Cases We Handle Construction Accidents Ladder Accidents

Ladder Accident Attorney in New York

Around New York City there is always construction going on, from large skyscraper projects to smaller work inside buildings where offices and apartments undergo renovation. Accidents happen with so much construction and renovation occurring. Some of the most common causes of construction site injuries arise from ladder accidents.

Falling from a height is the most common cause of unintentional injuries in construction work. Moreover, falling off a ladder is one of the most common reasons someone falls from a height.

Whether you suffer injuries from falling off a ladder at a construction site or from conducting maintenance, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. To find out for sure, speak with an experienced New York City ladder accident lawyer at the O’Connor Law Firm today.

Worker Protection from Construction Ladder Falls

As a construction worker, certain laws protect you. New York Labor Law 240(1) states that owners and contractors must keep you safe while working. Simply falling off a ladder does not mean the owner or contractor is automatically to blame, but, if the ladder was defective or the ladder was not the appropriate device to perform the task you were assigned, the owner and contractor can be held liable for your injuries.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also provides regulations for ladders and their safe use. The New York Industrial Code provides for additional safety measures and penalties for violations.

For example, ladders must not have a flaw or defect, which could include a broken or damaged step. Violations of these guidelines could result in the construction worksite owner or operator being held liable for your accident and your subsequent injuries.

The protection from both New York law and federal law is intended to keep you safe. Also, if your general contractor or property owner fails to follow these regulations, you may be able to collect compensation for your injuries.

Types of Ladders

There are many types of ladders available. Some are commonly used in homes and others on construction sites. These ladder types include:

• Extension ladder
• Platform ladder
• Single pole ladder
• Step ladder
• Multi-purpose ladder
• Fixed ladder
• Folding ladder
• Telescoping ladder
• A-frame ladder
• Podium ladder
• Portable ladder

Each of the ladders serves a specific purpose. These ladders also each have different requirements for proper use. Even if you have used ladders before, encountering a new type of ladder can sometimes cause confusion, and it is always best to consult a guide to ensure you are using the ladder properly. This is key to keeping you safe.

Common Causes of Construction Ladder Accidents

According to the American Ladder Institute (ALI), there are many causes of ladder accidents. Some, however, are more common than others. These include:

• Reaching too far or changing your center of gravity while on the ladder
• Using the wrong ladder
• Broken or defective ladder
• Using vertical or horizontal force while on a ladder
• Not securing the ladder on level ground
• Not properly using three points of contact

On a construction site, the most common cause of ladder accidents is when a ladder is not the right tool for the job. Oftentimes, a ladder is easier to grab and set up. But scaffolding or a scissor lift would provide more safety.

Too many times, owners and contractors do not provide the correct equipment because it is too costly and cumbersome. That decision can result in costly and painful injuries to you.

Using the ladder safely is important to keep you free of injury. While you should make sure you are always working in a safe manner, the owner of the worksite is responsible for maintaining a safe workplace. If you have fallen off a ladder and you suffer injuries, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Speak with a trusted New York City ladder accident lawyer today.

Collecting Compensation for Your Ladder Accident Injuries

New York workers’ compensation law prohibits bringing negligence claims against your employer. However, New York labor laws do allow lawsuits against the construction worksite owner, property owner, and general contractors for failing to provide you with proper safety equipment.

After falling from a ladder, the last thing on your mind is a legal claim. But it’s important that you act fast. Your lawyer can fight for you to get the compensation you deserve for:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Lost wages
• Lost earning potential
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of life enjoyment
• Present and future medical expenses
• Rehabilitation costs

Collecting compensation from the responsible parties is necessary to make sure that you receive full and fair compensation for the damages caused by their statutory violations and/or negligence. You may face serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and future loss of earnings.

Depending on the severity of your injuries, you could be out of work for a long time, making it difficult for you to pay your regular bills and provide financial support for your family. Holding the responsible party liable for your injuries and your economic loss ensures that you do not face financial hardship because of someone else’s mistake.

Speak with a Trusted New York City Ladder Accident Lawyer Today

The lawyer you choose can make a difference in your ability to collect maximum compensation for your injuries. You need a lawyer at your side who has been down this path before and successfully helped other ladder accident victims like you.

Brian J. O’Connor has been handling construction accident cases for more than 20 years.  In fact, prior to opening The O’Connor Law Firm in 2006, Brian was a construction accident defense attorney representing some of the largest general contractors in New York City.  He has seen first-hand the tricks and tactics insurance carriers use to try to delay and deny legitimate construction accident claims.  Brian’s unique experience sets him apart from other construction accident lawyers in New York as he has been on the other side and knows how insurance carriers defend ladder accident cases.

To find out how we can help you with your ladder accident case and to get every dollar you deserve, speak with a trusted ladder accident today.  Call The O’Connor Law Firm at 212-566-4868 and let us help you get the full and fair compensation you deserve.