Foot injuries are some of the most common construction site injuries in New York. These accidents are often costly regarding medical expenses, lost productivity, and physical consequences for the affected worker, outlining the importance of workers’ compensation and third-party liability claims.
Causes of workplace foot injuries
The human foot is a complex machine with 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than a hundred muscles, tendons and ligaments. This anatomical structure makes construction site injuries involving the feet particularly painful and slow to heal fully. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified six common work-related injuries and their causes:
- Crushed or broken feet or amputations from falling objects, vehicles, or feet trapped between objects
- Loose nails, metal or glass puncturing the sole of the foot
- Chain saws, mower, or machinery cutting or severing toes and feet
- Electric shocks
- Burns from molten metal, chemicals, and contact with fire or flammable atmospheres
- Sprains, fractures and broken bones caused by slippery floors, poor lighting, trash heaps, or incorrect footwear
Additional foot injuries can occur in high-risk outdoor jobs like logging, fishing and hydro line work.
Recent studies of workplace foot injuries indicate that typical medical costs associated with average foot injuries were nearly $11,000, with permanent partial disability awards at just over $8,500. Lawsuit settlements averaged $17,435, but the amounts awarded varied widely.
Employers have a duty to keep you safe
Your employer has a responsibility to provide you with proper footwear, leggings and other personal protective equipment to reduce injuries. Additionally, contractors that may be on the construction site may incur third-party liability if their actions contributed to your injury.
If you believe that your employer or a contractor was negligent in providing a safe work environment, you may have a valid claim. You may be able to receive compensation from both.