Fires/Explosions

Recovering Compensation for Victims of Construction Site Fires or Explosions in New York

Every year, fire departments across the country respond to about 3,750 fires at structures that are under construction, 2,560 that are under renovations and 2,130 that are being demolished. These figures demonstrate the enormous risks of fires and explosions on construction and demolition projects. Fortunately, most of these accidents do not result in injuries. When injuries do occur, contractors are often at fault for either starting the fire or not providing reasonable opportunities for workers to escape injury.

Turley Redmond & Rosasco has close to 30 years of experience recovering personal injury damages and benefits for workers. Our lawyers assess all available resources to recover the maximum possible compensation for your fire or explosion-related injuries.

Fire and Explosion Risks at Construction Sites

Construction sites contain numerous volatile and flammable substances, coupled with multiple energy sources that can easily spark a fire or result in an explosion. Common construction site risks include:

• Electrical arc
• Exposure of electrical wiring
• Soldering and welding equipment
• Gas line break
• Leaking propane tanks
• Fine dust particles in an enclosed space
• Combustible chemicals
• Malfunctioning equipment and tools

Injuries Caused by Fires and Explosions

Fires and explosions are violent events that can cause catastrophic injuries and even death. Our firm commonly handles injury claims involving:

• Third degree burns
• Toxic chemical exposure
• Lung damage from smoke inhalation
• Hearing loss from being near explosion
• Head injuries if thrown during explosion
• Broken bones from fall during explosion

OSHA Investigations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has authority to inspect worksites for dangerous working conditions. Unfortunately, OSHA rarely performs investigations until a serious workplace injury occurs. Our lawyers often use the information contained in reports issued by OSHA and the New York State Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (NY FACE) agency to prove negligence of the construction contractors and property owners.

We also may conduct our own investigations following a construction accident, which have uncovered such common problems as:

• Combustible chemicals improperly stored and handled
• Dangerous construction activities that occur near flammable materials
• Poorly marked gas and electrical lines where workers are digging
• Hazardous buildup of gases or fine particles in unventilated space
• Lack of worker training or supervision
• Insufficient fire extinguishing equipment
• Inadequate or unmarked routes of exit
• Violations of fire safety regulations and common practices

Compensation for Serious Construction Site Injuries

Workers’ compensation provides an important initial resource for medical care and lost wages. You can recover crucial funds from your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance shortly after your accident. These benefits ensure you can receive the emergency care you need and income for temporary disabilities. If your injuries are severe, you may also qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

Typically, workers’ compensation regulations prohibit workers from suing their employers. However, New York’s Scaffold Law makes an exception for construction workers. Your employer and the property owner have absolute liability for your fire or explosion accident. You may also have a claim against a negligent third party that contributed to the hazard, such as an equipment manufacturer or another contractor on the site.

Obtain Your Rightful Damages by Consulting With Our Long Island Construction Accident Lawyers

Your employer and the property owner have an absolute duty to maintain a safe worksite. If a fire or explosion at your worksite injured you, Turley Redmond & Rosasco will help you recover your rightful damages. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with our Long Island construction accident lawyers today with offices in Garden City, Shirley, and Ronkonkoma.