What Are Common Causes of Heavy Machinery Accidents?

Construction sites are inherently dangerous places where workers are often exposed to various hazards, including heavy machinery. While heavy machinery is an essential part of construction work, it can also be a significant source of accidents and injuries. Below, the experienced personal injury attorneys at SPBMCC discuss the common causes of heavy machinery accidents and how a New York City construction accident attorney or construction site injury lawyer can help if you have suffered a heavy machinery injury.

Heavy Machinery Injuries Often Caused By Lack of Proper Training

Incidents involving large industrial machines can happen differently, causing anything from minor bumps and bruises to life-threatening or even fatal injuries. For example, a worker could get trapped between two or more heavy objects or struck by a heavy object or equipment, such as a falling crane load. Other potential job hazards include electrical accidents, fires, explosions, overturning accidents, and even equipment failures.

These accidents, known as heavy machinery injuries, can be avoided with proper training. However, this is only sometimes the case. Despite the critical need for heavy machinery operators to receive adequate training on safely operating their equipment, many employers fail to provide thorough training and allow workers to operate machinery without the necessary certifications.

In addition to needing more training, proper communication can contribute to heavy machinery accidents. Employers need to establish clear lines of communication between workers and ensure that all workers understand the importance of communication in preventing accidents.

Other common reasons for heavy machinery accidents include:

• Equipment Malfunction: Heavy machinery is often subject to wear and tear, and if it is not adequately maintained, it can malfunction, causing serious accidents and injuries. Employers are responsible for ensuring all equipment is appropriately maintained and in good working order.
• Improper Use of Machinery: Machine operators that fail to use them in the intended manner or it without proper safety precautions can cause serious accidents and injuries.
• Fatigue: Heavy machinery operators who work long hours without sufficient rest, are fatigued, or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be a significant source of accidents. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their workers are well-rested and alert and should take steps to prevent workers from working while under the influence.

No matter the cause of a heavy machinery accident, it is essential to reach out to a New York City construction accident attorney or construction site injury lawyer who can provide legal advice and representation, as well as help victims seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. 

What Should I Do Following a Heavy Machinery Injury?

Injuries from heavy machinery can be devastating, but taking the necessary steps to ensure your safety and well-being is essential. Seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to your employer so that it is documented. Once you are safe, it is crucial to contact a personal injury attorney who can look into whether you are eligible to receive compensation for your injuries.

If you have suffered a heavy machinery injury at a construction site, it is essential to seek the help of a New York City construction accident attorney or construction site injury lawyer, as these attorneys have knowledge and experience that can help you recover compensation for your injuries and losses. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and assist you in navigating the legal process.

Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer

It is important to consult with a personal injury attorney to determine your legal options. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation for injuries sustained from heavy machinery accidents. Be patient and trust the legal process. Your attorney will work to achieve the best possible outcome and can help you file a lawsuit.

Contact the New York Construction Industry Lawyers at SPBMCC Today

As a full-service personal injury law firm, Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C. specializes in all areas of personal injury, including product liability. Our dedicated litigation support teams diligently and vigorously represent clients, including matters related to 9/11-related illness, personal injury, car accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, product liability, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, and Suffolk counties, as well as New Jersey. To learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with an attorney, contact us today.