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Request A Call HereAccording to the United Nations, more than half of the world's population now lives in "urban areas," cities and the suburbs of those cities. By 2050, estimates see the global urban population increasing to an astounding 66%. In short, we're moving to cities. And no American city is bigger than New York.
Urban centers promise better jobs, more economic opportunities, better schools, developed infrastructure, and higher living standards. For many of us, they promise better futures for our children. New York City already accounts for a staggering 42.8% of the state's total population. And while NYC is currently one of America's slowest growing cities, our numbers are picking up. We're going to need affordable, quality homes for new residents. We're going to need construction.
Banville Law is an experienced scaffold accident law firm that understands the importance of fighting for compensation if you or someone you love has sustained injuries caused by a construction accident. Learn more about what we have to offer.
Living in the city, construction is simply a fact of life. Chances are you walk or drive past multiple job sites on your daily trip to work. 2014 saw more construction "starts" than either 2013 or 2012, with more than $24 billion invested in the development of new residential and commercial spaces. Chances are we'll be walking by construction sites for a long time to come.
But along with new economic and housing opportunities, construction brings its own set of risks to our sidewalks. Every year, hundreds of pedestrians are severely injured in construction accidents. The main culprit? Falling objects dropped by cranes or the hands of workers.
Unlike construction workers, who are barred from suing their employers after accidents, pedestrians and bystanders have the right to sue negligent landowners, contractors, and construction companies for their injuries. Most of these cases will take the form of personal injury lawsuits.
As a pedestrian, someone "on foot," you have the right to a duty of care from construction workers. As professionals, workers must use their better judgment to reduce the inherent risks of their tasks as much as possible.
With that being said, there are few formal statutes in New York City that refer specifically to pedestrians involved in construction accidents. This sort of case usually falls within the domain of "Common Law," because it's not explicitly covered by criminal laws. Borrowing from an English legal tradition, American courts often uphold standards supported by custom and common reason, especially where actual legislation does not rule.
In this gray area, "negligence" rules the day. If a construction worker, manager, or property owner failed to use the care that another reasonable person would have, you may be able to secure compensation in a personal injury lawsuit.
Were you injured as a pedestrian in New York? Contact the experienced personal injury lawyers at Banville Law for a free consultation. After reviewing your case, we'll let you know if we can help. Call (917) 551-6690 or fill out our contact form.
