Scaffolding work is very common in the Bronx and in other parts of New York. It is also quite dangerous for workers. While there are federal and state safety regulations that are designed to ensure the safety of those who work on scaffolding, these rules are not always followed. When safety rules broken, there is an increased likelihood that a catastrophic accident will occur. Because scaffolding can be several stories above ground, scaffold accidents often involve a worker falling from a significant height. The result is often serious injuries such as broken bones, head or brain injuries, internal bleeding, or a back or spinal cord injuries. Sadly, many victims do not survive falls from scaffolds. If you have been injured in a scaffolding accident it is important that you immediately contact an experienced Bronx scaffold accident lawyer as there are strict time limits for filing construction accident claims.
New York Scaffold LawWith the safety of construction workers in mind, New York Labor Law Section 240 was created. It is commonly referred to as the "scaffold law." The scaffold law places strict liability on owners of commercial property as well as general contractors in instances where a worker is injured in a scaffold accident. This means that to avoid accidents and liability, owners of commercial property and general contractors who perform construction work or renovations must exercise care in order to protect workers from gravity related accidents such as falls or falling objects. If a worker is seriously injured and did not have the proper protection, the property owner and contractor are liable.
Pursuing a ClaimEven with safety measures in place, scaffold accidents continue to occur—many of them leaving seriously injured victims. Many are fatal. Most construction accidents are covered by workers' compensation. This means that the injured party would be entitled to medical benefits and wage replacement. If the injury leaves the victim unable to work for a long period of time, the worker may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
As an experienced Bronx scaffold accident lawyer can explain, there are construction accident cases where the victim may have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim in addition to worker's compensation benefits or instead of worker's compensation. For example, if someone other than your employer or a co-worker caused the accident that resulted in your injuries, you may have the legal right to sue that third party. Examples of possible defendants include the property owner, general contractor, or equipment manufacturer. The compensation that you may be entitled to receive includes:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a scaffolding accident, it is important to have experienced representation. The staff at Stephen Bilkis & Associates is experienced in representing victims injured in accidents. Contact an experienced scaffold accident attorney serving the Bronx at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent clients in the following locations: Bronx, Nassau County, Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan, Staten Island, Suffolk County, Westchester County, and Queens.