Demolition work is one of the most hazardous parts of the construction industry, often involving heavy equipment, explosives, and unstable structures. When safety measures are ignored, serious accidents can occur, resulting in life-changing injuries or death. Common causes include falling debris, machinery failure, and inadequate supervision. If you or a loved one has been injured in a demolition accident on Long Island, Dell & Dean, PLLC is here to help. Our attorneys can evaluate your case and guide you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Common Types and Causes of Demolition Accidents
There are several common types and causes of demolition accidents, all of which can result in serious injuries and even death. Some of the most common types and causes of demolition accidents in New York include:
- Blasting accidents
- Jackhammer accidents
- Poorly maintained or defective equipment
- Insufficient overhead protection
- Failure to brace properly
- Lack of supervision
- Inadequate training
- Use of intoxicating substances
- Explosions
- Falls from scaffolding and ladders
- Poor communication
Demolition Accident Compensation Options
If you’ve been injured in a demolition accident in New York, you may have multiple compensation options. For example:
- You may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the construction site owner or a contractor to recover payment for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages and benefits. You may be able to do this even if the owner or contractor had nothing to do with your injuries.
- You may be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits to cover your medical expenses and lost wages while you’re out of work.
- If your demolition accident resulted in a disability, you may be able to file for Social Security Disability benefits.
Types of Compensation
As noted above, you may be entitled to compensation following a demolition accident in New York. The two primary sources of compensation following a demolition accident are workers’ compensation and a personal injury lawsuit.
Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is available for most types of construction accidents in New York. Following a demolition accident in New York, you may be entitled to the following types of workers’ compensation benefits:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Death benefits
Personal Injury Lawsuit
Depending on the circumstances of your demolition accident, you may also be entitled to compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit. Damages that may be available to you through a personal injury lawsuit include:
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future lost wages, including benefits
- Past and future medical expenses
- Punitive damages in cases involving extreme circumstances
Third-Party Claims
As noted above, if a third party is responsible for your injuries, you may be entitled to seek compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit. Potentially responsible parties in a third-party lawsuit include:
- Subcontractors
- Engineers
- Property owners
- Contractors
- Architects
- Equipment manufacturers
The Bottom Line
Following a demolition accident in New York, you may be entitled to compensation via workers’ compensation and a personal injury lawsuit. However, to ensure that you explore all avenues for financial compensation, it is imperative that you contact an experienced New York demolition accident attorney for assistance.
Contact a Long Island Demolition Accident Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a demolition accident on Long Island, Dell & Dean, PLLC, is here for you. At Dell & Dean, PLLC, our experienced demolition accident lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to obtain financial compensation on your behalf. Please contact us to arrange an initial consultation with a construction accident attorney.
Dell & Dean, PLLC, represents personal injury victims throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island, as well as the boroughs of New York City and the surrounding areas.