High Winds Pose Danger to New Yorkers, Particularly at Construction Sites

In New York City, there are many dangers that New Yorkers must be aware of. When a “high wind” warning is issued, another danger is added to the list. In recent years, news reports have identified the risks of high winds particularly at construction sites where cranes, equipment and other debris affected by high winds have resulted in catastrophic or fatal accidents. Recently, this warning had to be issued again as reported in the Gothamist.

Under New York law, property owners and construction site owners and workers have a duty to maintain their premises and equipment in a reasonably safe condition to protect those persons lawfully on or in the vicinity of the premises. Specifically, there are laws, rules and regulations as to construction sites which must be followed in “high wind” situations and there could be both criminal and civil repercussions for any violations which cause injury. Construction companies and property owners will vigorously defend such claims saying that there was nothing that could have been done or denying knowledge of the windy condition. These types of assertions can often be refuted with certified weather reports and eyewitness testimony.

Individuals who have suffered an injury due to negligence at a construction site can face a number of hardships. Victims can suffer serious debilitating injuries, such as amputations, severe head trauma, and death. In addition to physical injury, victims of construction accidents may also be forced to deal with financial difficulties, such as lost wages and costly medical bills. Individuals who have suffered any of the aforementioned hardships should seek the counsel of an experienced personal injury lawyer. The accident attorneys at Queller, Fisher, Washor, Fuchs & Kool understand the hardships that victims of construction site accidents face, and are committed to securing them proper compensation for their injuries.

Among the types of compensation available in such a lawsuit::

Lost Wages: Suffering an injury in a construction site accident can cause individuals to miss time at work. In these instances, victims may be able to file a lawsuit to recoup any compensation lost as a result of their injury. Victims may also be eligible to receive compensation for any loss of future earning potential caused by their injury.

Medical Bills: A severe injury can cause victims to face high medical bills that exceed insurance coverage. Individuals who have been injured in a construction accident may be able to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for any surgery, medication, future doctor’s visits and other medical expenses resulting from the injury.

Pain and Suffering: Victims of construction site accidents may be able to file a lawsuit for any lasting pain and suffering incurred by their injury. Pain and suffering includes but is not limited to constant physical pain and loss of life’s enjoyment.

Wrongful Death: When a construction site accident causes injury resulting in death, the victim’s family may have legal recourse. The family can file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for future lost wages, costly medical bills, and pain and suffering.

Union members who have lost their pension or any benefits as a result of a construction accident injury may also be entitled to compensation.

If you should or a loved one have suffered a serious injury sue to negligence of a property owner or a construction site operator, do not hesitate to contact a successful personal injury attorney, you may have legal recourse. For a free consultation please call 212-406-1700 or contact us online. Queller, Fisher, Washor, Fuchs & Kool will evaluate your claim to see how we may be able to help you.