New York City is in the midst of a building boom, with property values and employment opportunities on the upswing, but at what cost?
According to the New York City Buildings Department, this rise in real estate prices and construction activity has been accompanied by a more than 50 percent increase in construction accidents. This increase in accidents is unnecessary, as economic improvement does not have to correspond with higher risk of injury to workers.
Why Has This Happened?
Builders have shifted to more non-union construction crews in order to limit costs and speed up timelines and, there is anecdotal evidence that corners are being cut as well, with an uptick in the suspension of building licenses due construction code violations.
Accountability Is Necessary
People using their trade skills to earn a living in construction should not have to sacrifice their health and safety to keep food on the table. When negligence by supervisors and colleagues leads to injuries and illnesses, they deserve to be fully compensated for their medical bills, lost wages among other damages.
Builders have a duty to take proper precautions for safety, including meeting all building and safety codes. When they fail to do so in order to meet a deadline or save a buck, they should be held accountable.
An experienced NYC personal injury attorney can help you if you have suffered an injury on a construction site.