New York Construction Accident Lawyers Serving NYC and the Bronx
Leav & Steinberg LLP represents construction workers injured by unsafe job site conditions, pursuing third-party liability and Labor Law claims under sections 200, 240, and 241(6). Construction zones often involve hazardous machinery and OSHA violations. The firm coordinates with engineers and safety experts to hold negligent parties accountable.
Construction and demolition workers are entitled to a safe work environment, proper training, and properly functioning equipment. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, and poor site surroundings lead to injured workers.
If you have recently been involved in a New York City construction accident, the attorneys at Leav & Steinberg LLP are dedicated to helping you receive the damages you are due.
Our New York Construction Accident Lawyers
When employers, general contractors, subcontractors, and building owners neglect to create a safe working experience, they may become liable to their workers, as well as the public. Under Labor Law Section 240 (1), construction companies must provide adequate safety equipment for those workers working at an elevated area, such as a scaffold, trench, pit, ladder, or roof.
Any failure to provide an adequate worksite that causes construction workers to fall from a height may impose absolute liability under New York State law.
As a victim of workplace negligence, you should be skeptical about relinquishing any of your rights to a company in exchange for compensation. Because the nature of construction work can sometimes make it more difficult for you to return to your pre-injury status, you should consult with one of our attorneys before making a final decision.
Depending on your case, there is a good chance that the court will award you monetary damages to cover your injuries, medical bills, loss of wages, pain, and suffering.
Do You Have a New York Construction Accident Case?
When you choose Leav & Steinberg LLP to represent you, we will conduct a detailed analysis to determine whether or not your case is valid. Along with analyzing your story, we will look at your medical evaluations, injury photos, construction site photos, and any other evidence.
It’s important that you notify us about your accident as soon as possible. If not, you could run the risk of filing outside of the statute of limitations and having your case barred.
Refer to the list of common construction site accidents below to help you determine if your case is legitimate.
Crane Accidents
Crane accidents are among the most dangerous incidents on construction sites, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These accidents may occur when cranes collapse, loads fall, or operators lose control of the equipment. Because cranes are used to lift heavy materials at significant heights, even a single mistake can lead to devastating consequences for workers and bystanders.
Common causes of crane accidents include:
- Improper or negligent crane operation
- Mechanical failure or defective components
- Overloaded lifting equipment
- Inadequate safety inspections or maintenance
- Unsafe worksite conditions or poor supervision
Leav & Steinberg LLP represents construction workers and pedestrians injured in crane-related accidents. Our attorneys work with engineers, safety experts, and accident reconstruction specialists to determine what caused the failure and who is legally responsible. Liability may extend to multiple parties, including crane operators, contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners.
Victims of crane accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, long-term rehabilitation, and other damages resulting from their injuries.
Scaffolding and Ladder Falls
Falls from scaffolding and ladders are one of the leading causes of construction injuries in New York City. Construction workers frequently rely on scaffolds and ladders to perform tasks at elevated heights, making proper safety equipment essential to preventing serious accidents.
New York law requires contractors and property owners to provide safe equipment for workers performing elevated work. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes strict safety guidelines for ladder and scaffold use, and New York’s Scaffold Law (Labor Law §240) provides additional protections for construction workers injured due to unsafe working conditions.
Scaffolding accidents can occur for many reasons, including:
- Unsecured or unstable scaffolding
- Defective or broken ladders
- Missing guardrails or safety harnesses
- Weak or damaged planking
- Improper construction or installation
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, millions of construction workers rely on scaffolding to perform their jobs each year, and thousands of injuries occur annually due to scaffold-related accidents. When employers or contractors fail to follow safety requirements, workers and pedestrians may suffer severe injuries from dangerous falls.
Broken and Malfunctioning Tools
Construction workers depend on properly functioning tools and equipment to perform their jobs safely. When tools malfunction or safety equipment fails, workers may suffer serious injuries that could have been prevented with proper maintenance or product design.
Broken or malfunctioning tools can cause a wide range of accidents, including:
- Electrocution from faulty electrical equipment
- Lacerations or amputations from defective power tools
- Falls caused by equipment failure
- Injuries from tools that suddenly break or detach
Multiple parties may be responsible when construction equipment fails. Liability may fall on the employer, a subcontractor responsible for equipment maintenance, the manufacturer of the defective tool, or the retailer that supplied unsafe equipment.
If a construction worker’s injuries were caused by unsafe equipment, they may be able to pursue compensation through workers’ compensation benefits as well as third-party liability claims against responsible companies.
Slips, Trips, or Falls on a Construction Site
Construction sites contain numerous hazards that can lead to slips, trips, or falls. Even when workers are not operating at significant heights, uneven surfaces, debris, and unsafe walkways can cause dangerous accidents.
Falls remain one of the most common causes of injury and death in the construction industry. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 300-400 construction workers die each year as a result of falls on job sites.
Common causes of slip-and-fall accidents on construction sites include:
- Wet or slippery surfaces
- Loose debris or building materials
- Uneven flooring or temporary walkways
- Poor lighting in work areas
- Improperly secured tools or equipment
When a fall occurs due to unsafe site conditions, contractors, property owners, or other responsible parties may be liable for failing to maintain a safe work environment. An experienced construction accident attorney can investigate the circumstances of the fall and determine whether safety regulations were violated.
Nerve Damage
Nerve damage is a serious injury that may occur in many types of construction accidents. Workers who suffer nerve injuries may experience chronic pain, loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or permanent disability, depending on the severity of the damage.
Construction accidents that commonly cause nerve damage include:
- Falls from heights
- Heavy equipment accidents
- Crushing injuries
- Electrical accidents
- Severe lacerations or puncture wounds
Damage to major nerves or the spinal cord can result in long-term complications, including paralysis or loss of mobility. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
Leav & Steinberg LLP works with medical experts to evaluate the long-term effects of nerve damage and ensure that injury claims account for future treatment needs, reduced earning capacity, and ongoing medical care.
Exposure to Toxic or Hazardous Materials
Construction workers are frequently exposed to hazardous materials that can pose serious health risks if proper safety precautions are not followed. Fumes, dust, chemical solvents, and other toxic substances may cause both immediate injuries and long-term medical conditions.
Common hazardous exposures on construction sites include:
- Chemical solvents and industrial cleaners
- Mold or contaminated building materials
- Dust from concrete, asbestos, or silica
- Toxic fumes from welding or industrial equipment
- Open flames or combustible materials
Employers and contractors have a legal duty to protect workers from hazardous exposures by providing proper safety equipment, training, and protective measures. When companies fail to follow safety requirements, workers may suffer respiratory illnesses, chemical burns, neurological damage, or other serious health problems.
Our attorneys pursue claims under New York Labor Law provisions, including Labor Law §240 and §241(6), when employers fail to provide adequate safety protections.
Wrongful Death
Tragically, construction accidents can sometimes result in fatal injuries. When a worker dies due to unsafe working conditions or negligence on a construction site, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.
The most common causes of fatal construction accidents include:
- Falls from heights
- Being struck by falling objects
- Electrocution
- Being caught between heavy equipment or materials
Under New York law, surviving family members may seek compensation through workers’ compensation death benefits as well as potential third-party wrongful death claims against responsible parties such as contractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers.
Accidents Caused by Broken Handrails or Stairs
Unsafe stairs, handrails, and walkways can create serious hazards on construction sites and in buildings throughout New York City. When property owners or contractors fail to properly maintain stairways and railings, workers and pedestrians may suffer severe injuries from falls.
Common hazards that lead to stair and handrail accidents include:
- Broken or loose handrails
- Uneven or damaged steps
- Poor lighting in stairwells
- Debris or clutter on stairs
- Wet, icy, or slippery surfaces
Falls on unsafe stairs can lead to serious injuries such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or permanent disability. When negligence contributes to these accidents, injured victims may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
New York Construction Accident Laws Explained
New York Labor Law 200
New York Labor Law 200 emphasizes the responsibility of employers to guarantee a safe work environment for their employees. This law covers both the initial construction and the daily operations of workplaces. Any hazardous conditions known or reasonably foreseeable must be addressed promptly by employers, reinforcing their obligation to the well-being of their workforce.
New York Labor Law 240
Under New York Labor Law 240, often dubbed the “Scaffold Law,” construction workers injured from height-related risks are granted specific protections. The responsibility squarely falls on-site owners and general contractors to ensure worker safety when elevated. In construction accident cases of elevation-related injuries, owners and contractors can face strict liability due to non-compliance.
New York Labor Law 241
New York Labor Law 241 provides a framework for enhanced safety practices in construction and demolition, making site owners and contractors responsible for upholding these standards. From equipment and protective gear to site conditions, any shortcomings can result in them bearing the consequences for resultant injuries.
New York Construction Accident Lawyer Testimonials
When you become a client at Leav & Steinberg, you become family. Whether you’ve been in a minor car accident or you face significant injuries from a defective product, we ensure you get the same unwavering attention and dedication to your claim.
Our clients say it best. Read their experiences and see firsthand the level of commitment we bring to every case.
“I was well pleased with the service that was provided to me by the professionals at Leav and Steinberg offices. They worked with me closely during this process. This is a very diligent law firm. I would highly recommend them to everyone. Thank you again for all your help.” – Bettie D.
“The attorneys and staff at Leav and Steinberg have been very warm and accommodating to my husband and myself. They have been careful to meet your needs while eliminating the stressors of frequent trips to their office. Mr. Steinberg, and Daniella, have been working steadfastly on our cases. They have always been transparent with us, informing us of our best option, and making the choice that better suited us. If you are looking for a Legal firm that you can count on, Leav and Steinberg is definitely the match for you!” – Dr. Myrtle
“I would like to take the opportunity to both thank and congratulate Leav Steinberg, LLC for their professionalism, dedication, attention to detail, and hard work on my behalf for a few years. The end result is a positive outcome in my favor. I would recommend them and the whole staff without any hesitation.” – Zoe P.
Construction Accident Lawyer Verdicts in New York
Results speak louder than words. Over the last 17 years, we have helped numerous construction accident victims receive large monetary settlements from personal injury lawsuits, including:
– $5,000,000 Settlement: personal injury after a construction worker slipped and fell from a ladder on-site
– $2,818,000 Settlement: personal injury after a Queens construction gate fell on a mother and daughter
– $2,250,000 Settlement: personal injury after a construction vehicle struck a traffic control worker at a construction site
– $1,100,000 Settlement: personal injury after a laborer fell off a dolly at his workplace
– $830,000 Settlement: personal injury after a 14-year-old boy fell on a sidewalk adjacent to a construction site
– $700,000 Settlement: personal injury after a construction worker slipped and fell from a ladder on-site
– $600,000 Settlement: personal injury after an electrician slipped and fell from a ladder in an apartment he was renovating
– $500,000 Settlement: personal injury after a leaky valve on a hot water boiler exploded on a building superintendent
It’s important to note that prior results will not necessarily guarantee you a similar outcome. However, we will do everything possible to ensure you receive proper compensation.
NYC Construction Accident FAQ
When Should You Hire a Construction Accident Attorney?
You should contact a construction accident attorney as soon as possible after a workplace injury. Early legal guidance can help ensure that your rights are protected while critical evidence is still available.
Our NYC construction accident attorneys assist injured workers by securing proper medical care, documenting the accident, and identifying potential legal claims. Acting quickly allows attorneys to preserve evidence such as safety reports, witness statements, and site records before they are lost or altered.
Prompt legal action can also help determine whether additional compensation may be available beyond workers’ compensation benefits.
How Long Does a Construction Lawsuit Take?
Construction accident lawsuits in New York typically take 1 to 3 years to resolve, though the exact timeline depends on factors such as the case’s complexity, the severity of the injuries, and court scheduling.
Some cases settle earlier through negotiation with insurance companies or responsible parties, while others may require full litigation and trial preparation. At Leav & Steinberg LLP, our attorneys pursue efficient resolutions whenever possible while preparing every case thoroughly in case litigation becomes necessary.
This approach helps ensure that injured workers receive fair compensation without compromising the strength of their claim.
How Is Negligence Proven in a Construction Accident Case?
Negligence in a construction accident case is typically established by showing that a contractor, property owner, or other responsible party failed to follow safety regulations or provide a safe working environment.
Evidence used to prove negligence may include:
- OSHA investigation reports
- Construction site inspection records
- Safety violations or code breaches
- Witness testimony from coworkers
- Expert analysis from engineers or safety professionals
What Are the Most Common Causes of Death on Construction Sites?
The construction industry faces several well-known fatal hazards, often referred to as OSHA’s “Fatal Four.” These incidents account for the majority of construction-related deaths.
The most common causes include:
- Falls from heights such as scaffolding or ladders
- Electrocution from exposed wiring or unsafe equipment
- Being struck by falling objects or moving equipment
- Being caught between heavy machinery or building materials
These risks highlight why New York labor laws impose strict safety requirements on contractors, property owners, and site supervisors. When safety obligations are ignored, serious injuries and fatalities can occur.
Are There Time Limits for Filing a Construction Accident Claim in NYC?
Yes. In most cases, the statute of limitations for filing a construction accident personal injury lawsuit in New York is 3 years from the date of the accident.
However, different deadlines may apply depending on who is responsible for the accident. If the claim involves a city agency or other municipal entity, injured workers may need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident.
Because these deadlines can vary, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after a construction accident to ensure that all legal requirements are met and that your claim is filed on time.
Can I Still File a Lawsuit If I Was Partly at Fault for the Accident?
Yes. New York follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you may still pursue compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident.
Under this system, any compensation awarded may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if a court determines that you were 20% responsible for the accident, your damages would be reduced by that percentage.
An experienced construction accident attorney can evaluate the circumstances of the accident and help determine whether other parties share responsibility for unsafe conditions on the job site.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Construction Accident in New York?
If you are injured on a construction site, taking the right steps immediately after the accident can help protect your health and your legal rights.
Important actions include:
- Seek medical attention right away
- Report the injury to your supervisor or employer
- Document the accident scene if possible, including photos and witness information
- Keep records of medical treatment and accident reports
- Contact an experienced construction accident attorney
Contact Our New York City Construction Injury Attorneys
The New York construction accident attorneys at Leav & Steinberg proudly represent clients throughout NYC and the surrounding areas, including Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
Injured in a construction accident? You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and lost wages. Contact our Manhattan or Bronx construction accident attorneys today to start discussing your case.