If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, this guide will explain why hiring a skilled construction accident attorney is critical. Learn what your legal options may be, and how to get started with a claim.

Construction is the backbone of New York City’s skyline, but it is also one of the most dangerous industries for workers. Every day, construction workers face risks from scaffolding collapses, crane accidents, falling debris, and unsafe working conditions. If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, hiring the right construction accident lawyer with extensive experience in construction accidents is critical. The right lawyer will fight for your rights, protect your livelihood, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

How Our Construction Accident Lawyers Can Help Injured Workers

New York has unique labor laws that provide construction workers with protections not found in many other states. These laws include New York Labor Law Sections 200, 240 (the Scaffold Law), and 241(6), which hold property owners and contractors responsible for maintaining safe worksites.

Without an attorney who understands these laws, you risk missing out on the full compensation you may be entitled to. Insurance companies and contractors often try to minimize payouts, and workers may be pressured to return to work before they are ready. An experienced lawyer levels the playing field and ensures your rights are protected.

If we take on your case, we will:

• Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
• Identify all responsible parties, including subcontractors, general contractors, and equipment manufacturers.
• File workers’ compensation claims and appeals if necessary.
• Pursue third-party lawsuits under New York’s labor laws.
• Negotiate with insurance companies for maximum settlement.
• Represent you in court if a fair settlement is not offered.

By hiring us, you ensure that every legal option is explored and that your recovery—both medical and financial—remains the top priority.

“My experience with Mr. Jaffe and Mr. Fein was amazing. They took my Construction case and got me a maximum recovery to protect my future. I would personally recommend them to anyone who needs a lawyer. Not just good lawyers, but a great firm to represent you. Thank you guys so much.”

– Ainsworth Robinson

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

Falls from Heights

Falls are one of the leading causes of death and serious injury in the construction industry. In New York City, where skyscrapers dominate the landscape, accidents involving scaffolding, ladders, and roofs are especially common.

Crane and Hoisting Accidents

Cranes are essential to NYC’s skyline, but when operators are not properly trained or machinery is poorly maintained, catastrophic accidents can occur.

Falling Objects

Construction sites often involve multiple levels of work happening at once. A dropped tool, unsecured building material, or falling debris can cause life-changing injuries.

Electrocution

Workers often operate near live wires, unfinished electrical systems, or high-voltage equipment. Failure to follow proper safety protocols can lead to fatal electrocution incidents.

Machinery and Equipment Failures

Forklifts, power tools, and other heavy machinery can malfunction if not properly maintained, causing crushing injuries or amputations.

Types of Compensation Available For Injured Construction Workers

If you’ve been hurt on a construction site, you may be entitled to several forms of compensation:

• Workers’ Compensation Benefits: Covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of fault.
• Third-Party Claims: You may have a claim against negligent property owners, contractors, or equipment manufacturers.
• Personal Injury Damages: Compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and full wage loss beyond workers’ comp limits.
• Wrongful Death Claims: Families may be able to recover compensation if a loved one was fatally injured on a construction site.

What to Do After a You’ve Been Injured in a Construction Accident in New York City

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Your health and safety come first.
2. Report the Accident – Notify your employer or site supervisor.
3. Document the Scene – Take photos of the site, your injuries, and any unsafe conditions.
4. Collect Witness Information – Coworkers and bystanders may provide valuable testimony.
5. Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer – The sooner you involve an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights.

 

Choosing the Right Construction Accident Lawyer to Handle Your Case in NYC is Critical

By choosing our firm to handle your construction accident case, you can rest assured that you’ve made the right choice.

• Experience with New York labor laws
• Proven track record in construction accident cases
• Strong negotiation skills with insurance companies
• Trial experience in case your claim goes to court
• Positive client testimonials and local reputation

“This firm took my difficult construction case and got me a lot of money to compensate me for my injuries. Eugene Gozenput took my case to trial and won. Very happy with the outcome“

– Francisco Martinez Castillo

New York is unique in providing specific legal protections for construction workers

Labor Law Section 200

This law requires owners and contractors to provide workers with a safe work environment.

Labor Law Section 240 (The Scaffold Law)

This law holds owners and contractors strictly liable when a worker is injured in a fall from height or by a falling object.

Labor Law Section 241(6)

This section mandates compliance with detailed safety regulations outlined by the New York Industrial Code.

Understanding these laws is critical. A knowledgeable lawyer will determine which laws apply to your case and use them to strengthen your claim.

Construction Accident Statistics in New York City

According to the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB):

• Construction is consistently one of the most dangerous industries in NYC.
• In 2023 alone, the DOB reported hundreds of injuries and multiple fatalities at construction sites.
• Falls remain the number one cause of death for construction workers.

These statistics highlight the importance of safety compliance—and the importance of legal representation when safety rules are violated.

Where Construction Accidents Happen in NYC

New York City construction is booming across all five boroughs. Accidents can and do happen in:

• Manhattan (New York County) – Midtown, Downtown, and the Financial District.
• Brooklyn (Kings County) – Williamsburg, Downtown Brooklyn, Bushwick.
• Queens (Queens County) – Long Island City, Astoria, Flushing.
• Bronx (Bronx County) – Mott Haven, South Bronx, Fordham.
• Staten Island (Richmond County) – St. George, Tottenville, New Springville.

Nearby cities in the metropolitan area where workers may commute from include Jersey City, Hoboken, Union City, Yonkers, New Rochelle, and Mount Vernon.

Prominent Local Landmarks Near Our Vesey Street Office in Lower Manhattan

Many construction projects take place around some of New York’s most iconic landmarks, including:

• One World Trade Center
• Battery Park
• Wall Street & The New York Stock Exchange
• City Hall
• Brooklyn Bridge Entrance
• South Street Seaport

These landmarks highlight the constant development and infrastructure upgrades that make construction such a vital—and risky—part of life in Lower Manhattan.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accidents

1. How long do I have to sue?

The New York Statute of Limitations is three years (3) from the date of injury in a construction accident. If a death occurs the time limit to file a Wrongful Death Claim is decreased to two years (2). Regardless, it is in your best interest to consult an attorney soon following an accident on-the-job.

2. Who is liable for my construction site accident?

Determining whether liability exists for a construction accident injury can be a complex question. The property’s owner, its contractors, subcontractors, product manufacturers, architects, engineers, and others could all be liable for creating an unsafe work environment that resulted in your accident and resulting injury. While Worker Compensation Laws limit the ability to sue employers for on-the-job injury, you still potentially have a claim against other negligent third parties such as the above-mentioned owners and contractors. Determining liability is just another reason it is very important you seek advice from an experienced construction accident attorney right away.

3. Can I sue while collecting Workers Compensation?

Yes, you can still file a claim against a negligent third party even while collecting Workers Compensation. However, you should contact an attorney before filing any claim.

4. What injuries can I obtain money for?

You may have compensation for any injury that results from another’s negligence or for violating New York Labor Law or OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines. Common injuries are fractures, spinal cord injuries, death, and other injuries leading to permanent or temporary disability. Injured workers can obtain compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

5. How much am I owed for my injuries?

Your personal injury claim varies by the extent of your damages and the potential available insurance coverage.

6. Should I speak to an insurance company or agent?

No. Never speak to an insurance agent without having consulted an accident lawyer first. These agents only seek to hurt your case, by having you disclose information prior to seeking legal advice.

7. Can I afford to hire a lawyer?

Yes, the attorneys at Pazer Epstein Jaffe Fein & Gozenput, P.C. never charge a fee unless we recover compensation for you.

8. What can I do to help my case?

By far the most important thing you can do to help your case and to recover the maximum compensation for your injury, is to contact experienced construction accident attorneys as soon as possible after an injury.

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We’re Here To Help

Between workers’ compensation claims, third-party lawsuits, and the complex web of New York labor laws, you need a lawyer best chance at full recovery comes with hiring an experienced construction accident lawyer in NYC.

Whether your accident occurred in Manhattan near the World Trade Center, in Brooklyn on a high-rise project, or in Queens on a residential build, you deserve an advocate who understands the challenges construction workers face every day.

Take action today—protect your rights, secure your future, and get the compensation you and your family need to move forward.