Scaffolding & Ladder Accident Lawyer – New York
Falls from heights are among the most dangerous accidents in the construction industry. Whether it’s a scaffold collapse in Midtown Manhattan or a ladder fall on a Long Island jobsite, these accidents can cause life-changing injuries. New York has strong worker protection laws—including Labor Law 240—that we use to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Serious Falls Require Serious Representation
A fall from a scaffold or ladder isn’t just another workplace accident—it’s often the result of unsafe conditions or missing safety measures. Broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries are common outcomes, and many victims can’t return to construction work. We represent construction workers across NYC’s five boroughs and Long Island, ensuring that your rights are protected under state law.
Your Rights Under Labor Law 240 (Scaffold Law)
Labor Law 240 requires property owners and general contractors to provide proper fall protection for workers at heights. This includes sturdy scaffolding, safe ladders, guardrails, and harnesses. If these protections aren’t in place—or fail—you may have a strong claim under this law. Unlike typical negligence cases, Labor Law 240 imposes strict liability, meaning you don’t have to prove the owner or contractor was careless—only that the law wasn’t followed and you were hurt.
Common Scaffold & Ladder Accident Scenarios
- Scaffold collapses due to improper assembly or lack of inspection.
- Ladders slipping or breaking because they weren’t secured or were defective.
- Falls caused by missing harnesses, guardrails, or toe boards.
- Workers struck by falling tools or debris from above.
- Open floor or roof holes not properly covered or marked.
Injuries and Long-Term Impact
Construction falls can leave you with:
- Multiple fractures requiring surgery
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Permanent loss of earning capacity
Workers’ compensation may cover some medical bills and partial lost wages—but it rarely covers the full financial toll of a serious injury. That’s where a lawsuit under Labor Law 240 can bridge the gap.
How We Build Your Case
We act quickly to preserve evidence, including site photos, safety reports, witness statements, and inspection records. Many of these cases can be resolved in your favor through summary judgment, avoiding lengthy trials. Even if you think you made a mistake that contributed to the accident, you may still be entitled to full recovery under the scaffold law unless you were the sole cause of your fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline to file a scaffold or ladder fall claim in New York?
You generally have three years from the date of the accident, but acting quickly helps preserve crucial evidence and witness testimony.
Do I still have a case if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Under Labor Law 240, you can still recover compensation unless you were the sole cause of your accident.
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Get Legal Help Now
From scaffold collapses in the Bronx to ladder accidents in Brooklyn, we’ve stood up for injured workers across New York. If you’ve been hurt in a fall, call us for a free consultation. We know the law, we know the tactics contractors use to avoid responsibility, and we know how to win for you.
