Construction Accident Lawyer NYC: Expert Legal Guidance for Injured Workers

Construction work in New York City is a vital but inherently dangerous occupation. The bustling cityscape is constantly evolving, with construction sites dotting every borough. While this industry provides livelihoods for many, it unfortunately also carries a high risk of accidents. If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in NYC, understanding your rights and options is crucial. A Construction Accident Lawyer Nyc can be your strongest advocate, helping you navigate the complex legal landscape and fight for the compensation you deserve.

NYC Construction Accident Lawyer – SWP Platta Law

At The Platta Law Firm, we are nationally recognized trial attorneys with a deep commitment to protecting the rights of injured construction workers throughout New York City. Our founding partner, Slawomir Platta, Esq., along with our entire team, brings unparalleled experience and dedication to every case. With over 150 years of collective experience in construction accident litigation, we have a proven track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a construction accident can take, and we are here to provide you with the expert legal representation you need to rebuild your life. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Contact our NYC law office at 212-514-5100 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation and discover how a dedicated construction accident lawyer NYC can make a difference in your recovery.

Why Choose The Platta Law Firm for Your NYC Construction Accident Claim?

When you’ve been injured in a construction accident, choosing the right legal representation is paramount. At The Platta Law Firm, we stand apart as a leading choice for injured construction workers in New York City. Here’s what sets us apart:

Unmatched Experience: Our team boasts over 150 years of combined experience specifically in handling complex construction accident litigation. This extensive experience means we have a deep understanding of New York construction law, safety regulations, and the tactics insurance companies employ. We leverage this knowledge to build the strongest possible case on your behalf.
Award-Winning Litigators: We are proud to be recognized by esteemed legal organizations such as Super Lawyers, the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys, and Lawyers of Distinction. These accolades reflect our commitment to excellence and our consistent success in achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Our reputation speaks for itself – we are known for our tenacity and dedication to justice.
Proven Track Record of Success: We have a history of securing substantial financial recoveries for our clients, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. These results demonstrate our ability to effectively fight against powerful adversaries, including insurance companies and large corporations, and win. We don’t just aim for settlements; we prepare every case for trial to maximize your potential compensation.
Shaping New York Construction Law: Our firm’s advocacy has had a tangible impact on construction law in New York State. Our landmark cases, such as Wilinski v. 334 E. 92nd Hous. Dev. Fund Corp., have helped shape legal precedents and strengthen protections for construction workers. This demonstrates our commitment to not only winning individual cases but also advocating for broader industry improvements in worker safety.
Personalized and Transparent Representation: We understand that every client and every case is unique. We prioritize providing approachable, transparent, and personalized legal representation. You will work directly with experienced attorneys who will take the time to understand your specific situation, answer your questions, and keep you informed every step of the way. We believe in clear communication and building a strong attorney-client relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay absolutely no upfront costs to hire us. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. This eliminates any financial risk for you and aligns our interests with yours – we are motivated to win your case and maximize your recovery.
Comprehensive Case Preparation: We leave no stone unturned in preparing your case. We will meticulously investigate the accident, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong legal strategy. This includes assembling a team of expert witnesses, such as safety engineers and medical professionals, and identifying and interviewing all potential witnesses, including coworkers and site supervisors.

Choosing The Platta Law Firm means choosing a legal team that is deeply experienced, highly respected, and fiercely dedicated to fighting for your rights. We are committed to helping you navigate the aftermath of your construction accident and secure the financial future you deserve. Call us today at 212-514-5100 to discuss your case in a free consultation.

Millions Recovered for NYC Construction Workers: Case Results

Our firm’s commitment to excellence is reflected in the significant settlements and jury verdicts we have secured for injured construction workers in New York City. These case results demonstrate our ability to handle complex and challenging cases and consistently achieve favorable outcomes for our clients. Here are some notable examples of our successful case results:

$48 Million Settlement: We secured a landmark $48 million settlement for a construction worker who suffered catastrophic injuries after falling on temporary wooden stairs at a Brooklyn construction site. This worker sustained permanent impairments as a result of the fall, and this substantial settlement reflects the severity of his injuries and the long-term impact on his life.
$8.5 Million Settlement: An $8.5 million settlement was obtained for a 41-year-old mason tender who was injured in a scaffolding accident. The accident occurred because his supervisors failed to provide adequate lighting, highlighting negligence and unsafe working conditions. This settlement provided crucial financial support for the injured worker and his family.
$7.5 Million Settlement: We achieved a $7.5 million settlement for a young subcontractor who suffered a traumatic brain injury when struck by a metal construction bar during a break. This case underscores the fact that accidents can happen even during seemingly safe moments on a construction site and that negligence can have devastating consequences.
$7 Million Settlement: A $7 million settlement was secured for a 33-year-old construction worker who sustained severe injuries after a scaffold collapsed and he was further impacted by falling cinder blocks. This settlement recognizes the multiple layers of negligence and the significant trauma endured by the worker.
Multiple Million-Dollar Recoveries: In addition to these landmark cases, we have consistently obtained multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements in cases involving demolition accidents, scaffold falls, ladder accidents, and other types of construction site incidents. Our track record includes numerous recoveries in the $3 million to $5 million range, demonstrating our consistent ability to secure substantial compensation for our clients.

These case results are just a snapshot of our success and demonstrate our unwavering dedication to fighting for the rights of injured construction workers in NYC. We understand the unique challenges of construction accident litigation and have the experience, resources, and determination to maximize your compensation.

The Prevalence of Construction Accidents in New York City

The construction industry, while vital to New York City’s growth, is inherently dangerous. It’s a stark reality that construction workers face significant risks daily. Nationally, construction consistently ranks among the most hazardous professions, and New York City is no exception.

High Fatality Rate: Despite representing a smaller percentage of the overall workforce, construction workers in NYC account for a disproportionately high number of workplace fatalities. Data indicates that while construction workers make up approximately 5% of the NYC workforce, they suffer a staggering 27% of all workplace-related deaths. This highlights the elevated risk associated with construction work in the city.
Dangerous Job Classifications: Certain construction roles are statistically more dangerous than others. Crane operators, mining machine operators, cement masons, ironworkers, roofers, and derrick workers are consistently identified as being among the most at-risk professions within the construction industry. These roles often involve working at heights, operating heavy machinery, and exposure to hazardous materials.
Booming Construction Industry: New York City’s constant development and infrastructure projects fuel a massive construction industry. Currently, NYC is the fourth-largest construction market in the United States, with over 35,000 active projects across the five boroughs. This sheer volume of construction activity translates to a large number of workers exposed to potential hazards every day.
Daily Accidents: Unfortunately, despite safety regulations and protocols, construction accidents are a daily occurrence in New York City. Data from the New York City Construction Safety Report indicates that in 2022 alone, there were over 750 reported construction accidents citywide. This averages to approximately two accidents per day.
Injuries and Fatalities: These accidents result in a significant number of injuries and fatalities. In 2022, over 550 construction workers were injured on the job in NYC, and tragically, at least 11 workers lost their lives in construction-related incidents. These statistics underscore the urgent need for robust safety measures and legal protection for construction workers.
High Settlements and Verdicts: Due to the severity of injuries often sustained in construction accidents and the complex legal frameworks in place, New York City construction accident cases frequently result in some of the highest settlements and verdicts in the nation. This reflects the recognition of the immense risks and potential for devastating consequences in this industry.

Understanding the prevalence and inherent dangers of construction work in NYC underscores the importance of seeking experienced legal counsel if you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident. A construction accident lawyer NYC can help you navigate the complexities of your claim and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Types of Construction Accidents We Handle in NYC

Construction is a multifaceted industry encompassing a wide range of specialized trades and tasks. This diversity also means a wide range of potential accident types can occur on construction sites. At The Platta Law Firm, our construction accident lawyers NYC have extensive experience handling virtually every type of construction accident claim, including:

Scaffolding Accidents: Scaffolding collapses, falls from scaffolding, and being struck by falling objects from scaffolding are common and often catastrophic accidents. We have a deep understanding of scaffolding safety regulations and liability in these cases.
Ladder Accidents: Falls from ladders are another frequent source of construction site injuries. Whether due to defective ladders, improper ladder use, or unsafe work conditions, ladder accidents can lead to serious harm.
Falls from Heights: Beyond scaffolding and ladders, falls from roofs, unprotected edges, and other elevated areas are a leading cause of serious construction injuries and fatalities. We investigate all factors contributing to falls from heights to determine liability.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Slip, trip, and fall hazards are prevalent on construction sites due to debris, uneven surfaces, and spills. These seemingly minor accidents can result in significant injuries.
Trenching and Excavation Accidents: Trench collapses and excavation accidents are extremely dangerous and often fatal. We understand the specific safety regulations governing trenching and excavation work and hold negligent parties accountable.
Crane Accidents: Crane accidents, including crane collapses, dropped loads, and electrocutions involving cranes, can have devastating consequences, affecting not only crane operators but also workers on the ground.
Hoist Accidents: Hoist malfunctions, falls from hoists, and accidents involving materials being hoisted can cause serious injuries.
Roofing Accidents: Roofing work is inherently dangerous due to the height and often precarious nature of the work. Falls, burns, and heatstroke are common roofing accident injuries.
Electrical Accidents: Exposure to live wires, electrocution, and electrical burns are significant risks on construction sites. We investigate electrical safety violations and hold responsible parties liable.
Toxic Exposure: Construction workers may be exposed to asbestos, silica, lead paint, and other hazardous materials, leading to long-term health problems and illnesses. We represent workers suffering from toxic exposure injuries.
Building Collapse and Structure Failure Accidents: Partial or complete building collapses and structural failures can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. These accidents often involve complex investigations to determine the cause and liability.
Gas Explosions: Gas leaks and explosions on construction sites can cause severe burns, blast injuries, and fatalities.
Hazardous Materials Accidents: Accidents involving spills or releases of hazardous materials can lead to chemical burns, respiratory problems, and other serious health issues.
Brazing and Welding Accidents: Burns, eye injuries, and respiratory problems are risks associated with brazing and welding work.
Struck-By Accidents: Being struck by falling objects, equipment, or vehicles is a common cause of construction site injuries.
Motor Vehicle Accidents: Construction sites often involve heavy equipment and vehicle traffic, increasing the risk of motor vehicle accidents.
Explosion Accidents: Beyond gas explosions, other types of explosions, such as those involving compressed gas cylinders or blasting operations, can occur on construction sites.
Welding Accidents: Similar to brazing accidents, welding accidents can result in burns, eye damage, and respiratory issues.

In addition to representing injured workers, our compassionate attorneys also provide legal support to families who have tragically lost loved ones in fatal construction accidents in NYC. No matter the type of accident or the severity of the injury, The Platta Law Firm is here to provide experienced and dedicated legal representation.

Pursuing Compensation After a Construction Accident in NYC: Your Options

Following a construction accident in New York City, understanding your legal options for recovering compensation is essential. Generally, there are two primary paths to pursue financial recovery:

1. Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system designed to provide benefits to employees injured on the job, regardless of fault. In New York, injured construction workers are typically eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which can include:

Medical Expenses: Workers’ compensation covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your construction accident injuries, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medication.
Lost Wage Benefits: If your injuries prevent you from working, workers’ compensation provides lost wage benefits to partially replace your lost income. These benefits are typically calculated as two-thirds of your average weekly wage prior to the injury, subject to state-mandated maximum limits. Benefits may be temporary (while you are recovering) or permanent (if you suffer long-term disability).
Disability Benefits: Depending on the nature and extent of your injuries, you may be eligible for temporary total disability (TTD), temporary partial disability (TPD), or permanent disability benefits.
Death Benefits: In the tragic event of a fatal construction accident, workers’ compensation provides death benefits to surviving dependents, including financial support and coverage of funeral expenses.

While workers’ compensation offers a streamlined process for obtaining benefits, it has limitations. Lost wage benefits are capped, and compensation for pain and suffering is not available. For more comprehensive compensation, you may need to explore a third-party lawsuit.

2. Damages in a Construction Accident Lawsuit (Third-Party Lawsuit)

New York law provides injured construction workers with the potential to pursue a lawsuit against negligent third parties who contributed to their accident. This is often referred to as a third-party lawsuit because it is filed against someone other than your employer (as you are typically barred from suing your employer directly in most cases, except in very limited circumstances). Potentially liable third parties in construction accident cases can include:

General Contractors: If a general contractor on the site failed to maintain a safe work environment or properly supervise subcontractors, they may be liable.
Property Owners: Property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are safe for workers. If negligence on the part of the property owner contributed to the accident, they can be held liable.
Engineers and Architects: Design flaws or negligence in the planning or design of a construction project can lead to accidents. Engineers and architects may be liable for design-related defects.
Subcontractors: If a subcontractor’s negligence caused or contributed to your accident, you may have a claim against them.
Equipment Manufacturers: Defective construction equipment can cause serious accidents. Manufacturers of faulty equipment may be liable for injuries resulting from their products.
Co-workers (in limited circumstances): While typically you cannot sue a co-worker directly, there may be exceptions, particularly if the co-worker’s intentional misconduct or gross negligence caused your injuries.

A successful third-party lawsuit allows you to seek a broader range of damages than workers’ compensation, including both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses, such as:
- Past and Future Medical Expenses: All medical costs related to your injuries, including ongoing and future treatment.
- Lost Wages (Past and Future): Compensation for lost income, including both wages you’ve already lost and future earnings you are projected to lose due to your injuries.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services.
- Diminished Earning Capacity: Compensation for any reduction in your ability to earn income in the future due to your injuries.
Non-Economic Damages: These are more subjective losses related to the impact of your injuries on your quality of life, such as:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD resulting from the accident.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: Compensation for permanent disfigurement or scarring caused by your injuries.
- Loss of Consortium: In cases of severe injury, spouses may be able to recover damages for loss of companionship, intimacy, and household services.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Compensation for the overall diminished enjoyment of life due to your injuries.

In cases of egregious negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Navigating workers’ compensation and third-party lawsuits can be complex. A skilled construction accident lawyer NYC can assess your situation, explain your options, and help you pursue the path to compensation that best suits your needs.

The OSHA “Fatal Four” in Construction Accidents

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified the “Fatal Four” leading causes of construction worker fatalities nationwide. These four categories account for a significant majority of construction worker deaths and highlight critical areas for safety improvement:

Falls: Falls are the single leading cause of construction fatalities, accounting for over a third of all construction worker deaths. Falls can occur from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, unprotected edges, and other elevated work areas. Lack of fall protection, inadequate safety equipment, and insufficient training contribute to fall-related accidents.
Electrocution: Electrocution is the second leading cause of construction fatalities. Contact with overhead power lines, underground cables, improperly grounded equipment, and defective electrical tools are common causes of electrocution injuries and deaths on construction sites.
Struck-By Objects: Being struck by falling objects, swinging materials, equipment malfunctions, or vehicles accounts for a significant percentage of construction worker fatalities. Unsecured materials, inadequate hazard communication, and unsafe work practices contribute to struck-by accidents.
Caught In/Between Objects: Workers can be crushed or caught in between heavy equipment, machinery parts, collapsing structures, or materials. Entanglement in machinery, being pinned between objects, and trench collapses are examples of caught-in/between hazards.

Understanding the “Fatal Four” is crucial for both accident prevention and legal analysis in construction accident cases. If your accident falls into one of these categories, it may indicate specific safety violations or negligence that contributed to your injuries, strengthening your legal claim.

Common Injuries in NYC Construction Accidents

Construction accidents can result in a wide spectrum of injuries, ranging from relatively minor to catastrophic and fatal. The Platta Law Firm is experienced in representing clients who have suffered all types of construction-related injuries, including:

Cuts and Lacerations: Cuts, scrapes, and lacerations are common injuries from sharp objects, debris, and tools on construction sites. While some may be minor, deep lacerations can cause significant blood loss and nerve damage.
Burn Injuries: Burns can result from electrical accidents, fires, explosions, and contact with hot materials or chemicals. Burn injuries can range from minor to severe and require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Falls, struck-by accidents, and explosions can cause concussions and more severe traumatic brain injuries. TBIs can have long-lasting cognitive, physical, and emotional consequences.
Crushing Injuries: Being caught between objects or crushed by heavy equipment or materials can cause severe crushing injuries, leading to fractures, internal organ damage, and amputation.
Degloving Injuries: Degloving injuries involve the stripping away of skin and tissue, often from limbs, and are typically caused by machinery accidents.
Amputations: Construction accidents can tragically result in amputations of fingers, hands, arms, legs, or feet, often due to machinery accidents or crushing injuries.
Whiplash: Whiplash, a neck injury caused by sudden forceful back-and-forth movement, can occur in falls or struck-by accidents.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls from heights and crushing accidents can cause spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia).
Herniated Discs and Back Injuries: Lifting heavy materials, falls, and repetitive strain can cause herniated discs, back sprains, strains, and other back injuries.
Knee Injuries: Knee injuries, such as ligament tears, meniscus tears, and fractures, are common in falls, slips, and trips on construction sites.
Broken Bones and Fractures: Falls, struck-by accidents, and crushing injuries frequently result in broken bones and fractures throughout the body.
Repetitive Motion Injuries: Repetitive tasks in construction work can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears of muscles, ligaments, and tendons are common soft tissue injuries in construction accidents.
Internal Organ Damage: Severe trauma from crushing injuries or falls can cause internal organ damage, requiring emergency medical intervention.
Electrocution Injuries: Electrocution can cause burns, cardiac arrest, neurological damage, and other severe injuries.
Catastrophic Injuries: Catastrophic injuries are severe, life-altering injuries that result in permanent disability, significant long-term medical needs, and profound impact on quality of life.
Wrongful Death: Tragically, construction accidents can be fatal, resulting in wrongful death. We represent families who have lost loved ones in construction site accidents.

If you have sustained any injury while working on a construction site in NYC, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and report the injury to your employer promptly. Then, contact a construction accident lawyer NYC to discuss your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.

Statute of Limitations for Construction Accident Claims in New York

The statute of limitations sets a legal time limit for filing a lawsuit. In New York, the statute of limitations for construction accident claims varies depending on the type of claim you are pursuing:

Workers’ Compensation Claims: There is a two-year statute of limitations to file a workers’ compensation claim in New York from the date of your accident. However, it is crucial to report your injury to your employer as soon as possible, ideally within 30 days of the accident, to protect your right to benefits. Delaying reporting could jeopardize your claim.
Construction Accident Lawsuits (Third-Party Lawsuits): The statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in New York, including construction accident lawsuits against negligent third parties, is generally three years from the date of the accident.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits: If a construction accident results in a fatality, wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within two years of the worker’s death.

Missing the applicable statute of limitations deadline means you lose your right to file a lawsuit and recover compensation. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a construction accident lawyer NYC as soon as possible after your accident to ensure your claim is filed within the legal time frame.

Steps to Take After a Construction Accident in NYC

The actions you take immediately following a construction accident can significantly impact your health and your ability to pursue legal claims. Here are crucial steps to take after a construction accident in NYC:

Report the Accident Immediately: Notify your supervisor or employer of the accident as soon as possible. Prompt reporting is essential for initiating a workers’ compensation claim and documenting the incident. Report the accident in writing if possible, and keep a copy for your records.
Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Seek immediate medical attention, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe. Adrenaline can mask pain initially, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care facility. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and follow-up care.
Gather Evidence at the Scene (If Possible and Safe): If you are able to do so safely and without further injury, try to gather evidence at the accident scene. This may include:
- Taking Photos and Videos: Document the accident scene, including hazards, equipment involved, safety violations, and your injuries.
- Identifying Witnesses: Get the names and contact information of any coworkers, supervisors, or other individuals who witnessed the accident.
- Documenting Conditions: Note weather conditions, lighting, and any other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
- Do NOT Admit Fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault for the accident. Stick to the facts when reporting the incident.
Consult a Construction Accident Lawyer NYC: Contact an experienced construction accident lawyer NYC as soon as possible after your accident. An attorney can advise you on your legal rights, guide you through the workers’ compensation process, investigate potential third-party claims, and protect your interests.
Keep Records of Everything: Maintain detailed records of all medical treatment, lost wages, accident reports, communications with your employer and insurance companies, and any other expenses related to your accident.

Taking these steps can help protect your health, preserve evidence, and strengthen your legal position after a construction accident in New York City.

New York Labor Laws Protecting Construction Workers

New York State has specific labor laws in place to protect construction workers and promote safety on construction sites. These laws provide important legal recourse for injured workers and impose obligations on employers and property owners to maintain safe working conditions. Key New York Labor Laws relevant to construction accidents include:

Labor Law Section 200: This law codifies the general duty of employers and property owners to provide a safe workplace for construction workers. It requires them to take reasonable measures to protect worker safety and address known hazards on the job site.
Labor Law Section 240 (Scaffolding Law): This law, often referred to as the “Scaffolding Law” or “Ladder Law,” provides exceptional protection to construction workers injured in falls from heights or when struck by falling objects. It imposes absolute liability on property owners and general contractors for certain types of gravity-related accidents, meaning they can be held liable even if they were not directly negligent. This law is particularly powerful in cases involving scaffolding, ladders, roofs, and other elevated work.
Labor Law Section 241(6): This law requires property owners and general contractors to provide reasonable and adequate protection and safety to construction workers. It mandates compliance with specific safety regulations outlined in the New York Industrial Code. Violations of these regulations that contribute to a worker’s injuries can form the basis for liability.

These New York Labor Laws provide significant legal protections for construction workers injured on the job. A construction accident lawyer NYC with expertise in these laws can effectively utilize them to build a strong case on your behalf and maximize your compensation.

Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer NYC Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident in New York City, don’t delay in seeking legal help. The Platta Law Firm is here to provide you with the experienced, dedicated, and compassionate legal representation you need to navigate the complexities of your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Our construction accident lawyers NYC offer:

Free, No-Obligation Case Evaluations: We will review your case for free and explain your legal options.
Experienced and Award-Winning Attorneys: Our team has over 150 years of combined experience and a proven track record of success.
Contingency Fee Representation: You pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.
Personalized and Dedicated Service: We are committed to providing you with the support and guidance you need throughout the legal process.

Contact our New York City law office today at 212-514-5100 to schedule your free consultation. We represent injured construction workers in Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, and throughout the surrounding areas. Let us put our expertise to work for you and help you on your path to recovery.