A New York construction site is a flurry of controlled chaos. Amid the noise of machinery and the shouts of crew members, workers focus intensely on their tasks. In a split second, however, a stray wood chip, a splash of chemical, or a spark from a welding torch can change everything. An eye injury is not just painful; it is a terrifying event that threatens your vision, your livelihood, and your future. Navigating this crisis may feel impossible, but you do not have to do it alone.
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Understanding the Risks of Eye Injuries in Construction
Construction sites present a unique combination of hazards that can emerge from your own task or from the activities of others working nearby. Understanding these risks is the first step in recognizing how an accident occurred. We frequently see construction eye injuries that result from a wide array of on-site dangers, including:
- Debris propelled by sawing, grinding, or sanding operations;
- Direct contact with unsecured tools or materials falling from above;
- Accidents involving high-pressure air hoses or liquid sprayers; and
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals, welding arcs, or other sources of radiation.
Each of these hazardous conditions can cause injuries ranging from minor irritation to catastrophic vision loss, underscoring the importance of rigorous safety protocols.
What Is the Number One Cause of Eye Injuries for Construction Workers?
When analyzing workplace accidents, a clear pattern emerges. So, what is the number one cause of eye injuries for construction workers? Overwhelmingly, it is being struck by flying or falling objects, since debris is a constant on any job site. Without adequate eye protection or proper containment measures, these particles can easily hit a worker’s eye, causing abrasions, punctures, and internal damage.
Your First Priorities After an Eye Injury at Work
The moments following an eye injury are critical. The steps you take can directly impact both your physical recovery and your ability to pursue a legal compensation claim. Your immediate priority must be your health. Do not attempt to rub your eye or remove an embedded object yourself. Seek emergency medical treatment without delay. A prompt medical evaluation by a qualified professional can prevent further damage and provide an official record of your injury, which is vital for any future legal action.
After seeking medical help, you must report the incident to your supervisor in writing as soon as possible. This action officially documents that the injury occurred at work. You or a coworker should also take photographs of the accident scene, the equipment involved, and any visible debris that caused the injury. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened. This evidence can become invaluable when establishing how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Lawsuits
In New York, most employees injured on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. This system provides coverage for medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. While this is an important safety net, it is important to note that our firm does not handle workers’ compensation claims. Our focus is on a different, and often parallel, path to justice: third-party personal injury lawsuits.
Workers’ compensation laws generally prevent you from suing your employer after an on-the-job injury. However, you may have the right to file a lawsuit against another party whose negligence contributed to your injury. These “third parties” can include:
- A property owner,
- A general contractor,
- A subcontractor,
- An equipment manufacturer, and
- An architect or engineer.
Unlike workers’ compensation, a successful third-party lawsuit can allow you to recover additional damages. New York labor law provides specific protections for construction workers, such as the general duty to provide a safe workplace and rules for specific construction, demolition, and excavation work. An investigation can determine if a violation of these statutes or other negligence caused construction eye injuries.
What Compensation Can You Pursue for Eye Injuries in Construction?
The financial and personal impact of a serious eye injury can be staggering. A third-party claim allows you to seek compensation that addresses the total effect the injury has on your life, far beyond what workers’ compensation covers. We can help you secure the financial resources you need to address both current and future challenges. The potential compensation for eye injuries in construction can cover a broad range of losses. A comprehensive claim may include recovery for the following damages:
- Past and future medical expenses. This includes everything from emergency room visits and surgeries to ongoing medication, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
- Full lost wages and benefits. The total income you have lost and will lose due to an inability to work is also recoverable.
- Diminished earning capacity. If the injury prevents you from returning to your previous job, you can seek compensation for the difference in lifetime earnings.
- Pain and suffering. This compensates you for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the injury.
- Loss of enjoyment of life. A serious eye injury can impact your ability to participate in hobbies and daily activities, and you can be compensated for this loss.
Pursuing these damages is about securing your financial stability and holding the responsible parties accountable for the harm they caused.
A Legacy of Advocacy for New York’s Injured Construction Workers
For over 65 years, Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers has been dedicated to providing strong, compassionate legal representation to clients in the suburbs of New York. With bilingual staff fluent in Spanish, we are prepared to serve our entire community with the dignity and determination it deserves.
Let Us Help You Move Forward Today
Our experienced attorneys are here to help you understand your legal rights and explore all available options for recovering the compensation you need. Contact Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers today for a consultation to learn how we can fight for you.
