In 2019, the Long Island region of saw steady job growth. The Department of Labor of New York reported that 7,700 jobs were added in Nassau and Suffolk counties last December. Included in the job growth was an increase in employment for the construction industry. Between November 2018 and November 2019, 6,400 jobs were added in the region. This growth follows a national trend of construction job growth overall. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 44,000 construction jobs have been added across the nation in January alone.
Along with the surge of construction jobs in New York, there has unfortunately been an increase in worksite deaths as well. In New York City alone, worksite death increased 33 percent over the last five years. Workplace injuries in NYC have more than tripled in the same time span. Overall, more than 500 employees have developed an occupational illness or have become the victim of a workplace injury.
New York labor laws require that worksite owners and contractors provide adequate equipment for their workers and payments if injured. Whenever an injury results from unsafe work conditions, an employee could be entitled to compensation. While some workers’ compensation agreements may not allow for an injured worker to sue their employer, they could still be entitled to compensation in another manner. An injured employee could also pursue a lawsuit against a negligent third party that contributed to an accident.
Construction sites may also increase the chance of a pedestrian being injured from a tripping hazard, falling object, or another risk. Both private and commercial property owners have a duty of care to maintain a reasonably safe environment. Whenever an injury results from the recklessness or negligence of another, you could be entitled to compensation to help cover damages.
An injury caused by a construction site could have a lasting impact on an employee or pedestrian’s life. If you or a loved one was injured in a work accident or another construction-related incident, call the experienced attorneys at Goldstein & Bashner. Our knowledgeable legal team could be able to guide you through the legal process and help recover the maximum amount of compensation possible. Contact us today to set up a consultation.
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