Cases We Handle Construction Accidents Scaffolding Accidents

New York City Scaffolding Accident Attorney

Construction work presents dangers that many other jobs do not. In addition, accidents on construction job sites account for over a quarter of all work-related deaths in New York City. While not every construction accident will cause death, construction work is dangerous.  Working on scaffolding, in particular, can be a very dangerous part of construction work in New York City.

Working on scaffolding is an integral part of many construction sites. Workers should be trained on how to properly set up and use scaffolding so they stay as safe as possible. In addition, workers should always be provided with scaffolding equipment in good working order.  Unfortunately, that does not always happen.

If you or a loved one has been injured while using scaffolding, you need to speak with an experienced New York City scaffold accidents lawyer today.

Statutory Protection for Scaffolding Work

New York Labor Law 240(1) provides protection for construction workers in gravity-related accidents, including workers injured on scaffolding. Simply being injured while working on scaffolding does not necessarily mean the owner or contractor is liable for your injuries. However, this law helps keep construction workers like you safe by penalizing owners and contractors who have violated the law and caused your injuries.

The New York Industrial Code also provides worker protection by setting out specific guidelines for setting up, using, and removing scaffolding. If an owner or contractor violates any of these specific provisions, their violation can from the basis of a Labor Law 241(6) cause of action. This can help you collect maximum compensation for your injuries.

Besides New York law, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also protects construction workers using scaffolding. If an owner or contractor is in violation of OSHA guidelines, they could face penalties for their violation.  Evidence of their OSHA violations can assist in getting you compensation for the injuries you suffered because of their negligence.

The best way to find out if you have a claim against an owner or general contractor is to speak with a skilled New York City scaffold accident lawyer today.

Types of Scaffolds

To the layperson, scaffolding is scaffolding. But to the more experienced, scaffolding comes in different forms and is used for specific purposes. The most common types of scaffolding include:

• Metal
• Outrigger
• Suspended
• Ladder jack
• Boatswain
• Manually propelled or Baker scaffold

Whether the wrong type of scaffold is used or the scaffold is defective in some way, scaffold accidents can be serious. Falling from any height can cause serious and potentially life-threatening injuries. On a construction site, someone who falls off scaffolding may even land on another object, sustaining further injuries.

Common Causes of Scaffold Accidents

Common causes of scaffold accidents include:

• Loose footing
• Lack of guardrails
• Faulty bracing
• Uprights are not plumb
• Insecure lifelines
• Improper structural materials
• Overloading weight
• Insufficient support
• Collapse
• Falling objects

No matter what caused your scaffold accident, you may face serious injuries and economic loss. You need to speak with a knowledgeable scaffold accident injury lawyer in New York City as soon as possible after your accident.

Injuries and Damages After a Scaffolding Accident

Depending on the type of scaffold accident you were involved in, your injuries may be extremely severe. Your injuries may include:

• Broken bones
• Concussion
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck injuries
• Back injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Paralysis
• Amputation

The best way for you to ensure that your focus is on your health and well-being is to speak with a trusted scaffold accident lawyer who can help you hold the responsible party liable for your injuries. To attempt the collection of damages from the party at fault, your lawyer will file a personal injury claim for damages.

Your lawyer will fight to get you compensation for:

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

Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may not be able to return to work for some time or at all. This severely affects your ability to earn a living and provide for your family, let alone pay your medical expenses. Two-thirds of all bankruptcy filings originate from accident victims who cannot pay their medical bills.

Do not let yourself become a statistic. Speak with a New York City scaffold accident lawyer today.

The Right Lawyer Can Help

Your ability to collect maximum compensation for your scaffold accident injuries can depend on the lawyer you choose to represent your best interests. Not all lawyers have the experience of battling big construction companies and their teams of lawyers. You deserve a lawyer that shows you compassion and empathy for this terrible life experience, but also a lawyer who can aggressively protect your rights and work tirelessly to help you recover every dollar you deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a scaffold accident, you may be entitled to compensation under the law. Contact a trusted New York City scaffolding accident lawyer today to find out your next steps.  Call The O’Connor Law Firm today at 212-566-4868 and let us help you get your life back on track.