A construction accident attorney in NYC provides the details

Among construction accidents, electrocution remains one of the top factors in serious worker injuries and fatalities. Electrocution is responsible for at least 1 out of 8 New York City construction worker deaths in 2020, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation.

Common electrocution causes

Across the U.S., the construction industry poses unique risks to workers. The government has established best practices and regulations designed to keep workers safe, but these rules are frequently ignored.

For instance, in June 2020 a Brooklyn homeowner hired an unlicensed contractor to install high hat lighting in their home. The worker was in the cockloft of the home putting in new wiring when he cut an existing wire that was still energized. The worker was electrocuted and ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

In 2019, there were about 1,900 serious electrical injuries reported nationwide. Industries that pose the highest risk of worker electrocution and injury include construction and utilities.

The 5 main electrical hazards construction workers face include:

• Making contact with power lines
• Lack of ground-fault protection
• Electrical equipment is not properly grounded or the path has been broken.
• Misuse of equipment, such as using outdoor equipment inside or using an ungrounded two-prong adapter on extension cords and tools that require three prongs.
• Using worn-out extension cords and flexible cords.

Electrocutions can result in severe injuries that can take days or weeks from which to recover. The parts of the body that are most likely to have damage are the head, neck, trunk, spine, knees, hands, and internal organs.

Compensation after an electrical accident at work

When someone is seriously injured by electricity while on the job, they are almost certainly eligible for workers' compensation benefits. This state-run program provides compensation for work accident-related medical expenses and lost wages.

If you lost a loved one in an electrical accident, you may be owed workers' compensation death benefits. Death benefits can help pay for funeral costs and certain medical expenses. There may also be money available to offset the lost contributions of the deceased.

In the construction industry, an injured worker may also be able to file a civil lawsuit against a negligent third party, such as a subcontractor, parts manufacturer, inspector, or trucker.

Legal help is available in NYC

If you are a New York City construction worker who was electrocuted while on the job, you have the right to seek workers' compensation benefits. The problem is the process of obtaining benefits can be complex. All it takes is one mistake or a missed deadline, and you could lose out on the benefits you deserve.

At Keogh Crispi, P.C., we have a reputation for helping injured construction workers when they need it the most. We know the ins and outs of the workers' compensation system, and we know how to build strong cases that get results.

If you were injured in an electrical accident on a construction site due to the negligence of a third party, we can also fight to hold them accountable for your injuries.

The key is to talk to us as soon as possible so you can get a clear understanding of your legal rights and options. To find out how we can help you, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced New York construction accident lawyer.