Construction work has unique risks, and the injuries suffered by workers are often severe. That’s why New York has special protections for construction workers. This legal framework provides injured construction workers with opportunities for recovery that go beyond standard workplace protections.
The New York City construction accident lawyers at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, have been representing injured construction workers for over 50 years and secured impressive verdicts and settlements for our clients
Why Construction Sites Are So Dangerous
Construction work is consistently ranked among the most hazardous jobs in the country. There are many risks that workers face, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified what they call the Fatal Four worksite hazards:
- Falls from heights
- Being struck by objects
- Electrocutions
- Caught-in or between equipment
In New York City, where building and infrastructure projects often involve scaffolds, cranes, and high-rise structures, these risks multiply. Local construction sites frequently bring together heavy machinery, unstable structures, dangerous heights, and dozens of contractors in close proximity. Safety regulations are often overlooked in the effort to save money and meet tight deadlines.
Compensation for Injured Construction Workers
Workers’ compensation benefits provide coverage for medical treatment and partial wage replacement, but they do not allow you to sue your employer for damages. But thanks to Labor Law 240 and other legal provisions, you may have the right to file lawsuits against property owners, general contractors, and other responsible parties.
The laws in New York allow construction workers to pursue damages such as:
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
The Scaffold Law
Labor Law 240 is commonly known as the Scaffold Law. This is one of the most important tools in NYC construction accident law. The law places liability on property owners and general contractors when a worker is injured due to elevation-related risks
Under the Scaffold Law, a number of parties are responsible for ensuring proper safety measures are in place to prevent falls from ladders, scaffolds, roofs, as well as injuries caused by falling objects.
Construction Site Accidents in NYC
Unlike typical workers’ compensation claims, state law provides unique protections for construction workers, allowing them to pursue claims directly against negligent property owners, general contractors, or other responsible parties.
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we have seen firsthand how these laws can provide injured workers with the ability to recover the full measure of their damages, not just limited benefits.
Some of the most common accidents we handle include:
- Scaffold collapses and falls from scaffolds: One of the leading causes of catastrophic injuries, often resulting in broken bones, spinal trauma, or brain injuries.
- Ladder falls due to defective equipment or lack of proper safety devices: Improperly secured or poorly maintained ladders are a frequent source of severe harm.
- Falling object injuries, including tools, debris, or building materials: Workers can suffer head, neck, and back injuries when struck by materials from above.
- Crane accidents and heavy machinery malfunctions: Large equipment failures often lead to crushing injuries or fatalities.
- Electrocution from exposed wiring or inadequate precautions: Electrical hazards can cause severe burns or even death.
- Slip and falls on hazardous surfaces and tripping caused by objects left in walkways: These incidents may seem minor but often result in significant injuries requiring surgery or long-term treatment.
At WRSMH, we meticulously investigate construction accidents to determine liability under New York labor law, and we fight to hold negligent parties accountable.
Finding the Right New York Construction Accident Lawyer
Having the right law firm by your side can make a big difference when it comes to securing the compensation you need. Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP has what it takes to file a successful claim or lawsuit:
- Deep knowledge of Labor Laws: Many firms handle general workplace injury cases but lack the expertise to litigate claims under New York construction law statutes.
- Experience with Multi-Party Litigation: Construction cases often involve more than one defendant. This may include property owners, contractors, subcontractors, and insurance companies. We know how to coordinate litigation across these parties.
- Access to Expert Witnesses: Construction safety experts, engineers, and medical professionals play a role in proving liability and damages.
- Trial Readiness: Insurance companies know which firms are willing to take cases to trial. The experienced litigators at WRSMH, LLP have repeatedly won large verdicts for our clients.
Reasons to Choose Us
- Over 50 years of legal service representing injured New Yorkers
- Several attorneys selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers Magazine
- More than $2 billion recovered for clients through verdicts and settlements
- Recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report
- Attorneys who belong to the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
What to Do After a Construction Site Injury
If you’ve been hurt at a construction site in New York City, here are the steps you should take to protect your rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, documentation is critical.
- Report the injury – Notify your supervisor and make sure a report is filed.
- Document the scene – Take photos of the equipment, scaffolds, or conditions that caused the injury.
- Collect witness information – Your coworkers may be vital to proving liability.
- Contact an attorney immediately – Don’t rely solely on workers’ compensation. A skilled construction accident lawyer will pursue all available avenues of compensation.
Speak With an Experienced Construction Accident Attorney in NYC
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, a major portion of our caseload comes from construction-related injuries. If you’ve suffered a construction site injury in NYC, you may be entitled to far more than standard workers’ compensation benefits.
Call (212) 986-7353 to schedule your free consultation today.