What To Do If Heavy Work Equipment Falls On You
Accidents involving heavy work equipment can have devastating consequences, particularly if the machinery falls on a person. It is vital to know what immediate actions to take in such a situation to minimize further injuries and protect your right to compensation. This blog post provides insights on what to do if heavy work equipment falls on you at a New York workplace, emphasizing safety, first aid measures, and the importance of seeking legal representation.
Prioritize Your Safety
If you are injured in New York because of heavy work equipment falling on you, the first step is to prioritize your safety. Take the following actions to protect your well-being and prevent further harm:
- Do Not Panic: While it is natural to feel scared or anxious, try to remain as calm as possible. Panicking can impair your judgment and potentially exacerbate your injuries.
- Assess the Situation: Take a moment to evaluate your surroundings and determine if there are any immediate dangers. Look for potential hazards such as exposed wires, leaking fluids, or unstable structures that may pose additional risks.
- Alert Others: If you are capable, call out for help or use any available means to attract attention from nearby coworkers or passersby. They can assist in notifying emergency services and providing immediate aid.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If heavy work equipment falls on you, you must seek immediate medical attention. Even if you don't initially feel severe pain or notice visible injuries, underlying injuries may exist. Follow these steps:
- Call Emergency Services: Dial the local emergency number or ask someone nearby to call for an ambulance. Inform them about the incident, your location, and the nature of your injuries. It’s essential to communicate that you are trapped under heavy equipment for a swift response.
- Minimize Movement: Avoid moving excessively, as it may worsen your injuries. Wait for emergency medical personnel to arrive and provide guidance before attempting to free yourself.
- Do Not Attempt Self-Extrication: You should refrain from attempting to free yourself from under the heavy equipment without professional assistance. Moving the machinery without proper equipment or training can result in further injuries or complications. Wait for trained emergency personnel to arrive and assess the situation.
- Inform Medical Professionals: Once paramedics arrive, provide them with a detailed account of the incident, and describe any pain, discomfort, sensations, or other symptoms you are experiencing. Be sure to inform them of any pre-existing medical conditions or allergies that may impact your treatment.
Preserve Evidence and Document the Incident
Collecting and preserving evidence is vital for potential legal claims and insurance purposes if you have suffered injuries because of heavy work equipment falling on you. If possible, follow these steps to document the incident:
- Take Photographs: If you have access to a smartphone or camera, take photographs of the accident scene, the position of the heavy equipment, and any visible injuries you have sustained. These photographs can serve as evidence to support your case later on.
- Collect Witness Statements: If there were witnesses to the incident, request their contact information and ask them to provide a written or recorded statement regarding what they saw. Witness testimony can be crucial in establishing liability and supporting your claim.
- Preserve Relevant Documents: Keep copies of any medical records, doctor's notes, hospital bills, and other documentation related to your injuries and treatment. These records will be necessary when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action.
Notify Your Employer
Inform your employer or supervisor about the incident as soon as possible. Provide them with a clear account of what happened, including details about the heavy equipment involved, the location, and any witnesses. Promptly reporting the incident ensures that it’s properly documented and can initiate any necessary workplace investigations.
Follow Medical Recommendations and Rehabilitation
Comply with all medical recommendations, including follow-up appointments, prescribed medications, and rehabilitation plans. Adhering to your healthcare provider's instructions is essential for your recovery and ensures a thorough medical record of your injuries.
Consult with an Experienced Attorney
If you are injured by heavy work equipment, be prepared to consult with an experienced New York attorney specializing in workplace accidents. They will assess the circumstances of your case, evaluate liability, and guide you through the legal process.
They will move fast to secure surveillance camera footage and engage machine engineers and accident reconstruction experts to gather robust evidence of your accident and injuries, and negotiate with the liable parties and insurers from a position of strength.
"The Bull" Delivers Real Results to Injured Victims in New York
If heavy work equipment falls on you and causes injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. At the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, we will leave no stone unturned to achieve the largest possible compensation for you.
Our highly rated heavy work equipment injury lawyer Michael S. Lamonsoff "The Bull" delivers real results. His formidable courtroom presence and persuasive negotiation skills have led to big settlements and verdicts for injured New Yorkers. When you choose Michael S. Lamonsoff, you are choosing a lawyer who gets the job done. Call us at 212-962-1020 or fill out this online form to schedule your free consultation with us today.