Skilled Representation for Injured Construction Workers in Brooklyn

Construction workers in Brooklyn are unsung heroes. Although much of their work goes unnoticed behind the scenes, men and women who work in the construction industry provide essential services that have an enormous impact on our day-to-day lives. They repair our roads, lay pipes to provide access to clean water and build our bridges, skyscrapers, and the homes we live in.

Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the nation. If you or your loved one has been injured on a construction site, it is in your best interest to speak with a Brooklyn construction accident attorney at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, at (212) 986-7353 as soon as possible.

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Are You in Need of a Brooklyn Construction Accident Lawyer?

Workers' compensation benefits in Brooklyn provide partial wage replacement and medical coverage, but this could still leave you with huge out-of-pocket costs after a construction site accident.

Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, will explore all options for maximizing your compensation, including possible third-party lawsuits against anyone who contributed to your injuries.

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Why Choose Us Over Other Brooklyn Construction Accident Law Firms?

WRSMH has been helping injured construction workers in Brooklyn for over 50 years. We're one of the most successful personal injury law firms in the United States, and we won't back down from anybody when seeking justice for our clients.

Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP | Construction Accident Lawyers in Brooklyn

  • We offer a free initial consultation to discuss the details of your case.
  • We have won over $2 billion for our clients!
  • Our law firm is recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Several of our attorneys belong to the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
  • Honored by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys™ as one of the top law firms in New York City for client satisfaction.

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Do You Have a Construction Accident Case?

A third-party claim could be a viable option under New York compensation laws. When you meet with WRSMH for your free consultation, we'll review your case and advise you on the best strategy for moving forward.

Liable third parties may include:

  • Subcontractors
  • Property owners
  • Equipment vendors
  • Drivers
  • Manufacturers of defective equipment

Third-party claims can dramatically increase the compensation that an injured worker receives. They provide additional resources to help you with medical bills, recovery, medical devices, and other expenses caused by the accident.

WRSMH will:

  • Identify fault: Determine if negligence by a third party contributed to the accident.
  • Assess liability: By evaluating potential third-party involvement.
  • File a claim: Pursue damages against any responsible party.

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Examples and Types of Construction Accidents

Construction work leads to many types of accidents. Scenarios that increase the risk of injuries include:

  • Scaffolding work: Scaffolds are temporary structures used in almost all major construction projects. They are built on-site to give workers elevation and access. Accidents related to scaffolding, including falling objects and serious falls from heights, are responsible for approximately 4,500 injuries and 50 deaths a year, as reported by OSHA.
  • Electrical work: In a recent year, 166 workers in the U.S. were killed by electrocution, as stated in an OSHA news release. Many more workers are injured by electrical exposure on worksites every year. Many of these deaths and injuries could be prevented with the use of proper protective equipment.
  • Heavy machinery work: Tractors, cranes, forklifts, dump trucks, and other heavy equipment used in construction can cause catastrophic injuries. These machines are not only large and heavy but also mobile. Workers can be crushed or seriously injured when heavy machinery turns over, drops heavy objects on them, traps their limbs, or crashes into other equipment.
  • Trench work: To lay pipe, cables, or wires underground, construction workers must dig trenches and work in them for extended periods of time. If the ground shifts with continued work on the site, a trench can collapse, trapping and burying workers underneath. Trench cave-ins can cause crush injuries, bone fractures, and internal organ damage. They can also cause suffocation, brain damage, and death.
  • Exposure to hazardous materials: Demolition workers, bricklayers, and others who work on existing structures may face exposure to dangerous chemicals like asbestos, lead, silica, and solvents. Contact with these substances can lead to severe health issues, including respiratory problems and cancer. Employers and other responsible parties must reduce these risks by ensuring proper protective gear is used. Employers must also conduct regular safety training and assessments to ensure compliance.
  • Traffic collisions: Construction sites often have heavy machinery and other vehicles moving around. Employers and other responsible parties must implement a strict traffic management plan to minimize risks. This includes having designated pathways and enforcing speed limits for vehicles.
  • Fires and explosions: These can result from flammable materials, bad wiring, or equipment failure. Proper storage and handling of flammable materials are essential. Installing and maintaining fire suppression systems can also prevent fires from escalating.

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What Types of Injuries Are Common in Brooklyn Construction Accidents?

Workers on construction sites can suffer a wide range of injuries, many of them severe. Common construction accident injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Spinal cord injury and paralysis
  • Severe burns
  • Amputation
  • Electrocution
  • Bone fractures
  • Crush injuries
  • Neck and back injuries
  • Knee injuries

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What To Do After a Construction Accident in Brooklyn

After a construction accident, taking immediate action will help protect your health and safeguard your rights.

  • See a doctor right away.
  • Attend all follow-up medical appointments.
  • Inform your supervisor right away.
  • Gather photographs of the accident scene.
  • Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
  • Seek legal representation by calling WRSMH.

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What Steps Are Involved in Filing a Claim for a Construction Accident?

Filing a construction accident claim involves submitting a C-3 form to the New York Workers' Compensation Board. Any inaccuracies can delay the claim process.

  1. Start by gathering details, including the date, time, and location of the accident.
  2. Describe the injury and be specific about how it occurred and the symptoms experienced.
  3. Provide personal information and ensure accuracy in contact and employment details.

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What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Construction Accident Case in New York?

The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit after a construction accident. In New York, this is typically three years from the date of the accident for a personal injury lawsuit. Surviving family members have two years to file a wrongful death claim.

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How a Construction Accident Attorney Can Help

Hiring a construction injury attorney offers several advantages. The personal injury lawyers at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, provide invaluable experience and support until your case is resolved. Our services include:

  • Investigating the accident
  • Filing a claim against all liable parties
  • Negotiating with insurance companies
  • Taking your case to trial, if necessary

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What Labor Laws Protect Brooklyn Construction Workers?

Construction work in Brooklyn can be dangerous, but there are strong laws in place to keep workers safe and identify safety violations.

Labor Law 200

Labor Law 200 requires employers to provide proper safety measures and maintain equipment to prevent accidents. This law applies to both general contractors and property owners.

An important aspect of Labor Law 200 is the responsibility it places on employers to ensure that all machinery and tools are in safe working condition. Failure to adhere to this law can lead to significant legal repercussions for employers.

For example, workers injured due to unsafe conditions may claim compensation, highlighting the importance of strict adherence to this statute for both worker safety and employer liability.

Labor Law 240

Labor Law 240, often referred to as the Scaffold Law, protects construction workers from falls. The law mandates that proper safety equipment—such as scaffolds, ladders, and hoists—be provided and maintained.

Employers must ensure these tools are secure and fit for use to prevent accidents. Failure to comply with Labor Law 240 can result in severe penalties and compensation claims.

Labor Law 241

Labor Law 241 focuses on specific safety requirements during construction, demolition, and excavation work. It emphasizes the importance of adequate lighting, protective gear, and warning signage on construction sites. It also covers the safe handling of hazardous materials.

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What Forms of Compensation Are Available for Construction Accident Injuries?

If you were injured on the job in Brooklyn, you are entitled to receive workers' compensation benefits. Workers' comp will cover your medical expenses related to the workplace accident and reimburse you for a portion of the wages lost during your recovery. Depending on the particular circumstances, you may be entitled to file a third-party lawsuit against a contractor, subcontractor, property owner, or manufacturer if that party's negligence contributed to your accident and injuries.

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Speak With Our Brooklyn Construction Accident Attorneys Today!

Contact Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, at (212) 986-7353 if you have been injured while working as a carpenter or bricklayer or while performing other construction-related work.

Our seasoned Brooklyn personal injury trial lawyers have recovered over $2 billion in compensation for injured construction workers and will be happy to review your options during a free consultation.

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Some of Our Construction Accident Case Results

$1.25 Million - Union Worker Falls from Ladder

WRSMH attorney Bill Hepner secured a $1.25 million settlement at mediation for our client, who was 61 years old at the time of the accident. Our client's ladder slid on a wet surface at work, causing him to fall. He injured his shoulder and lower back and ended up having arthroscopic surgery on his shoulder and fusion surgery on his lower back. Bill successfully moved the court to find that the defendant was 100% responsible for the accident under the law.

$1.075 Million - Construction Foreman Falls Down Elevator Shaft

WRSMH attorney Cliff Shapiro secured a $1.075 million recovery for our client, a 47-year-old construction foreman who was employed by the general contractor. Our client fell approximately 12 feet down an elevator shaft in a building owned by the City of New York. Cliff successfully brought an action against the owner of the building, the management company, and the elevator company, alleging various labor law violations. Our client fractured his left calcaneus, which resulted in reflex sympathetic dystrophy, and was unable to return to work.

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What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

"They Were Able to Obtain a Big Settlement Amount" - Gabby C. (5-Star Google Review)

My father, a union worker, had a terrible work accident, and both Fatos Dervishi and Steve Wagner were a tremendous help in providing wonderful legal services to him. They worked really, really hard, pursuing the case against the insurance companies behind the general contractor and also the worksite owner. This included Steve helping my father with a multi-day, very tough deposition. They were able to obtain a big settlement amount at a long, late-night mediation. Moreover, they were caring and considerate at all times. They are great attorneys, and my family considers them great friends as well.

"[Helped] Me Achieve a More Than Generous Settlement" - Danny Vega

I had an absolutely amazing experience working with my attorney, Steve Wagner. Not only was he patient in helping me achieve a more than generous settlement, but he worked efficiently, as well. Steve is a hard worker who goes above and beyond for all of his clients. He was by far the most reliable when it came to following up with me and keeping me updated throughout the entire process. If you're looking for a professional, kind, and knowledgeable lawyer, I 100% recommend Steve Wagner!

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Other Locations We Serve in New York

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Construction Accident FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Construction Accident Lawyer in New York?

There are no upfront costs when you hire WRSMH to handle your construction accident claim, and you won't owe us anything unless we win you a settlement.

Should I Contact a Lawyer Even if I'm Covered by Workers' Compensation?

Yes. Your construction accident lawyer can assist you during the workers' comp process and will look for additional sources of compensation that could be available using a third-party lawsuit.

Can Family Members Sue for Wrongful Death After a Construction Accident in Brooklyn, New York?

Yes. If your loved one passed away due to a construction accident, Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, will inform you about your options for pursuing a wrongful death claim to recover funeral costs, burial expenses, loss of financial support, and other damages.

Who Can Be Liable in a Third-Party Lawsuit?

Property owners, drivers, equipment vendors, subcontractors, manufacturers of defective equipment, and other parties who contributed to your injuries may be liable.

What Types of Damages Can I Receive in a Construction Injury Lawsuit?

WRSMH seeks the following types of damages when we file a construction accident injury claim: medical expenses, lost wages, medical devices, assisted living care, pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, and other damages.

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Related Brooklyn Personal Injury Pages