New York Electrocution Accident Liability
Determining who is legally responsible after an electrocution accident on a construction site can be complex. The construction industry in New York involves multiple parties, and it is not uncommon for each party to try to avoid responsibility when an accident occurs. At Cohen & Cohen, we take great care to identify all responsible parties so that our clients receive the full compensation they deserve.
In this article, we will break down the key parties who may be held liable for electrocution accidents and explain how our legal team at Cohen & Cohen goes to great lengths to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.
If you have been injured in a New York electrocution accident, contact our Queens construction accident attorneys for a Free Consultation.
Thorough Investigations to Find Every Liable Party
When an electrocution accident happens, it’s critical to examine every possible party that could be held responsible. At Cohen & Cohen, we are committed to thoroughly investigating every angle of your case. This includes looking into past cases and deeds to identify any parties who have a history of liability in similar situations. We don’t rely on surface-level information. Our team digs deep to uncover every potential responsible party, from contractors and subcontractors to utility companies.
By examining prior incidents and company records, we identify patterns of negligence and hold those accountable. We leave no stone unturned and make sure you have the best chance to receive the compensation you deserve.
Strict Liability Under New York Labor Law 240
New York’s Labor Law Section 240 provides critical protection to workers who are exposed to certain risks while working at heights. Under this law, if a worker is injured due to an electrical hazard while working on a scaffold or ladder, the property owner and general contractor may be strictly liable. This means that they cannot avoid responsibility by blaming the worker for not following safety protocols, such as using a harness.
In the case of an electrocution accident involving a fall, the property owner and general contractor are required by law to ensure that safety measures are in place. This includes enforcing safety rules, providing the necessary equipment, and making sure that workers are properly trained to handle electrical hazards.
At Cohen & Cohen, we ensure that these responsible parties are held accountable for their role in the accident. By focusing on strict liability, we can more effectively pursue electrocution compensation for our clients.
Potential Liable Parties in Electrocution Cases
When an electrocution accident occurs on a construction site, multiple parties may be held liable, depending on the circumstances of the case. These parties can include:
Property Owners
Property owners have a legal obligation to ensure that the construction site is reasonably safe for workers. They must ensure that electrical hazards are properly controlled and that the site complies with all safety regulations. If the property owner fails to provide safe working conditions, they can be held responsible for any injuries, including electrocution accidents.
General Contractors
General contractors are responsible for overseeing the work on the site and ensuring that safety protocols are being followed. They are required to supervise the work, enforce safety rules, and ensure that workers are using the proper equipment to stay safe. If a general contractor fails to fulfill these duties and an electrocution accident occurs, they can be held liable.
Subcontractors
In some cases, subcontractors are responsible for specific areas of a project. If a subcontractor controls the work environment where the accident took place, such as electrical work or scaffolding, they can also be held responsible for the accident. Subcontractors have a duty to maintain safe working conditions within their area of responsibility.
Utility Companies or Electrical Contractors
Utility companies or electrical contractors are often responsible for ensuring that power lines are de-energized before any work begins. If a utility company fails to shut off electrical lines properly or provides unsafe working conditions, it can be held liable for any electrocution accidents that occur. Cohen & Cohen frequently investigates whether these companies complied with safety standards, particularly when electrical hazards are involved.
Municipal Entities (City, State, or Public Authority)
When the project involves a municipal entity, such as a city, state, or public authority, there are specific legal requirements. Cohen & Cohen understands that these cases require additional steps, such as filing a timely Notice of Claim, which is necessary to pursue legal action against a government entity. We are well-versed in handling these unique situations and make sure all deadlines and procedural requirements are met to protect our clients’ rights.
Why Liability Matters
Electrocution accidents often lead to severe injuries that can permanently alter a worker’s life. The effects of a serious electrocution injury can include debilitating burns, brain damage, loss of motor function, and even death. These types of injuries not only cause physical pain but also impact a worker’s ability to earn a living and care for their family.
That’s why it’s crucial to identify all parties responsible for the accident. Full compensation depends on holding the right parties accountable for their negligence. If the proper parties are not pursued, workers could lose out on substantial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care.
At Cohen & Cohen, we go the extra mile to ensure that every liable party is identified. We review past cases, examine deeds, and investigate individuals with a history of failing to uphold safety regulations to ensure that all avenues for recovery are explored. When you work with us, you can be confident that we are dedicated to pursuing every potential source of compensation.
Your Recovery is Our Priority.
At Cohen & Cohen, we believe your rights deserve elite protection. Based in Queens and serving all of New York, our New York personal injury law firm is built on integrity and a relentless drive for excellence. We don’t just settle cases; we build them for success from day one. Whether through strategic negotiation or high-stakes litigation and appeals, our proven track record ensures you receive the maximum compensation possible. We handle the complexities, including medical liens, so you can focus on healing.
Contact Cohen & Cohen for Legal Assistance
If you’ve been injured by electrocution on a construction site, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At Cohen & Cohen, we specialize in investigating complex cases and identifying all responsible parties, regardless of the number of layers of responsibility involved.
Don’t let your case go underinvestigated. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.