March 06, 2023 | Publications

What Should You Do if You Suffer a Fall From a Height at a Construction Site in NYC

Construction site laborers frequently have to work at heights, and falling from any elevation, whether from a ladder or scaffolding on a high-rise building, poses a severe risk of injury or death.

Falls are among the accidents that contribute to fatal construction accidents. According to OSHA, fall protection is one of the most violated OSHA standards in 2021. There is no doubt why many construction workers get involved in falls that sometimes lead to their death.

New York State has enacted laws to safeguard construction workers, including those who work on scaffolding and other equipment elevated above ground level. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed due to a fall at a construction site, it is crucial to understand your rights and get in touch with the injury lawyer in New York at Karasik Law Group.

Falls from Scaffolding and Other Equipment

New York Labor Law 240 states that “All contractors and owners and their agents, except owners of one and two-family dwellings,” are responsible for constructing, positioning, and maintaining scaffolding and other equipment, allowing workers to perform their jobs at heights above the ground safely. Labor Law 240 applies to all staging equipment, including:

  • Ladders
  • Hoists
  • Pulleys
  • Pump jack systems
  • Ropes
  • Slings
  • Blocks
  • Aerial lifts

Understanding Your Rights After a Construction Site Fall

Falls at construction sites can have a life-changing impact on workers and their families. Workers’ compensation benefits cover medical expenses and partial lost wage replacement but not the full extent of potential damages. In some cases involving falls, you may be able to seek additional compensation through a claim against one or more third parties. Consider contacting a personal injury lawyer in Brooklyn who can evaluate your case and inform you of all available options for recovery.

Key Steps To Take Following a Fall on a Construction Site

If you are hurt in a fall at your workplace, there are several vital actions to take as soon as possible:

Seek Medical Care

Your top priority after falling from a height is to obtain treatment for any injuries you may have sustained. Falls can result in broken bones, brain and spinal cord damage, and other injuries; therefore, avoid attempting to stand up or move more than necessary. Contact 911 or ask a coworker or supervisor to do so for you.

Notify Your Employer of the Accident

To start receiving compensation, you must inform your employer of the accident promptly. This notification creates a record of the accident and your injuries, which will be essential if you file a third-party claim in addition to workers’ compensation benefits.

Submit a Workers’ Compensation Claim

You can file a claim with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board online, by phone, or by mailing in a completed form. Include the following information in your claim:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Details about your employer
  • Your job responsibilities, gross pay rate, and payment frequency
  • The location of the job site where the injury occurred
  • The nature and extent of your injuries

Family members of a worker killed on the job can file a Claim for Compensation in a Death Case through the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in New York

Workers’ compensation frequently does not cover the full expenses of your injuries after a fall or another severe work accident. It is always advisable to contact a construction accident attorney to discuss your rights and options. If you have had a construction accident NYC, Karasik Law Group wants you to know that New York statutes may entitle you to more than workers’ compensation.

Falls on construction sites are an increasing issue in New York, and many workers and their families have experienced the devastating consequences of these accidents firsthand. Karasik Law Group has extensive experience in handling intricate construction accident claims, including falls from scaffolding, ladders, and more.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a fall on a construction site, it is crucial to act promptly and seek legal advice. A qualified construction accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation and potential third-party claims, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Your actions in the aftermath of a fall can significantly impact the outcome of your case and your ability to secure the resources you need to heal and move forward. Contact Leading Law Firm Karasik Law Group today to sign up for a Free Consultation.

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