When it comes to construction, you’ll hardly find a better city to work in than New York City. Whether they’re making a single-family home or a commercial building, the construction industry in NYC has boomed in recent years. With the increase in business, especially a business that can be extremely dangerous, there’s no question why the New York State government has introduced several different measures to protect workers and victims while making it easier to hold business owners accountable.

One notable measure is Labor Law 240, otherwise known as the “Scaffold Law.”

What Is Labor Law 240?

Labor Law 240 is a simple law with a far-reaching impact. In essence, it serves to protect workers who are at risk for falling while at work, placing the liability for any fall-related accident firmly on the shoulders of the company or building owner.

In an effort to preserve the safety of workers from falls and other “gravity-related injuries,” Scaffolding Law indicates that it is the responsibility of the employer to install certain safety equipment, like scaffolding, which has a maximum weight capacity of four times the total weight of workers and materials when in use.

Unsurprisingly, this law is controversial among those who must bear the consequences. Since they must bear total liability for fall-related accidents, construction companies may be dissuaded from choosing NYC as the next site for their projects. However, it’s an important piece of legislation that protects the rights of workers and makes it easier for victims to receive the financial compensation they need after a serious injury.

After a Construction Accident, Choose a Construction Lawyer

At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we have years of experience helping victims of falls get the help they need. Philip Russotti, partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, obtained a staggering $18 million for his clients, a 42-year-old construction worker and his spouse. After falling three stories, Phil’s client suffered several debilitating injuries, including osteomyelitis, neuroma, and a herniated disk in his back. Through strategic and aggressive representation, we won a verdict that placed the responsibility squarely on the defendants. Phil Russotti was able to help his clients get financial compensation that covered their medical expenses and even the pain and suffering caused by this event.

Our team at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, is dedicated to helping anyone who is suffering from injuries caused by a fall at a construction site. We want to fight your case and make sure that the right parties are held accountable for your injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured at a construction site, it’s best to act now. Call us at (212) 986-7353 to get started.