Staten Island Manufacturing Accident Attorney

Common Causes of Manufacturing Accidents

Understanding the causes of manufacturing accidents can help employers and employees take preventative measures. Some of the most common causes include:

• Lack of Proper Training – Insufficient training can lead to employees using machinery incorrectly or failing to follow safety procedures.
• Defective Equipment – Poorly maintained or defective machinery can malfunction and cause serious injuries.
• Unsafe Work Conditions – Cluttered workspaces, lack of proper safety barriers, and failure to follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations increase the risk of accidents.
• Negligent Supervision – Employers who fail to enforce safety standards put workers at risk.
• Overexertion and Fatigue – Long shifts and demanding physical labor can lead to exhaustion, increasing the likelihood of mistakes and injuries.
• Lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Not providing or enforcing the use of PPE, such as gloves, helmets, and safety goggles, can result in preventable injuries.

How Workers' Compensation Works After a Manufacturing Accident in NY

If you suffer a workplace injury in a manufacturing accident, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits under New York law. Workers' compensation provides financial support to employees injured on the job, covering expenses such as:

• Medical Bills – Hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing medical treatments.
• Lost Wages – A portion of your lost income if you are unable to work due to your injury.
• Disability Benefits – Compensation for temporary or permanent disabilities caused by the accident.
• Death Benefits – Support for the families of workers who suffer fatal workplace accidents.

To secure workers' compensation benefits, you must:

1. Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
2. Seek medical attention and obtain documentation of your injuries.
3. File a workers' compensation claim with the New York State Workers' Compensation Board.

While workers' compensation covers many injury-related expenses, it does not provide compensation for pain and suffering. If a third party (such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer) was responsible for your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for additional damages.

Can You File a Lawsuit After a Manufacturing Accident?

Workers' compensation typically prevents employees from suing their employers directly. However, there are certain situations where you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit, including:

• Defective Equipment Claims – If faulty machinery or equipment caused your injury, you may have a product liability case against the manufacturer.
• Negligent Third-Party Claims – If a subcontractor, supplier, or other third party contributed to your accident, you may pursue compensation from them.
• Toxic Exposure Claims – If exposure to dangerous chemicals or substances led to illness, you might be eligible for additional compensation beyond workers' compensation benefits.

An experienced Staten Island manufacturing accident lawyer can evaluate your case and determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim in addition to your workers' compensation benefits.