of death on construction sites. Indeed, according to the Center for Construction Research and Training, “electrocutions are the fourth leading cause of death among construction workers in the United States,” and an “average of 143 construction workers are killed each year by contact with electricity.”
Electrocution Injuries and Deaths are on the Rise
Data from the CDC shows a general decline in electrocution deaths on construction sites between 2004 and 2012, but since 2012, the rate of electrocutions has increased steadily again. In fact, as the CDC points out, in the construction industry, “105 electricians died of electrocution from 2011 to 2015, more than any other construction occupation.”
Many Different Jobs on Construction Sites Can Pose Electrocution Risks
A wide variety of construction jobs pose electrocution risks. The CDC notes that powerline installers are at highest risk of an electrocution death or electrical injury, as well as electricians, telecom-line installers, roofers, heat and air conditioning workers or HVAC mechanics, and general laborers.
Electrocutions Have Different Causes on Construction Sites
Causes of electrocution injuries and deaths on construction sites have different causes, according to the CDC. Those include direct contact with a power source, as well as indirect contact with electrical equipment like circuit breakers and transformers. Many electrocutions result from negligent training or improper attention to safety equipment or standards.
You May be Able to Sue Your Employer for Negligence Under New York Labor Law
Although most injured workers in New York cannot sue an employer for negligence, it is critical to know that New York Labor Law allows injured construction workers (or their survivors) to seek compensation from a negligent employer. Depending upon the specific cause of the construction accident and the electrocution or electrical injury, you may be able to file a lawsuit under Section 200, 240, or 241 of New York Labor Law. An experienced New York construction accident attorney can discuss the details of your case with you.
Contact a Construction Accident Attorney in New York
Were you seriously harmed in an electrical accident on a construction site, or did you lose a loved one in an electrocution injury on a construction site? You should discuss your case with one of our New York construction accident attorneys as soon as possible. Contact Leitner Varughese Warywoda PLLC for more information.
