Scaffolding is commonly used in many construction projects. Construction workers do heavy work on these scaffolds, all within a very narrow space. When accidents happen, they are often serious. Every year, thousands of are hurt or killed because of these accidents.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), scaffolding accidents are responsible for approximately 4,500 injuries and 50 deaths per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in their study, 72% of workers injured in scaffolding accidents was due to falling from scaffolding, or being hit by falling debris.
Scaffolding accidents often occur due to:
Negligent Scaffolding Construction: Owners, employers and general contractor have a duty to ensure that workers are safe while working on scaffolding.
Improper Equipment: Scaffolding accidents happen when workers are given the wrong tools for the job, or the equipment is in poor condition.
Lack of Safety Equipment: A majority of accidents are caused by a support failure, or faulty planking. Also, a lack of safety lines or netting can contribute to accidents.
In New York, there are several laws that have been specifically created to help construction workers. New York Labor Law 240 is also known as the scaffold law, and protects workers who are injured in scaffolding accidents-holding the company and building owners liable.
A concerted effort should be made to ensure that scaffolding is safe. The scaffolding should be constructed according to manufacturer's instructions. Guardrails should be secure, and safety lines and netting should be used. When these safety measures aren't followed, owners and general contractors should be held accountable.
When you are injured in a scaffolding accident, you are likely worried about not being able to work, while the medical bills mount. Speak to Stephen Bilkis and Associates. We take pride in providing our clients with prompt and professional service so they can receive the compensation they deserve. To date, we have received awards and settlements that are over one half billion dollars ($500,000,000). Contact our legal team for guidance and a free consultation.
What is My Scaffolding Case Worth?We are commonly asked what a scaffolding injury case is worth. The answer is; it depends. The value of your case will depend on several things. How badly were you injured? Are you unable to work? What is the level of your pain and suffering? What are the insurance policy limits involved with your case? These and other facts will determine the value of your case.
Medical Expenses: When you are injured, it is safe to assume that you have incurred doctor's bills, medication expenses, surgery bills, physical therapy expenses, etc. Your present and future damages are reimbursable.
Missed Work: We understand that you have probably missed work when you can least afford it. You have a right to recover your lost wages now, and those you could incur in the future.
Pain and Suffering: Pain and suffering addresses your physical and emotional pain. This is difficult to assess. The court will come up with an amount based on your particular injury, and the prognosis.
Insurance: Our legal team is experienced in handling insurance claims. Since each company runs differently, this is very helpful. The insurance policy limits involved in your case are very important. The policy limit acts as cap to what you are able to collect. There may be other options available however, which your lawyer can investigate.
To give you a better idea what a case like yours might be worth, here are a few jury awards and settlements from similar cases:
$2,900,000 Settlement: Construction worker injured when scaffolding collapses.
$1,900,000 Jury Verdict: Pipefitter falls from scaffolding.
$10,015,000 Jury Verdict: Worker falls 20 feet, injuring head and spine.
Being injured in a workplace accident is stressful and confusing. Consult with Stephen Bilkis and Associates for answers. Our legal team will create a legal action plan to ensure that your rights are protected and you get the justice and compensation you deserve. We will provide you with legal guidance and a free consultation. We have offices throughout New York, including locations in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County and Westchester County. Call us today at 800.696.9529.