Scaffolding Accident Lawyer Near Queens, NY

Construction is constantly occurring across Queens and the rest of New York City, with new projects and renovations taking place year-round. One common sight in these busy construction zones is scaffolding, which are temporary structures made of metal poles, wooden planks, and other materials used to support workers and equipment at elevated heights. While scaffolding is important for providing access to hard-to-reach areas and ensuring construction efficiency, it can be extremely dangerous if proper safety protocols are not followed.

At Cohen & Cohen, we understand the devastating impact that scaffolding accidents can have on workers and their families. A scaffolding accident lawyer in Queens from our experienced team has seen firsthand how these accidents can lead to life-altering injuries, emotional trauma, stressful workman’s compensation claims, and financial hardships.

Whether it’s due to improper installation, inadequate maintenance, or a failure to adhere to federal and state safety regulations, scaffolding accidents in Queens can and should be prevented. If you or a loved one has been affected by a scaffolding accident, a dedicated scaffold accident lawyer in Queens is here to help you seek justice and fair compensation.

What Injuries Are Caused by Scaffolding Accidents in Queens, New York?

Scaffolding accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries due to the heights and risks that are factored in. Falls from scaffolds are one of the most common causes of injury, leading to devastating and often life-changing injuries. These accidents frequently result in vertebrae fractures, other back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Rib fractures and skull fractures are also common and can lead to long-term complications or disabilities. In the most severe cases, falls can cause spinal cord injuries that cause paralysis or even wrongful death.

In other instances, Queens scaffolding accidents may involve objects falling from the structure, which can cause:

• Crush injuries
• Soft tissue damage
• Damage to internal organs
• Electrocution
• Amputations

At Cohen & Cohen, we understand the devastating impact these injuries can have on your life. We work tirelessly to secure compensation for all your injuries, including enough to cover the ongoing medical treatment and any rehabilitation you may require in the future. Our team is here to help you manage the legal process and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve after sustaining injuries in a Queens scaffold accident.

Common Causes Of Scaffolding Accidents In Queens

Scaffolding accidents are a significant concern on construction sites across Queens and throughout New York City, where numerous construction projects rely on scaffolds to reach high places. OSHA reports millions of workers use scaffolds each year, with many accidents resulting from avoidable issues such as support failures, worker slips, lack of fall protection, or falling objects. These accidents typically fall into three main categories:

• Human Factors – Human factors that cause scaffolding accidents are often the result of negligence or a lack of safety awareness. Many accidents occur when workers fall due to inattention, improper use, or reaching too far over the scaffolding. Impairment from drugs, alcohol, or illness can also significantly impair judgment, leading to dangerous situations. Physical limitations, such as balance issues, may also contribute to scaffold accidents, as can a lack of proper training on how to safely use scaffolding and follow fall protection procedures.
• System Failures – System failures occur when scaffolding components fail, resulting in instability or collapse. Issues like foundation problems, where scaffolding tilts or buckles, can be caused by unstable or uneven ground. Weak connections or anchorage can lead to scaffolds shifting or falling apart under pressure. Additionally, defective materials may be unable to support the necessary weight, causing the scaffold to collapse unexpectedly.
• Environmental Factors – Environmental factors are considered external conditions that make scaffolding more hazardous. Weather-related issues, such as rain, ice, or strong winds, can throw workers off balance or create slippery surfaces. Noise or sudden movements in the environment can also disrupt a worker’s concentration or stability. Falling debris from higher levels is another significant environmental risk that can cause injury to workers on scaffolds below.

If you were injured in a scaffolding accident while on the job or due to the negligence of another person or party, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits or the right to pursue a personal injury claim. These avenues can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by the accident. To understand your rights and explore your legal options, contact a scaffolding injury attorney in Queens from our team at Cohen & Cohen. We are here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Types Of Scaffolding Accidents In Queens

Scaffolding accidents are a serious risk on construction sites in Queens and throughout New York City, especially if state and OSHA guidelines are being followed. These accidents can happen in various ways, however, they often lead to catastrophic injuries or even fatalities. Understanding the common types of scaffolding accidents highlights the dangers workers face and the importance of implementing and adhering to safety measures.

• Falls from Height – One of the most common scaffolding accidents involves workers falling from significant heights. Whether due to a lack of safety gear, slippery surfaces, or improper use of scaffolding, falls can result in severe injuries such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or paralysis.
• Scaffold Collapse – When a scaffold collapses, it can cause widespread injury to workers on or around the structure. Collapses often occur due to poor assembly, defective materials, or an unstable foundation, leaving employees with crush injuries or worse.
• Electrocution Near Power Lines – Scaffolding placed near power lines creates a big risk of electrocution for workers. Contact with live wires or electrical currents can cause serious burns, nerve damage, or even death. Proper precautions and clearances are essential to prevent this type of scaffolding accident.
• Falling Objects – Improperly secured tools, materials, or debris falling from scaffolding pose a significant risk to those below. These objects can cause severe injuries, including head trauma, crushing injuries, or damage to internal organs, especially if workers are not equipped with proper protective gear.

At Cohen & Cohen, we are dedicated to helping victims of scaffolding accidents in Queens seek justice and pursue compensation for their injuries. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a scaffolding accident, an experienced scaffold accident lawyer in Queens from our team will help you through the entire process.

Who’s Responsible for My New York Scaffolding Accident Injuries?

Determining liability for scaffolding injuries often involves assessing negligence and whether there was compliance with New York’s labor laws. Under New York Labor Law 200, construction company owners and contractors are required to take “reasonable precautions” in the workplace to create a safe work environment at all times. This includes making sure that all equipment, machinery, and other devices are safely operated and properly maintained to protect workers. It also extends protection to visitors on the job site by mandating that any person on the job site must take proper safety measures, such as:

• Wearing hard hats
• Installing guardrails
• Providing adequate lighting

Failure to meet these state-mandated obligations can make them liable for injuries resulting from unsafe conditions.

Additionally, workers injured in scaffolding accidents or other gravity-related incidents may pursue claims under New York Labor Law 240, commonly known as the “Scaffold Law.” This law imposes absolute, non-negotiable liability on property owners and general contractors, except for property owners of one- or two-family homes who do not oversee the work. A claim filed under Labor Law 240 allows injured workers to seek compensation for damages beyond what workers’ compensation covers, such as excess wage loss, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

If you were not working at the time of your scaffolding accident, or you’re not sure if your employer is liable for the accident, don’t hesitate to contact our team. A scaffold accident lawyer in Queens from Cohen & Cohen can help determine who is at fault and assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Proving Liability in a Scaffolding Accident Near Queens

While New York Labor Law 200 and Labor Law 240 (the “Scaffold Law”) provide strong protections for workers and job site visitors and seem to make proving liability straightforward, these cases can still become complex. Labor Law 200 requires construction company owners and contractors to provide safe working conditions, while Labor Law 240 imposes strict liability on property owners and general contractors for gravity-related accidents. However, gathering the evidence necessary to prove liability under these two laws often requires detailed investigation and experienced legal guidance.

Proving your Queens scaffold accident claim may involve demonstrating:

• That safety protocols were neglected
• Equipment was improperly maintained
• Proper fall protections were not provided

This often requires securing testimony from witnesses, reviewing safety records, consulting industry experts, and collecting photographic or video evidence of the accident scene. Insurance companies and at-fault parties may also dispute the extent of their liability, adding another layer of challenge to your case.

A scaffold accident attorney near you from Cohen & Cohen can take the burden off your shoulders when it comes to the burden of proof in scaffold injury cases. Our experienced legal team will meticulously gather the evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a strong case on your behalf. We are committed to fighting for the compensation and justice you deserve.

What To Do After A Scaffolding Accident In Queens, NY

If you’ve been involved in a scaffold accident, whether as an employee on a job site or as a visitor or passerby, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and strengthen your potential legal claim.

If You Are an Employee on a Job Site:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Your health and safety come first always. Even if injuries seem minor, have a medical professional evaluate you. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Report the Accident to Your Supervisor – Notify your employer or site manager as soon as possible and ensure an official incident report is created. This documentation is important for workers’ compensation and any future claims.
3. Document the Scene – If you are physically able, take photos or videos of the accident site, the scaffolding, and any hazardous conditions that may have contributed to your fall or injury.
4. Gather Witness Information – Collect the names and contact information of any coworkers or individuals who witnessed the accident. Their testimony can support your claim for compensation.
5. Consult a Scaffold Accident Lawyer Near You – A scaffolding accident attorney near you can help you navigate workers’ compensation claims or pursue additional damages under New York Labor Law if negligence plays a role in your injury.

If You Are a Pedestrian

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – If you are struck by falling objects or injured near scaffolding, prioritize medical attention to assess and treat your injuries.
2. Call Emergency Services – If the accident is severe, ensure police or emergency responders are notified to document the accident.
3. Document the Scene – Take photos or videos of the scaffolding, any falling objects, and the location where the accident occurred. Record any unsafe conditions, such as missing barriers, debris, or unsecured equipment that were present.
4. Speak to Witnesses – If others saw the accident happen, make sure to gather their contact information for potential testimony.
5. Contact a Scaffold Accident Lawyer – Liability in pedestrian scaffolding accidents can be complex. An experienced attorney can identify the responsible parties, such as contractors, property owners, or construction companies, and create a claim to pursue compensation for your injuries.

At Cohen & Cohen, we understand the challenges scaffold accident victims face, whether they are workers or pedestrians. Our team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.