Electrocution accidents are one of the leading causes of injury on construction sites. Such injuries can be as serious as permanent skin or nerve damage, hearts attack, and even death. If you were electrocuted while on the job and are still suffering through the repercussions, read on to see how one of the experienced Queens construction accident attorneys can help you determine if you have a valid workers’ compensation case on your hands.
What are common electrocution accidents that occur on construction sites?
Electrocution accidents are often caused by negligence by the employer or Labor Law violations on construction sites. Examples of common causes read as follows:
- Contact with overhead or buried power lines or otherwise an energized source.
- Improper use or discarding of extension cords.
- Fallen power lines.
- Exposed wires.
- Electrical outlets in unsafe locations.
However, there are some instances in which electrocution accidents occur due to negligence by the manufacturer of tools or machinery. That is, shorts in electrical appliances or malfunctions in commercial equipment due to manufacturing defects can lead to electrocution. If this is your case, then you would file a third-party claim with one of the skilled Queens personal injury attorneys.
What New York Labor Laws can help my workers’ compensation case?
In the state of New York, there are Labors Laws in place that are intended to protect construction workers on site. If a property owner or contractor is found to be in violation of a Labor Law and you received an electrocution injury as a result, then you may be eligible for a workers’ compensation claim. With the help of a seasoned Queens workers comp attorney, you can receive compensation for economic and non-economic expenses, such as medical bills, past and future missed wages, and pain and suffering. The following are New York Labor Laws that are potentially relevant to your case:
- New York Labor Law 200: Site owners and supervisors are legally required to maintain a safe work environment.
- New York Labor Law 241 (6): Liability is placed on the property owner and general contractor if they are found to be in violation of an industrial code rule, either during the construction, demolition, or excavation phase of a project.
What is the statute of limitations in New York?
Construction workers must report their electrocution injuries to their employer within 30 days of the accident. If they wish to pursue a workers’ compensation claim, the statute of limitations in the state of New York is two years from the date of the accident. For a personal injury claim, this is generally three years from the date of the accident.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. We understand the implications of a serious accident, which is why we take pride in tenaciously representing our clients. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.
