This Page Was Written, Fact Checked & Legally Reviewed by The Orlow Firm
Cindy Cordova is a seasoned legal writer with over seven years of experience crafting clear, informative, and professional content for law firm websites. With a B.A. in English from Trinity Christian College, she combines her strong writing background with a deep understanding of legal topics to help firms connect with their clients through trustworthy and accessible content.
Rukshani Lye is The Orlow Firm’s IFCN-certified fact-checking and research specialist. With a master’s from Georgetown and 10+ years verifying complex data for legal, financial, and real-estate publications, she ensures every personal-injury article she reviews is accurate, up-to-date, and client-focused.
Brian Seth Orlow combines sharp legal skill with an approachable, upbeat demeanor that instantly puts clients at ease. A lifelong New Yorker who never misses a chance to recharge by the ocean, Brian channels the calm confidence of a beach-day breeze into fiercely advocating for those harmed by negligence or civil-rights violations.
- May 13, 2025
Experienced Construction Accident Lawyers in New York City
If you are looking for New York City Construction Accident Lawyers, you have come to the right place. At The Orlow Firm, we understand the serious impact a construction accident can have on your life. Our team of construction accident lawyers in New York City is committed to guiding you through this challenging time with skill and care.
Our attorneys work in all five boroughs of New York City. We know the local laws, regulations, and court systems that affect construction accident claims. We also understand that construction sites can be dangerous places where a simple mistake can lead to severe injuries.
When you choose our team, you gain a dedicated partner who focuses on protecting your rights. We carefully review the details of every case and help you determine the best strategy to seek fair compensation for your injuries. Whether you are dealing with a complex claim or need help with paperwork and deadlines, we are here to support you.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident in New York City, do not wait to get the legal help you need. Call us today for a free consultation at (646) 647-3398 and take the first step towards recovery and justice.
Why Choose Us for Your Construction Accident Claim
When you face the aftermath of a construction accident in New York City, you need a law firm that understands your challenges and fights for your rights. We work hard to deliver personalized service that meets your unique needs. Our deep local knowledge and commitment to your case set us apart when pursuing your construction accident claim.
We focus on several key areas:
- Local Knowledge: Our team understands the unique challenges of New York City construction sites and local building codes.
- Proven Results: We have successfully secured fair compensation for clients injured in construction accidents across NYC.
- Contingency Representation: You pay nothing unless we win your claim, so you can focus on recovery rather than worrying about legal fees.
- Personalized Service: We treat each case with the individual attention it deserves, tailoring our strategy to your specific situation.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We diligently hold negligent parties accountable to help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our dedicated legal team is here to support you every step of the way. Let us put our experience and local insight to work for you. Contact us today for a free consultation at (646) 647-3398.
Types of Construction Accident Cases We Handle
Construction sites in New York City come with many hazards that can lead to serious injuries. Our New York City construction accident lawyers have handled a wide range of accident claims. We work with injured workers and others affected by unsafe conditions. Our cases involve many common types of incidents during construction.
We handle many types of construction accident cases, including:
- Falls from Ladders or Scaffolding: Cases where workers fall from unstable ladders, scaffolding, or other elevated areas.
- Machinery Accidents: Incidents involving malfunctioning equipment or improper use of heavy machinery.
- Electrocution or Power Tool Injuries: Claims from injuries caused by faulty wiring or defective power tools on site.
- Crane or Heavy Equipment Accidents: Cases where malfunctioning cranes or equipment result in injuries to workers or bystanders.
- Falling Objects: Incidents when tools or materials fall from heights and cause injury.
- Trench and Excavation Accidents: Claims stemming from collapses or unsafe excavation practices.
- Building Collapse: Cases where buildings or temporary structures fail due to poor maintenance or design.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, you need strong legal advocacy to protect your rights. Contact our team for a free case evaluation. Call us today at (646) 647-3398.
Proven Results for Injured People
We have a strong track record when it comes to representing construction accident victims in New York City. Our results show our commitment to fighting for injured workers and helping them secure the full compensation to which they may be legally entitled. Here are some of our case outcomes:
- $3.375 million: for a construction worker who fell 12’ off a ladder, injuring his neck, back, elbow, and shoulder, with both his neck and back requiring surgery.
- $3 million: for a construction worker who fell from a ladder, sustaining a fractured femur that required surgery as well as multiple back injuries that needed surgical treatment.
- $2.6 million: for an HVAC laborer who suffered injuries when a drop ceiling fell on his head, causing damage to his back, knees, and shoulder.
- $2.5 million: for a construction worker who incurred severe lower back injuries after a wall collapsed onto the forklift he was operating, necessitating surgery.
- $2.475 million: for an undocumented construction worker who received an electric shock while on a scaffold during demolition work, falling and injuring his back and knee, which required surgeries.
- $2.1 million: for an undocumented construction worker who fell off a scaffold and sustained injuries that required surgery on his elbow and shoulder.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
These proven results highlight our dedication and experience in handling construction accident cases in New York City. If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free case evaluation at (646) 647-3398.
New York Laws and Regulations Affecting Construction Accident Claims
New York laws and regulations have a significant impact on construction accident claims. These rules are in place to protect workers and ensure safe job sites in the city. Many construction accidents occur on sites where safety regulations are not followed. When these rules are violated and lead to injury, workers may have strong grounds for a claim. When these rules are not met, injured workers may have strong grounds for a claim.
Several federal and state laws guide these claims. For example, federal safety standards enforced by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) apply to construction sites nationwide, including those in New York. The New York Labor Law sets additional rules to safeguard workers, while local building codes work to maintain safe construction practices. These laws help determine liability and guide the claims process after an accident.
A solid understanding of these regulations is crucial. Construction accident cases often involve detailed investigations to pinpoint the source of negligence. When standards are violated, an injured worker may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Courts in New York City review these cases under strict guidelines to ensure that injured parties receive fair treatment.
If you have been injured in a construction accident, knowing your rights under New York laws is critical. Our legal team is dedicated to navigating these complex regulations on your behalf and helping you secure the compensation you may be entitled to. Don’t delay your recovery by waiting to get legal help. Please contact us today for a free case evaluation at (646) 647-3398.
Common Injuries in Construction Accident Cases
Construction accidents in New York City can cause severe and life-changing injuries. Many victims suffer injuries that affect their ability to work and enjoy daily life. These cases often involve falls, equipment failures, or exposure to dangerous materials. The injuries can be complex and may require long-term treatment or surgery.
Below is a list of common injuries seen in construction accident cases:
Below is a list of common injuries in construction accident cases:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Injuries such as concussions or more severe brain trauma from falls or struck-by incidents.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine that may lead to permanent impairment, often resulting from falls or heavy object impacts.
- Fractures or Broken Bones: Breaks in the bones, including fractured femurs or arms, which can occur from falls or structural collapses.
- Soft-Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, lacerations, and contusions frequently caused by being struck by machinery or falling objects.
- Burn Injuries: Burns from electrical accidents, fires, or chemical exposures on construction sites.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs caused by blunt force trauma that require immediate medical attention.
- Amputations and Severe Limb Injuries: Loss of limbs or severe injuries to arms and legs due to accidents with heavy machinery or falling debris.
These injuries can disrupt your life and cause significant physical, emotional, and financial stress. If you or a loved one has suffered a construction accident injury in New York City, our experienced legal team is ready to help. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and start your path to recovery. Call us today at (646) 647-3398.
Steps to Take After a Construction Accident Incident in New York City
After a construction accident in New York City, it is important to act quickly to protect your health and your legal rights. Taking the right steps early can preserve essential evidence, support your claim, and help you pursue the compensation to which you may be legally entitled.
Below are the steps you should consider immediately after a construction accident:
- Seek Medical Attention: Get evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional, even if you feel fine. Medical documentation is key to your case.
- Report the Incident: Notify your employer, site supervisor, or property owner as soon as possible. An official report helps document the circumstances of the accident.
- Document the Scene: Take clear photos and videos of the accident site, equipment, and any hazards. This evidence is vital for your claim.
- Gather Witness Information: Collect names and contact details from anyone who saw the accident. Witness statements can strengthen your case.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep any work records, emails, or documents related to the incident. This information may prove crucial later.
- Avoid Unnecessary Discussions: Do not provide detailed statements to insurance adjusters or sign any documents without first consulting a construction accident attorney.
- Consult a Construction Accident Lawyer: Speak with a lawyer experienced in New York City construction accident claims. Legal guidance ensures that your rights are protected and helps strengthen your claim.
Following these steps promptly can preserve vital information and provide a strong foundation for your case. If you have been injured in a construction accident, our legal team is ready to help you navigate the complex process and fight for your full compensation. Contact us today for a free case evaluation at (646) 647-3398.
Establishing Liability in New York City Construction Accident Cases
In New York, liability for construction accidents can be established in multiple ways—and in some cases, you may not need to prove negligence at all. Understanding how responsibility is determined is essential for injured workers seeking compensation.
Labor Law Protections for Injured Construction Workers
New York Labor Law § 240, often called the Scaffold Law, offers powerful legal protections to construction workers injured in gravity-related accidents, such as falls from ladders, scaffolds, roofs, or being struck by falling objects. Under this law, property owners and general contractors can be held strictly liable if proper safety measures were not in place—even if they were not directly negligent.
This means that if a safety device like a harness or guardrail was missing or failed, and that led to your injury, you may be entitled to compensation regardless of whether anyone was “careless” in the traditional sense. The only major defense is if the worker’s own actions were the sole cause of the accident—for example, refusing to use properly provided safety equipment.
Other sections of New York Labor Law—such as § 241(6) and § 200—may also apply, depending on the nature of the job and the specific circumstances of the accident. These laws impose safety responsibilities on property owners, contractors, and subcontractors across a broad range of construction activities.
When Proving Negligence Is Necessary
In cases not covered by the Labor Law, liability is generally based on negligence. To prove negligence, your legal team must show that another party breached a duty of care owed to you and that this breach caused your injury. This typically involves examining factors such as:
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Safety Violations: Were mandatory safety rules or OSHA regulations ignored?
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Faulty Equipment: Did defective tools or machinery contribute to the incident?
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Inadequate Supervision: Was there a lack of training or site oversight?
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Hazardous Site Conditions: Was the worksite poorly maintained or unsecured?
Multiple parties can potentially be held liable, including the property owner, general contractor, subcontractors, or even equipment manufacturers.
Building a Strong Liability Case
Investigators gather a wide range of evidence, such as accident reports, safety inspection logs, witness statements, and surveillance footage. Expert testimony may also be used to explain how safety failures contributed to the accident.
Whether your case involves strict liability under New York’s Labor Laws or a negligence-based claim, The Orlow Firm can help you understand your legal options and build a strong case.
Injured at a construction site in New York City? You may have rights even if you can’t prove someone was careless. Call The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation. Let us help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under the law.
Damages You Can Recover in a New York City Construction Accident Case
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in New York City, the types of compensation you can recover will depend on how your claim is filed. Most injured workers are covered by New York’s workers’ compensation system, but full compensation—including damages for pain and suffering—typically requires a third-party lawsuit.
What Workers’ Compensation Covers
Under workers’ compensation, you may be entitled to:
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Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation related to your work injury.
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Partial Lost Wages: A percentage of your lost income if you’re unable to work during recovery.
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Permanent Disability Benefits: Compensation based on the severity of a lasting injury.
However, workers’ compensation does not provide damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, or full wage replacement.
When You Can Recover Additional Damages
To seek full compensation—including damages beyond what workers’ comp provides—you may be able to file a third-party personal injury claim. This type of lawsuit is only available if someone other than your employer—such as a subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer—contributed to your accident. In these cases, you can pursue additional damages not covered by workers’ compensation.
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A property owner who failed to maintain a safe worksite
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A subcontractor who created a hazardous condition
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A manufacturer of defective construction equipment
If successful, a third-party claim may allow you to recover:
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Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, discomfort, and emotional distress caused by the injury
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Emotional Distress: Damages for anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health effects
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Full Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity: Recovery of income lost during your time away from work and any future reduction in your ability to earn a living
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Property Damage: Reimbursement for personal property damaged in the incident
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Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care Costs: Including physical therapy, mobility aids, and ongoing support services
Every case is different, and our attorneys carefully assess the facts to determine all avenues of recovery available under New York law.
Have you or a loved one been injured on a construction site? You may be entitled to more than just workers’ comp. Contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation to find out whether a third-party claim can help you pursue full and fair compensation.
How We Maximize Compensation for Construction Accident Victims
At The Orlow Firm, we understand how devastating construction accidents can be—physically, emotionally, and financially. Our goal is to pursue every dollar of compensation you’re legally entitled to, whether through workers’ compensation or, when available, a third-party personal injury claim.
While workers’ compensation can help cover medical bills and a portion of lost wages, it does not provide compensation for pain and suffering or full lost income. To recover those additional damages, there must be a liable third party—such as a property owner, subcontractor, or equipment manufacturer—whose negligence contributed to your injury.
When that’s the case, our legal team builds a strong third-party claim in addition to guiding you through the workers’ comp process. Here’s how we maximize your potential compensation:
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Thorough Investigation: We examine the accident scene, safety records, equipment logs, and witness testimony to identify all responsible parties.
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Medical Documentation: We work with your healthcare providers to gather full records that detail the extent of your injuries and future medical needs.
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Liability Analysis: We evaluate whether any third parties—outside of your direct employer—can be held legally responsible under New York Labor Laws or negligence principles.
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Strategic Negotiations: We negotiate with insurance carriers and responsible parties to pursue a full and fair settlement that reflects your total damages.
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Trial Preparation: If a fair resolution cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court and advocate aggressively on your behalf.
Not every case will qualify for a third-party lawsuit, but when it does, we use every available legal tool to pursue full compensation. Our deep understanding of New York City’s construction safety regulations and liability laws allows us to explore every possible avenue for recovery.
Injured at a construction site?
You may be entitled to more than just workers’ comp. Call The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case and help you understand all your legal options.
Statute of Limitations and Deadlines in New York
New York law sets strict deadlines for filing construction accident claims. Generally, you have three years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. This period is known as the statute of limitations. Meeting this deadline is crucial. If you miss it, you risk losing your right to recover compensation.
In some cases, different rules apply. For example, if a government entity is involved, you may have only 90 days to file a claim. Other exceptions, such as wrongful death cases, have their own deadlines. It is important to act quickly to protect your rights.
Below are key points to keep in mind when dealing with construction accident claims in New York:
- Standard Personal Injury Deadline: Most construction accident claims must be filed within three years from the date of the incident. (CPLR § 214(5)).
- Government Claims Deadline: Cases involving a government entity often require that a notice of claim be filed within 90 days.(GML § 50-e)
- Special Circumstances: Claims for wrongful death or cases with unique circumstances may have different time limits.
Time is critical when dealing with these deadlines. Failing to file your claim within the required period can prevent you from recovering the compensation to which you may be legally entitled. If you have been injured in a construction accident in New York City, act now to protect your rights.
Contact our experienced New York City construction accident lawyers today for a free case evaluation. Call us at (646) 647-3398 to ensure your claim is filed on time.
Local Resources in New York City
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: Facilities such as Bellevue Hospital Center and NewYork-Presbyterian provide emergency care and specialized treatment for construction accident injuries. For more details, Visit Website.
- Law Enforcement: In the event of a serious incident, contact the local NYPD precinct for assistance. The NYPD website offers additional guidance and updates on public safety. Visit Website.
- Department of Buildings: The NYC Department of Buildings oversees construction standards and building safety. They offer resources and records that may be important for your case. Visit Website.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA sets and enforces safety standards in construction and other industries. Their website provides information on regulations and safety practices. Visit Website.
- New York State Workers’ Compensation Board: This board explains your rights to compensation if you are injured on the job and provides guidance on filing a claim. Visit Website.
These local resources can help ensure you receive the immediate assistance you need while also supporting your legal claim. If you have been injured in a construction accident, contact our dedicated legal team for a free consultation. Call us today at (646) 647-3398.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that construction accident claims can raise many questions. Below is a list of common questions we receive from clients in New York City who are dealing with construction accident cases.
- What is the statute of limitations for filing a construction accident claim? In New York, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Claims against certain public entities may have shorter deadlines.
- Can I still file a claim if I was partly at fault? Yes. New York follows pure comparative negligence.(CPLR § 1411). This means your recovery may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
- How is negligence established in a construction accident case? Negligence is established by showing that someone failed to meet a legal duty of care, and that this failure caused your injuries. This can include unsafe work practices, poor site maintenance, lack of proper supervision, or violations of safety regulations. However, in some New York construction accident cases—such as those involving falls from heights or falling objects—you may not need to prove negligence at all. Under New York Labor Law § 240, property owners and general contractors can be held strictly liable if safety equipment was missing or inadequate. An experienced attorney can help determine whether your case requires proving negligence or qualifies for strict liability.
- What types of damages can I recover? If you’re injured in a construction accident, the types of damages you can recover depend on the kind of claim you file. Workers’ compensation typically covers medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and disability benefits—but it does not include pain and suffering or full wage replacement. To recover additional damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and full lost income, you would need to file a third-party personal injury claim against someone other than your employer, such as a property owner, subcontractor, or equipment manufacturer.
- What steps should I take immediately after a construction accident? It is critical to seek prompt medical treatment, report the accident to your employer or site manager, and gather evidence of the incident.
- How can a construction accident lawyer help me? An attorney can guide you through the legal process, collect and preserve evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
If you have more questions or need clarity on any issue regarding your construction accident claim, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. Call us today for a free consultation at (646) 647-3398.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you have been injured in a construction accident in New York City, you need strong legal representation. We understand the challenges you face and are ready to help. Our attorneys will listen to your story and review your case at no cost. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
Below are a few reasons to call us today:
- Free Consultation: We offer a free evaluation to discuss your options.
- No Upfront Fees: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
- Local Experience: We know New York City laws and construction regulations.
- Personalized Attention: We care about your recovery and future stability.
We are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the compensation you may be entitled to. Do not wait to get the legal help you need. Call us today for a free consultation at (646) 647-3398.
This Page Was Written, Fact Checked & Legally Reviewed by The Orlow Firm
Cindy Cordova is a seasoned legal writer with over seven years of experience crafting clear, informative, and professional content for law firm websites. With a B.A. in English from Trinity Christian College, she combines her strong writing background with a deep understanding of legal topics to help firms connect with their clients through trustworthy and accessible content.
Rukshani Lye is The Orlow Firm’s IFCN-certified fact-checking and research specialist. With a master’s from Georgetown and 10+ years verifying complex data for legal, financial, and real-estate publications, she ensures every personal-injury article she reviews is accurate, up-to-date, and client-focused.
Brian Seth Orlow combines sharp legal skill with an approachable, upbeat demeanor that instantly puts clients at ease. A lifelong New Yorker who never misses a chance to recharge by the ocean, Brian channels the calm confidence of a beach-day breeze into fiercely advocating for those harmed by negligence or civil-rights violations.
I was involved in a car accident and sustained some serious injuries. I got in touch with The Orlow Firm and spoke to Brian. I couldn't have been happier with the results. I was always made to understand the decisions I needed to make, they were very flexible and patient with me and I truly believe they got me the most compensation possible due to their experience and knowledge. I recommend them to anyone looking for a personal injury firm in New York.
