- Are You in Need of a Manhattan Workers' Compensation Attorney?
- Why Choose Us Over Other NYC Workers' Compensation Attorneys?
- What’s the Legal Process for a Construction Accident Case?
- How a Manhattan Workers Compensation Lawyer Can Help
- What Is a Third-Party Injured Workers’ Claim?
- Who Can Be Liable in a Third-Party Claim?
- Reasons to See an Attorney in Manhattan Right Away
Are You in Need of a Manhattan Workers' Compensation Attorney?
Construction workers built this city, and they are an essential part of its continued growth. At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we help seriously injured workers manage the workers' comp system and identify all possible sources of recovery.
Why Choose Us Over Other NYC Workers' Compensation Attorneys?
When you're injured on the job, you need a law firm that holds people accountable for their careless behavior. At WRSMH, we’ve built a solid reputation for standing up for workers in Manhattan and across New York. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Over $2 billion recovered for injured clients across New York – proven results for workers and their families.
- Recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report – trusted by both peers and clients.
- More than 50 years of legal experience in personal injury and workplace accidents – deep knowledge of labor law and workplace safety.
- Numerous attorneys rated 10.0 Superb on Avvo – top-rated for skill and client satisfaction.
- Members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum – awarded to lawyers who have won million- and multi-million-dollar verdicts.
- Personalized legal strategy and support – every case gets the time, attention, and resources it deserves.
- We prepare every case as if it's going to trial – our preparation sends a strong message to employers and insurers.
- You don't pay unless we win your case – no risk, no upfront legal fees.
Notable Construction Accident Case Results
Construction worker fall: $36.25 million
Construction worker ladder accident: $11.1 million
Construction scaffold defect: $7.25 million
Construction Injury in Manhattan?
You may qualify for a third-party claim in addition to your workers’ comp benefits. Contact us now at (212) 986-7353 to find out more.
What’s the Legal Process for a Construction Accident Case?
Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in Manhattan, and injured workers may be eligible for both workers’ compensation and third-party injury claims. Here's how the legal process typically unfolds:
- Immediate Medical Care & Reporting – Seek treatment and notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible.
- Filing for Workers' Compensation – You must file a claim with the New York Workers 'Compensation Board. This provides coverage for medical bills and a portion of lost wages.
- Investigation – Our firm will review the details of your injury, job site conditions, and potential safety violations.
- Evaluate for Third-Party Liability – We determine if someone other than your employer contributed to your injury.
- Build a Civil Lawsuit (if applicable) – If a third party was negligent, we file a separate personal injury claim in civil court.
- Gather Evidence – We obtain site records, safety reports, surveillance footage, accident reports, and witness statements.
- Expert Consultation – We work with workplace safety professionals, engineers, and medical experts to support your case.
- Negotiate and Litigate – We aggressively negotiate for a settlement or take the case to trial if necessary.
Throughout the process, we coordinate both your workers’ comp benefits and any third-party lawsuit to maximize your total compensation.
How a Manhattan Workers Compensation Lawyer Can Help
Our legal team has helped construction workers, union members, delivery drivers, utility workers, and countless others secure the compensation they need. Your attorney can do a lot more than just filling out paperwork:
- Ensuring your claim is filed correctly and on time
- Challenging wrongful claim denials or terminations
- Calculating your benefits accurately and advocate for proper wage replacement
- Identifying third-party claims for added compensation
- Gathering evidence to prove employer negligence, OSHA violations, or product defects
- Representing you in workers' comp hearings and appeals
What Is a Third-Party Injured Workers’ Claim?
New York law generally bars employees from suing their employers directly for work-related injuries. but if someone other than your employer contributed to your injury, you may be able to file a third-party personal injury claim in addition to collecting workers’ comp benefits.
This claim allows you to pursue compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Full lost wages (not just a percentage)
- Future medical care
- Loss of earning capacity
- Emotional distress
Third-party claims can significantly increase the total value of your recovery, especially in serious injury cases. These claims are often filed against property owners, subcontractors, or equipment manufacturers.
Not Sure If You Have a Case?
We’ll review your claim and explain your options. Reach out today at (212) 986-7353.
Who Can Be Liable in a Third-Party Claim?
Several parties may be held responsible in a third-party lawsuit, depending on the details of your injury. Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to identify every possible defendant.
Property Owners
In New York, commercial property owners have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment. If unsafe conditions at a construction site or office building contributed to your injury, the owner may be liable under premises liability or Labor Law 240/241.
Drivers
If you were injured while driving for work or were struck by a vehicle on the job (such as in a roadside construction zone or loading dock), the at-fault driver may be liable in a civil claim.
Private Contractors or Subcontractors
On construction sites, multiple contractors often share responsibility. If another contractor created a dangerous condition or failed to follow safety protocols, they can be held liable.
Equipment Vendors
If an outside company supplied defective or dangerous equipment to your job site, they could be responsible for any injuries caused. This might include scaffolding, ladders, forklifts, or power tools.
Manufacturers of Defective Equipment
If your injury resulted from a design flaw or manufacturing defect in a product used at work, the manufacturer or distributor may be liable in a product liability claim. We work with engineering experts to prove these cases.
Our attorneys have experience building strong third-party claims that hold negligent actors accountable, even when employers and insurers try to deny responsibility.
Reasons to See an Attorney in Manhattan Right Away
If you've been injured on the job, here are just a few reasons to contact an attorney immediately:
- Preserve evidence – Surveillance footage and witness memories fade quickly.
- Deadlines – You have limited time to file both workers' comp and personal injury claims.
- Protect your rights – Insurance companies may try to downplay your injuries or pressure you to return to work too soon.
- Avoid mistakes – One error on your application can delay or derail your claim.
- Coordinate claims – If you qualify for both workers' comp and third-party damages, we ensure you pursue both properly.
Manhattan Workers Compensation Case Results
$11.76 Million Verdict - Labor Law Construction Accident with Single-Level Lumbar Fusion
Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, attorney Frank J. Lombardo secured an $11.76 million verdict for a Union Local No. 1 journeyman plumber in Queens County, who suffered serious injuries from a Labor Law construction accident at 30 Rockefeller Center. The plaintiff was struck by a falling 4-inch copper pipe and a bucket of tools, leading to a herniated disc and a knee injury that required multiple surgeries. Despite the defendants' insurer refusing to settle and downplaying the injuries by highlighting the plaintiff’s previous car accidents, Frank demonstrated that the injuries sustained were new and severe, impacting the plaintiff’s ability to work. The jury awarded the plaintiff and his wife substantial compensation for pain, suffering, lost earnings, medical expenses, and loss of services, totaling $11,756,810.00.
$11.1 Million Verdict - NY Construction Worker Fell from Ladder
Phil Russotti successfully secured an $11.1 million jury verdict in Queens County Supreme Court for a 53-year-old client who suffered a traumatic brain injury after a fall at a New York City High School construction site. Despite the defense's claim that the client exaggerated his disabilities by failing neuropsychological tests, expert testimony from a neuropsychologist and psychiatrist demonstrated that the client suffered significant personality changes and cognitive impairments due to brain damage, confirmed through MRI evidence. Additional testimonies from the client's family and a Professor of Neuroanatomy highlighted the irreversible impact on his life, supporting the claim of serious and permanent brain damage. The jury awarded the verdict covering pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of earnings, and rehabilitation costs.
What Our Clients Have to Say About Us
I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone-Patrick McFadden (5-Star Google Review)
Ken Halperin and Noah Katz did an impeccable job in resolving my case! They were thorough, courteous, professional, compassionate and efficient every step of the way. I felt very competent and secure knowing they were handling a very important part of my future. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone in need of true quality care and real results in a timely manner!
I just can't say enough good things about this firm- Peter Desiderio (5-Star Google Review)
I was hit by someone else's material falling from above on a construction site. From the moment I started dealing with WRSMH, I knew I was in good hands. My attorney went above and beyond on even the smallest detail. He helped me with everything in a very fashionable and timely manner, from finding the right doctors to settling my case with the least amount of added stress. I just can't say enough good things about this firm. They must have written the book on how this is all supposed to work. For the life of me, I never thought that my dilemma could go so smoothly and I would be so happy with the results. Thank you so much!
Other Locations We Serve in New York
Speak With a Manhattan Workers' Compensation Attorney Today
If you were hurt while working as a bricklayer, carpenter, or crane operator, don’t leave your future to chance. Insurance companies have lawyers working to limit what you receive; you deserve to have someone in your corner who is focused on protecting your interests.
Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP understands how to manage workers’ comp and civil injury claims to recover the maximum compensation available under the law.
Call (212) 986-7353 to learn more today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after being injured at work?
Seek medical attention right away and report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Make sure the report is in writing if possible, and request a copy. Then, consider speaking with a workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights from the start.
Do I need an attorney to file for workers’ compensation?
Having an attorney can significantly improve your chances of receiving full benefits, especially if your claim is disputed or denied. Your lawyer can also identify whether you may have a third-party personal injury claim.
What benefits can I receive through workers’ compensation in New York?
Workers’ compensation can provide medical care coverage, partial wage replacement (usually two-thirds of your average weekly wage), and benefits for permanent disability. In some cases, vocational rehabilitation may also be available.
How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim in New York?
You must notify your employer within 30 days of the injury and file a formal claim with the New York Workers’ Compensation Board within two years of the accident. Failing to meet these deadlines may result in the loss of benefits.
Can I see my own doctor for treatment?
You must see a healthcare provider who is authorized by the New York Workers’ Compensation Board, though you can choose from the list of approved doctors. Your employer or insurer may have additional restrictions, which an attorney can help you navigate.
What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. This process involves hearings and potentially multiple levels of appeal. An experienced attorney can represent you and present evidence to support your case.
What is a third-party claim, and when can I file one?
A third-party claim is a separate personal injury lawsuit against someone other than your employer whose negligence contributed to your injury. For example, if a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer played a role, you may be able to pursue additional compensation.
How long does it take to receive workers’ compensation benefits?
Once your claim is approved, wage replacement benefits typically begin within a few weeks. But delays are common if the claim is contested or if additional medical evaluations are needed. An attorney can help move the process forward and address any disputes.
How much does it cost to hire WRSMH for a workers’ compensation case?
There is no upfront cost. WRSMH works on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases and follows New York State guidelines for workers' compensation legal fees, which are subject to approval by a Workers’ Compensation Law Judge. You pay nothing unless we secure benefits or compensation for you.
Meet Our Manhattan Workers Compensation Attorneys
Clifford H. Shapiro
Clifford H. Shapiro is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP. A tenacious litigator and trusted advisor, Mr. Shapiro has dedicated his career to helping individuals and families recover full compensation after life-altering injuries caused by negligence.
Mr. Shapiro is especially well-versed in New York’s Labor Laws and has a long track record of success handling construction site accidents involving scaffolding collapses, falls from elevation, unsafe work conditions, and heavy equipment failures. He has secured numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for workers and their families, holding contractors, property owners, and other parties accountable for dangerous jobsite conditions.
Kenneth J. Halperin
Kenneth J. Halperin is a partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, where he concentrates his practice on representing individuals who have suffered serious injuries due to construction accidents, motor vehicle collisions, premises liability, and other forms of negligence.
Mr. Halperin has secured numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements, including many involving New York Labor Law and construction site accidents. He is widely respected for his strategic litigation approach, in-depth understanding of workplace safety regulations, and ability to build strong, evidence-based cases that withstand the pressures of negotiation and trial.
Philip Russotti
Philip Russotti is a senior partner at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP and one of New York’s most accomplished and respected personal injury attorneys. For over four decades, he has dedicated his career to representing individuals and families who have suffered life-changing injuries due to negligence, malpractice, and workplace accidents.
Mr. Russotti is recognized for obtaining some of the highest verdicts and settlements in New York State. Known for his meticulous preparation, commanding trial presence, and deep understanding of the law, he has become a trusted advocate for those facing the most serious injuries.
Bryce Moses
Bryce Moses is a partner and accomplished trial attorney at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, where he focuses on high-stakes personal injury cases involving construction accidents, motor vehicle collisions, premises liability, and other serious incidents of negligence. Mr. Moses is known for his relentless advocacy, strategic case development, and deep commitment to securing justice for injured clients.
Mr. Moses has achieved numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements, often in complex cases involving catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. His ability to communicate effectively with juries, challenge powerful defendants, and navigate intricate legal issues has earned him the respect of clients, judges, and peers across New York.