Attorneys Protect the Rights of Injured Staten Island Construction Workers

Construction workers in Staten Island routinely perform hazardous and challenging work that often involves heavy machinery, great heights, and an unforgiving environment. Staying alert can prevent most accidents, but it's possible that those around you may not take the same precautions.

At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, our Staten Island personal injury attorneys strive for justice by conducting thorough investigations, collaborating with experts, and achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

Our services cover a broad spectrum of legal needs, including construction accident injuries. Reach out to us for a free consultation at (212) 986-7353. Your journey to justice starts here.

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Are You in Need of a Staten Island Construction Accident Lawyer?

Workers' compensation provides assistance with medical costs and a portion of your lost wages, but you'll still be left with expenses to pay. You may be eligible to receive additional compensation through a third-party lawsuit.

The construction accident lawyers at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, will explore avenues to maximize your compensation after a construction accident in Staten Island.

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Why Choose Us Over Other Staten Island Accident Law Firms?

WRSMH has been helping injured construction workers in Staten Island for over 50 years. We won't let anything stand in our way when it comes to getting justice for our clients.

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

  • We offer free initial case consultations.
  • We're AV Rated by Martindale-Hubbell.
  • We have won over $2 billion for our clients!
  • We're recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report.
  • We're honored by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys™ as one of the top law firms in New York City.
  • Several of our attorneys belong to the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

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Do You Have a Construction Accident Case?

When you meet for your free consultation with Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we will advise you about your options for moving forward with a third-party lawsuit. This involves holding additional parties accountable, such as:

  • Property owners whose negligence leads to an unsafe environment
  • Independent contractors who don't comply with OSHA safety standards
  • Drivers operating vehicles on or near construction sites
  • Equipment vendors who fail to provide safe and functional machinery
  • Manufacturers of defective tools and unsafe equipment

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Types of Construction Work That Lead to Accidents

Construction work involves various activities, and every type of construction job has its own risks and potential for accidents. Still, certain kinds of construction work are more susceptible to accidents due to their complexity and nature. These include:

  • Excavation and trenching: This involves digging trenches and excavating, which can lead to collapses, cave-ins, and accidents involving heavy machinery.
  • Heavy equipment operation: This deals with operating heavy machinery like cranes, bulldozers, forklifts, and excavators.
  • Electrical work: Electricians and other workers risk electrocution, electrical fires, and other electrical-related accidents.
  • Welding and cutting: Welding and cutting can lead to burns, fires, and explosions.
  • Demolition: Demolishing structures can lead to unexpected collapses, flying debris, or structural instability.
  • Crane and rigging operations: Crane accidents can result from equipment failures, improper rigging, overloading, or operator errors.
  • Hazardous materials handling: Handling hazardous substances requires protective measures to prevent accidents and exposure.
  • Road construction: These have increased risks related to passing vehicles, heavy machinery, and changing traffic patterns.
  • Scaffolding work: Scaffolding collapses, falls, and other accidents are some risks associated with this type of construction work.
  • Bricklaying: Bricklayers face risks from repetitive motion injuries, falls from scaffolding or ladders, and exposure to dust and hazardous materials like cement and mortar.
  • Carpentry: Carpenters are at risk of injuries from using power tools, falls from heights, and repetitive strain injuries.

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What Labor Laws Protect Staten Island Construction Workers?

Labor Law 200

Labor Law 200 mandates that employers maintain a safe environment for workers on construction sites. Its provisions cover:

  • Responsibilities: Employers must provide adequate safety measures and prevent hazardous conditions.
  • Inspections: Regular site inspections are required to identify and correct potential dangers.
  • Enforcement: Non-compliance can lead to penalties, reinforcing the importance of safety standards.

Labor Law 240

Labor Law 240, often called the Scaffold Law, specifically addresses the safety of workers at heights, essential for preventing scaffolding accidents and protecting workers from fall-related injuries. It holds employers and contractors accountable for providing necessary safety equipment.

Labor Law 241

Labor Law 241 outlines specific requirements to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety. This law includes provisions for:

  • Regulations: Detailed safety protocols must be followed during construction.
  • Compliance: Both employers and contractors are responsible for maintaining standards.
  • Legal recourse: Workers have avenues for recourse if injuries result from non-compliance.

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Common Construction Accident Injuries

Construction sites are known for their inherent risks due to the nature of the work and the potential for accidents. They pose a multitude of dangers to workers. For example, falls from heights, forklift accidents, caught-in or caught-between incidents, electrocutions, and operating heavy machinery all pose significant risks. Workers may also slip, trip, or fall due to clutter on the ground. Welding and cutting activities may lead to burns and explosions. Falling objects and structural collapses can likewise cause head injuries, fractures, and fatalities. Trench and excavation workers are also at risk of cave-ins and soil-related accidents.

In order to avoid injuries, it is important to implement a range of safety measures, provide adequate training, use personal protective equipment, comply with safety protocols, and continuously stay alert to potential hazards.

Common construction accident injuries include:

  • Electrical injuries: Workers can encounter live wires, faulty electrical systems, and exposed circuits, which can lead to electric shocks, burns, and even fatal electrocution.
  • Broken bones: These injuries often result from falls, being struck by heavy objects, or accidents involving machinery. The impact can cause fractures in various parts of the body, including arms, legs, ribs, and even the skull. Broken bones may require extended recovery time and cause severe consequences, including loss of mobility and significant medical expenses.
  • Head injuries: These may result from falls, being hit by falling objects, or collisions with equipment. Severe head injuries may cause traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can have serious and long-lasting effects on a worker's health and cognitive function.
  • Spinal cord injuries: These injuries often result from falls, heavy machinery accidents, or being struck by falling objects. The repercussions can be life-altering, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis. Victims may face long-term rehabilitation, loss of income, and substantial medical bills.
  • Machinery-related injuries: These injuries include amputations, crush injuries, loss of limb, and fatalities. Causes include faulty equipment, inadequate safety protocols, and insufficient training.
  • Chemical exposure: Construction sites frequently contain hazardous materials like solvents, asbestos, and other toxic substances. Exposure can lead to severe health issues, including respiratory problems, chemical burns, and long-term illnesses such as cancer. Immediate symptoms might include skin irritation, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.

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Compensation in Staten Island for Construction Injuries

When WRSMH files a claim or lawsuit for construction accident injuries, it includes the following types of damages:

  • Medications
  • Medical expenses
  • Medical devices
  • Physical therapy
  • Home alterations
  • Assisted living care
  • Rehabilitation
  • Lost wages
  • Reduced earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • Reduced quality of life

Surviving family members also have the right to seek a wrongful death claim if their loved one was killed due to third-party negligence on a construction site.

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How a Construction Accident Attorney Can Help

When dealing with construction accidents in Staten Island, having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side can make a huge difference. The attorneys at WRSMH will identify liable parties and gather evidence to build a strong personal injury claim.

We also negotiate with employers and insurance companies for fair compensation. If the other side refuses to make a reasonable settlement offer, we're always prepared to file a personal injury lawsuit and take your case to trial.

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Factors That Contribute to Construction Site Accidents

Fatigue and overwork are significant factors that contribute to construction site accidents. Long hours, physically demanding tasks, and inadequate rest can lead to exhaustion, impairing a worker's cognitive and physical abilities. Fatigue reduces alertness, slows reaction times, and increases the likelihood of errors, all of which can result in serious accidents and injuries.

It is essential for employers to create schedules that allow for sufficient rest breaks and avoid excessive overtime to help employees combat fatigue. Workers should be encouraged to take regular breaks and stay hydrated throughout their shifts in compliance with OSHA guidelines.

When employers neglect safety measures, the risk of accidents and injuries increases significantly. Unsafe working conditions include machinery that lacks guards, exposed electrical wires, inadequate fall protection, and poorly maintained equipment. It is vital for employers and site managers to address unsafe working conditions, conduct regular safety inspections, and promptly rectify any identified hazards.

Inadequate training is a critical factor contributing to accidents on construction sites. Workers who are not adequately trained may not understand how to operate machinery safely, recognize hazards, or follow essential safety protocols. To reduce this risk, employers must invest in comprehensive training covering a wide range of topics, including equipment operation, hazard recognition, emergency procedures, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

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

To begin the claims process, workers must complete the Employee Claim Form (Form C-3) and submit it to the New York Workers' Compensation Board. It's equally important to:

  1. Gather information: Collect details about the accident, including the date, time, location, and witnesses.
  2. Fill out the form: Accurately complete all required fields, ensuring no critical details are omitted.
  3. Attach documentation: Include medical reports and any other relevant documents to support the claim.

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Employers and Contractors Must Maintain a Safe Work Environment

Employers must ensure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and other relevant safety standards. Maintaining a safe working environment is a fundamental responsibility of employers and contractors in the construction industry. This requires establishing a comprehensive safety plan that outlines procedures for identifying and mitigating hazards.

Safety audits and inspections should be conducted frequently to identify and address potential risks promptly. Any identified issues with machinery should also be addressed immediately to prevent equipment-related accidents.

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What to Do After a Construction Accident in Staten Island

Seeking immediate medical attention is the first and most critical step following a construction accident. Prompt medical evaluation ensures that injuries are properly diagnosed and treated, which can prevent complications and promote faster recovery. Even if your injuries appear minor, it's essential to get a thorough examination, as some injuries may worsen over time.

In addition to safeguarding health, obtaining medical documentation of injuries is crucial for any potential legal claims. Medical records provide evidence of the extent and impact of the injuries, which can be vital for workers seeking compensation.

It's essential for workers to inform their employer or supervisor about an on-the-job injury as soon as possible, providing details about the incident and any injuries sustained. Employers should provide clear procedures in place for accident reporting, including designated personnel to handle such reports and specific forms to be filled out.

Documenting the accident scene is another critical step to take after a construction incident. Accurate and detailed documentation can serve as crucial evidence in any subsequent investigations, insurance claims, or legal proceedings. Workers should take photographs of the accident scene from multiple angles, capturing the conditions and any equipment involved. Collecting contact information from witnesses will also make it easier for your construction site accident attorney to contact them.

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

The statute of limitations sets the maximum timeframe for initiating legal proceedings after a construction accident occurs. In New York, it's generally three years. Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing a claim.

Keep in mind that if the accident happened on government property, you may need to file a notice of claim within 90 days of the accident. More time may be available to file if you didn't know about the injury or its cause, but it's not worth the risk of figuring it out on your own. That's why a construction accident lawyer is helpful—we'll make sure all documents are filed before the deadline.

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Call Our Staten Island Construction Accident Lawyers for Legal Support

From laying the groundwork for your legal needs to building strong arguments for a Staten Island construction accident case, WRSMH offers a broad range of legal services. When you need legal advocates to dig deep into the issues of your case, trust our Staten Island construction accident attorneys to create a well-crafted, compelling case. We vigorously pursue justice and full compensation for our clients.

Schedule a free consultation today by calling (212) 986-7353.

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Some of Our Construction Accident Case Results

$2 Million - Construction Worker Dies After Fall From Roof

WRSMH secured a $2,000,000 settlement for the family of a 43-year-old construction worker who tragically died after falling off a roof due to inadequate safety measures. The worker, engaged in replacing a wood shingle roof with an aluminum one, fell when no rope grabs were available for tying off, as required by safety regulations. Despite the defendant's lengthy litigation strategy blaming the worker, OSHA found violations—including the lack of a personal fall arrest system—which reinforced WRSMH's argument that the employer failed to provide necessary fall protection in compliance with Labor Law 240 and 241 (6).

$2.95 Million - Construction Worker Injured From Collapsed Ladder

WRSMH attorney William Hepner settled a case for $2.95 million after a second mediation. Our client, a construction worker, was injured when the extension ladder he was on collapsed while he was working. The defendants argued that our client was the sole proximate cause of the accident and summary judgment was denied by the lower court. As a result of the accident, our client underwent surgery to his neck, back, and shoulder.

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What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

"Fantastic Experience […] The Results Were Incredible" - Alpha Barry (5-Star Google Review)

I had a fantastic experience with this law firm. The results were incredible, and they treated me like family as well as being incredibly professional. I can highly recommend [WRSMH]. I hope you never have an accident, but if you do, you are in excellent hands. They will fight tirelessly for you!

"Better Than I Ever Expected […] Professional, Informative, and Responsive" - Osdy D (5-Star Google Review)

My experience with [WRSMH] was better than I ever expected. It was such a hard time in my life, but my attorney, Mike Zisser, was able to keep me calm and informed of the whole process. Mike is very professional, informative, and responsive. I would 100% recommend Mike and the firm to anyone that needs great attorneys!

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Other Locations We Serve in New York

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Construction Accident FAQs

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

Yes. Your construction accident lawyer can assist you with the workers' comp process and look for ways to maximize your compensation.

Can Family Members Sue for Wrongful Death After a Construction Accident?

Yes. If your loved one passed away due to a construction accident, WRSMH can file a claim seeking compensation for funeral and burial costs, medical expenses, loss of financial support, and other expenses.

What Should I Do If I've Been Injured on the Job in Staten Island?

Make sure to see a doctor right away, inform your supervisor about the accident, and submit the Employee Claim Form (Form C-3) to the New York Workers' Compensation Board. Take photos of the accident site and exchange contact information of any witnesses.

What Type of Third Parties Can Be Liable for My Injuries?

Property owners, equipment vendors, drivers, manufacturers of defective equipment, subcontractors, and other third parties could be required to pay compensation for your injuries.

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

It doesn't cost anything for injured workers and their families to hire WRSMH after a construction accident. There are no upfront costs, and you won't owe us anything unless we win you a settlement.

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Related Staten Island Personal Injury Pages