Key Takeaways

• Defective construction equipment can lead to serious injuries, and you have a right to seek compensation.
• The Orlow Firm has the experience to help maximize your case.
• Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation

How The Orlow Firm Can Help You Maximize Your Case

Certainly, when it comes to navigating the complex world of personal injury law, especially in cases involving defective construction equipment, you want experienced attorneys by your side who know how to maximize the benefits you can receive. At The Orlow Firm, we offer a comprehensive approach to tackle your case from multiple angles.

Extensive Legal Consultation: From your very first interaction with us, we offer a comprehensive consultation to understand the nuances of your case. During this consultation, we assess the potential for compensation and guide you through the legal pathways available to you.

Meticulous Case Investigation: Once we take up your case, our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers collaborate with investigators, construction experts, and engineers to identify the fault in the equipment. This exhaustive research helps us to create a compelling case against the responsible parties.

Resourceful Team: We have a dedicated team consisting of paralegals, secretaries, and especially trained lawyers who focus on defective construction equipment cases. Our resourceful team ensures that all aspects of your case are covered.

Skilled Negotiation: Our lawyers are not just experienced in courtrooms; they are also skilled negotiators. We work diligently to negotiate settlements with the responsible parties and their insurance companies. Our aim is always to resolve the matter efficiently and secure the maximum compensation possible for you without a prolonged legal battle.

Trial-Ready: Although we aim for a settlement, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This rigorous preparation puts us in a strong negotiating position and ensures that we are ready to fight for your rights in court if needed.

Proven Track Record: We have an extensive history of successful verdicts and settlements in defective construction equipment cases. This track record shows our ability to handle complex cases and secure favorable outcomes for our clients.

Ethical Standards: We adhere to the highest ethical standards throughout the legal process. From transparent fee structures to continuous communication, we ensure you are informed every step of the way.

Comprehensive Damage Assessment: Often the damages in defective construction equipment cases aren’t just physical; they can be emotional and financial as well. We conduct a thorough damage assessment to ensure all your sufferings, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma, are quantified and included in the claim.

State-of-the-Art Technology: We employ the latest technology in case management and presentation, which allows us to organize evidence, documents, and testimonials efficiently. This contributes to building a compelling case whether it’s for negotiation or trial.

Emotional Support and Guidance: We understand that the aftermath of a construction accident can be traumatic. Hence, we provide not just legal but also emotional support to help you and your family through these tough times.

Strategic Alliances: We have built alliances with subject-matter experts, medical professionals, and other experts who can provide additional perspectives and testimonies to strengthen your case.

By entrusting your case to The Orlow Firm, you’re not just hiring an attorney; you’re securing a team of dedicated, experienced and skilled New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers who will stand by you from start to finish. For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

The Orlow Firm’s Successful Construction Accident Claims:

1. $3,375,000 for a construction worker who fell 12’ off a ladder. He injured his neck, back, elbow and shoulder. Both his neck and back required surgery.
2. $3,000,000 for construction worker who fell from a ladder sustaining a fractured femur requiring surgery as well as back injuries requiring surgery.
3. $2,500,000 for a construction worker who sustained injuries to his lower back requiring surgery when a wall collapsed on to the forklift he was operating.
4. $2,100,000 verdict for an undocumented construction worker who fell off a scaffold. He sustained injuries that required surgery to his elbow and shoulder.
5. $2,000,000 for a maintenance worker who fell while going down a cellar ladder. The fall caused injuries to his back that required surgery.
6. $1,850,000 for construction worker who was in the process of transporting an elevator platform when it toppled over into him causing an injury to his back which required surgery.
7. $1,750,000 Client was a construction worker who fell down stairs while carrying a bundle of metal studs. He injured his back requiring surgery.
8. $1,750,000 settlement for a construction worker who sustained a fractured ankle when he fell off a ladder. His ankle required multiple surgeries.
9. $1,600,000 for a construction worker injured when he fell down a temporary staircase which was shaking and not properly secured to the ground. He sustained injuries to his back requiring surgery which prevented him from working.
10. $1,375,000 for a construction accident in which a man fell from a scaffold, injuring his back and knee. The settlement was established through mediation.

Plus 10’s of millions more!

What Victims of Defective Construction Equipment Can be Compensated For in New York

In defective construction equipment cases, the consequences often go beyond physical injuries. The impacts stretch across various aspects of life, creating both economic and non-economic hardships. At The Orlow Firm, our skilled NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers strive to maximize your compensation by including all possible categories of damages.

Economic Damages:

Medical Expenses: This is often the most immediate concern and can include everything from emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and medication, to ongoing treatments and therapies.

Lost Wages: If your injury has caused you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn, you can be compensated for the income lost during this period.

Future Earnings: In some cases, injuries may impair your ability to work in the future. We calculate the potential future earnings you may lose due to a reduced capacity to work and include it in the claim.

Rehabilitation Costs: Many injuries require long-term rehab, which can be both time-consuming and expensive. These costs are also factored into your compensation.

Property Damage: If the defective construction equipment has also led to damage to your personal property (like your vehicle or tools), those costs can also be recovered.

Legal and Court Fees: While our initial consultation is free, pursuing a case will involve legal expenses. These can be incorporated into the damages sought.

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and Suffering: These damages aim to compensate for the physical pain and discomfort that you have undergone due to the accident.

Emotional Distress: The mental and emotional trauma that accompanies such incidents is often overwhelming. Emotional distress can include conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Loss of Consortium: If the injury has had a significant negative impact on your relationship with your spouse, you may be eligible for these damages.

Quality of Life: In severe cases where the injury has led to a permanent disability, affecting your day-to-day activities and enjoyment of life, compensation can be sought.

Punitive Damages: These are less common but can be sought in cases where the behavior of the responsible party was particularly egregious or reckless.

The goal of our New York City Defective Construction Equipment Attorneys at The Orlow Firm is to make sure every facet of your life that has been impacted by defective construction equipment is accounted for in your claim. While no amount of money can undo the trauma and pain you’ve experienced, appropriate financial compensation can significantly aid in your recovery and provide a semblance of justice.

For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Who’s Legally Responsible in Defective Construction Equipment Cases in New York?

Determining legal responsibility in defective construction equipment cases can be a complex endeavor. Multiple parties could be held liable, and establishing their roles in the incident requires thorough investigation and legal experience. Our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers at The Orlow Firm are adept at dissecting these intricate scenarios to identify who can be held accountable.

Equipment Manufacturers

The manufacturer of the defective equipment is often the first party scrutinized. If the equipment was flawed due to a design or manufacturing defect, or if the manufacturer failed to provide adequate safety instructions or warnings, they could be held liable.

Construction Companies

Employers have a duty to ensure that the equipment their employees use is safe. If the company was aware of the defects or failed to perform regular safety checks, they could share in the liability.

Contractors and Subcontractors

In many construction projects, various contractors and subcontractors are involved. These entities have their responsibilities, which may include the provision and maintenance of equipment. Failure to adhere to safety guidelines or the use of defective machinery could make them a party to your claim.

Equipment Retailers and Distributors

Those who sell or distribute construction equipment have a responsibility to ensure that the products they are offering are free of defects. If they knowingly sell defective equipment, they could be held accountable.

Maintenance Services

Some companies specialize in maintaining and repairing construction equipment. If poor maintenance contributed to the equipment’s failure, the maintenance service provider could be held legally responsible.

Engineers and Safety Inspectors

People tasked with assessing the condition of construction equipment and ensuring they meet all safety standards could also be held liable if their negligence resulted in the use of defective equipment.

Government Entities

In rare cases, if the construction project is government-owned or managed, and it was their negligence that led to the use of defective equipment, they could also be held accountable.

Identifying the liable parties is a crucial first step in any personal injury case, and it requires a strategic, detailed approach. Our team of New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine all parties who could be held legally liable for your injuries.

The complexity of these cases highlights the importance of choosing a legal team with the experience and resources to handle them effectively. For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Types of Injuries in Defective Construction Equipment Cases

Working in the construction industry exposes workers to a range of potential risks, and the use of defective construction equipment can significantly increase the severity of these hazards. Injuries sustained from defective equipment can vary from minor to catastrophic, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers at The Orlow Firm are experienced in handling a myriad of injury types related to defective construction machinery. Below are some common injuries you may encounter:

Broken Bones and Fractures

Faulty equipment can easily lead to falls or accidents that result in broken bones and fractures. The severity can range from simple fractures that heal in a few weeks to complex ones that may require surgical intervention and extensive physical therapy.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Malfunctioning equipment can cause serious injuries to the spine, which may lead to temporary or permanent paralysis, affecting your ability to work and significantly altering your quality of life.

Electrical Burns

Defective electrical equipment can cause severe electrical burns, often necessitating specialized medical treatment and potentially causing disfigurement or permanent scars.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can result from accidents involving defective construction equipment. These injuries can be painfully debilitating and often require prolonged treatment.

Amputations

In extreme cases, faulty equipment can lead to incidents that require the amputation of a limb. This type of injury has lifelong consequences, including significant medical expenses and lost earning potential.

Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Falls or impact from defective equipment can result in traumatic brain injuries, which could range from concussions to more severe conditions that affect cognitive functions and may even result in a coma.

Lacerations and Abrasions

Sharp or jagged edges on defective equipment can lead to deep cuts or skin abrasions, potentially leading to infection if not treated promptly.

Psychological Injuries

The emotional and psychological trauma following an accident can be equally damaging. Conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common after severe injuries.

Respiratory Issues

Defective equipment that leads to the release of harmful chemicals or dust can result in respiratory issues, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.

Due to the range of injuries that can occur, it’s critical to consult with a knowledgeable legal team that can guide you through the complexities of your case. Our team of New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure that you are adequately compensated for the injuries you’ve suffered.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to defective construction equipment, don’t wait. For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Types of Accidents Involving Defective Construction Equipment

Defective construction equipment can lead to a multitude of accidents, each carrying its own set of risks and repercussions. Understanding the kinds of accidents that commonly result from faulty machinery can help you make sense of your own situation and seek appropriate legal remedies. Our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers at The Orlow Firm have a wealth of experience in dealing with various types of accidents stemming from equipment malfunctions. Here’s a detailed overview:

Equipment Collapse Accidents

When scaffolding, cranes, or other load-bearing equipment fail, it can lead to collapses that endanger the lives of workers and even passersby. Such incidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities.

Mechanical Failures

This category includes malfunctions in machinery like forklifts, hoists, and conveyor belts. Failures can be due to design defects or wear and tear, leading to accidents such as falls or entrapment.

Electrical Accidents

Faulty wiring, circuitry, or controls in power tools and heavy machinery can lead to electrical shocks, burns, and electrocutions, putting workers at immediate risk.

Explosions and Fires

Defective equipment can lead to gas leaks or electrical short circuits that result in explosions and fires. These accidents can cause extreme injuries, extensive property damage, and loss of life.

Falling Object Accidents

When equipment designed to lift or hold objects fails, it can lead to falling object accidents. Workers below are at risk of being struck by falling equipment or materials, leading to severe head and body injuries.

Trench Collapses

Faulty support systems or excavation equipment can lead to trench collapses. Workers inside these trenches may suffer from suffocation, crushing injuries, or fatal accidents.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Defective ladders, scaffolds, or safety gear can cause workers to slip, trip, or fall from heights. These incidents often result in broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord damage.

Operator Errors

Sometimes, defective user interfaces or control systems can lead to operator errors. While the fault might initially appear to be human error, a deeper investigation might reveal that defective equipment played a role.

Vehicle Accidents

Construction sites often use vehicles like bulldozers, trucks, and front-end loaders. Defects in these vehicles, such as brake failures or steering issues, can lead to serious accidents.

Crushing Accidents

Workers can get caught or crushed between moving parts of machinery due to defective safety guards or malfunctioning controls.

Each type of accident necessitates a specific approach to establish liability and seek compensation. At The Orlow Firm, our team of New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers is skilled at identifying the unique aspects of your case to develop a robust legal strategy.

Injuries due to defective construction equipment should never be taken lightly. Your health, livelihood, and future are at stake. For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Relevant Laws Governing Defective Construction Equipment Cases

Understanding the legal landscape related to defective construction equipment is crucial for navigating the complexities of your case. At The Orlow Firm, our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers are well-versed in the various laws and regulations that can impact your claim. Here are some key legal frameworks to be aware of:

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)

One of the fundamental laws affecting workplace safety, including construction sites, is OSHA. This federal act sets forth various standards and guidelines to ensure the health and safety of workers. Any failure to adhere to these guidelines, particularly concerning equipment safety, can be a significant aspect of your case.

New York Labor Laws

New York has specific labor laws that offer additional protections to construction workers, such as Labor Law Sections 200, 240, and 241. These laws place the responsibility for safety, including equipment safety, on the owners, contractors, and their agents.

Product Liability Laws

Defective construction equipment cases often fall under the umbrella of product liability. In New York, you can bring a product liability claim based on negligence, strict liability, or breach of warranty. This means that you may not need to prove that the manufacturer was negligent, only that the product was defective and caused injury.

Common Law Negligence

Apart from statutory laws, claims can be based on common law principles of negligence. Under this doctrine, any party that acted negligently and contributed to the accident could be held liable.

Federal Regulations

Some construction equipment may be subject to federal regulations, such as those administered by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Violations of these regulations can be used as evidence of a defect or negligence.

Contract Law

Sometimes, the issue may stem from a contractual obligation between parties. Examination of contracts, warranties, and maintenance agreements may provide additional avenues for establishing liability.

Worker’s Compensation Laws

In New York, construction workers are generally covered under worker’s compensation laws for work-related injuries. However, worker’s compensation often provides limited benefits, and a separate personal injury claim against a third party like a manufacturer can provide more comprehensive compensation.

Understanding these laws and how they interplay is crucial for building a strong case. At The Orlow Firm, our team of New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers is adept at navigating these complicated legal frameworks to ensure you get the justice you deserve.

If you’re grappling with an injury caused by defective construction equipment, the law is on your side, but time is of the essence. For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Statute of Limitations: Critical Timelines for Defective Construction Equipment Cases in New York

The statute of limitations is a crucial legal concept that can have a significant impact on your defective construction equipment case. Simply put, it is a time limit within which you must file your lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries. At The Orlow Firm, our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers understand the importance of adhering to these timelines, as failing to do so could forfeit your right to seek justice and compensation.

Personal Injury Claims

In New York, the general statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years to initiate legal proceedings for injuries sustained due to defective construction equipment.

Product Liability Claims

For product liability cases, which defective equipment often falls under, the statute of limitations is also generally three years. However, this period starts from the date of the injury or the date when the injury should have been discovered with reasonable diligence.

Wrongful Death Claims

If defective construction equipment leads to a fatality, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of death.

Exceptions and Tolls

There are some scenarios where the statute of limitations can be extended or “tolled.” These can include:

• Minor Victims: If the victim is a minor, the statute of limitations clock usually starts ticking when they turn 18.
• Discovery Rule: In some cases, the injury may not be immediately apparent. The discovery rule allows the statute of limitations to start from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered.
• Bankruptcy of Defendant: If the responsible party files for bankruptcy, it may toll the statute of limitations until the bankruptcy proceedings are concluded.

Understanding the statute of limitations and its exceptions is critical for safeguarding your legal rights. Missing these deadlines can be a costly mistake, eliminating your chance for compensation regardless of the case’s merits.

At The Orlow Firm, our New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers are committed to keeping your case on track. We provide timely advice and action to ensure you don’t miss crucial legal deadlines.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to pursue justice. The clock is ticking, and every moment counts. For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Prevention Methods for Avoiding Defective Construction Equipment Accidents in New York City

Safety is a top priority on any construction site, and knowing how to avoid accidents related to defective construction equipment is crucial. While accidents can happen despite best efforts, there are several effective preventive measures that can significantly minimize the risks. At The Orlow Firm, our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers believe in not only helping you secure the compensation you deserve but also in promoting safety awareness.

Regular Equipment Checks

Regular inspection and maintenance of construction equipment can catch defects or wear and tear before they become serious hazards. Checks should be comprehensive, covering the mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic components.

Proper Training and Certification

Operators of construction equipment should undergo thorough training, which includes emergency procedures in case of equipment failure. Employers should make sure that workers operating machinery have received the proper certifications.

Manufacturer Guidelines

Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for equipment use, maintenance, and limitations. These guides are designed based on extensive testing and should be treated as essential safety protocols.

Safety Gear and PPE

Wearing appropriate safety gear, including hard hats, safety glasses, and ear protection, can minimize injury in case of an equipment malfunction.

Use of Technology

Incorporating technology like sensors or machine learning algorithms can help monitor equipment health, flagging any issues before they can lead to an accident.

Incident Reporting

Creating a culture where workers feel comfortable reporting defective or malfunctioning equipment can catch problems early on. No incident is too small to be recorded and addressed.

Compliance with OSHA and Local Laws

Both employers and employees should be familiar with OSHA guidelines and New York Labor Laws that relate to equipment safety. Keeping up to date with these can offer additional layers of protection.

Independent Quality Checks

Consider third-party audits and quality checks for equipment. Independent verification can provide an extra layer of safety assurance.

Periodic Re-assessment

Safety is an ongoing concern; it’s not a ‘set it and forget it’ scenario. Periodic safety meetings and training refreshers can keep safety top of mind and introduce new prevention methods as they become available.

By taking these precautionary measures seriously, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by defective construction equipment. Safety is a shared responsibility, and being proactive can save lives and prevent injuries. However, if you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of an accident due to defective equipment, our team of New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers is here to help.

Prevention is the best defense, but if an accident occurs, you have legal options. For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Additional Resources

Gathering the right information and knowing where to look for assistance can be crucial in dealing with accidents caused by defective construction equipment. At The Orlow Firm, our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers recommend the following resources for further information and support.

OSHA Guidelines

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers comprehensive guidelines on construction safety, including the use and maintenance of equipment.

• OSHA Construction Safety Standards

Consumer Product Safety Commission

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) provides recalls and safety alerts related to defective products, including construction equipment.

• CPSC Recalls and Alerts

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

NIOSH conducts research and provides recommendations to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses, including those that may occur due to defective construction equipment.

• NIOSH Construction Safety

New York City Building Codes

Understanding the local building codes can provide additional context on the required safety measures and can serve as a useful resource during a lawsuit.

• NYC Building Codes

We hope you find these resources helpful. However, when facing a legal situation involving defective construction equipment, professional legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances is invaluable. That’s where our team of New York City Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers comes into play.

For further guidance and a personalized approach to your case, For a Free Case Evaluation, Call (646) 647-3398 Now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I partly contributed to the accident?

In New York, you can still recover damages even if you’re partly at fault for the accident, but your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. To understand how this could affect your case, it’s best to consult with our NYC Defective Construction Equipment Lawyers.

Do I have to go to court?

While many cases are settled out of court, it’s possible that you may need to go to trial, depending on various factors like the willingness of the other party to settle. Our team will guide you through every step, whether your case is settled out of court or proceeds to trial.

How much does it cost to hire The Orlow Firm?

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. For a clear understanding of our fee structure, please call (646) 647-3398 for a Free Case Evaluation.

How long does it take to resolve such cases?

The timeline for resolving defective construction equipment cases can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the parties involved. A consultation with our experienced attorneys can provide a more accurate timeline specific to your case.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer?

Time is of the essence. In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible can maximize your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

What is my case worth?

The value of your case depends on multiple factors, including the severity of your injuries, the level of fault, and the type of damages you’ve incurred. For a precise evaluation, call (646) 647-3398 for a Free Case Evaluation.

Can I sue the manufacturer of the defective equipment?

Yes, you can potentially sue the manufacturer for a product defect under product liability laws. However, determining liability can be complex, making it essential to consult with our experienced lawyers.

For any more questions or for personalized advice tailored to your situation, call (646) 647-3398 for a Free Case Evaluation.

Why You Should Choose The Orlow Firm