Navigating the bustling streets of New York City means weaving through a maze of towering scaffolds, a testament to the city’s relentless development and iconic skyline. However, these structures, integral to construction and maintenance, also pose significant risks that can lead to severe accidents.
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a scaffolding incident, you’re likely overwhelmed and searching for answers. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we understand the gravity of such situations and will help you through this challenging time. We are committed to providing compassionate and quality legal assistance as your trusted New York scaffold accident lawyer. We aim to help you through the legal process and help secure the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Scaffolding Laws in New York?
New York City takes worker safety on construction sites very seriously. The state’s Scaffold Law, also known as Labor Law § 240, requires contractors and owners to implement several safety measures. These measures include scaffolding, hoists, ladders, braces, and hangers. The goal is to protect employees.
Under this law, owners and contractors are strictly liable for injuries sustained by workers in gravity-related falls from elevation due to inadequate safety devices like scaffolding, hoists, ladders, or safety lines. Note that liability under Section 240 is separate from filing a workers’ compensation claim.
What Are Common Causes of Scaffolding Accidents?
Knowing the common causes of scaffolding accidents can help raise awareness and potentially prevent tragedies. If you’ve been injured in a scaffolding accident, understanding the cause can be crucial to receiving just compensation. A skilled NYC scaffolding accident attorney can investigate the cause of your accident and determine whether you have a case.
Here are some of the most frequent causes of scaffolding accidents:
- Improper assembly or maintenance—the improper erection and maintenance of scaffolding can lead to catastrophic failures;
- Defective materials—faulty components like planks, guardrails, and fasteners can significantly weaken the scaffolding’s integrity;
- Overloading the structure—exceeding weight limitations can cause a collapse;
- Failure to follow safety protocols—could include inadequate fall protection, improper use of the scaffolding, or a lack of worker training;
- Structural failures—scaffolding must be adequately designed and constructed to support the weight of workers and materials;
- Falling objects—tools, materials, and debris falling from scaffolding can cause severe injuries to workers and passersby below; and
- Adverse weather conditions—strong winds or icy surfaces can create hazardous conditions and increase risks.
This list includes just some of the potential causes of scaffolding accidents. A thorough investigation by a New York City scaffold accident attorney can pinpoint the specific cause in your case and help you hold the responsible parties accountable.
What Types of Injuries Are Caused by Scaffolding Accidents?
Scaffolding collapses can happen in a split second, and the falls they cause can result in a wide range of injuries, some more severe than others. If you’ve been injured in a scaffolding accident, consulting with a scaffolding injury attorney will help you understand the extent of your damages and pursue fair compensation.
The severity of injuries depends on several factors, including the height of the fall, the surface landed on, and safety equipment worn. However, the most common scaffolding accident injuries include:
- Bone fractures—these injuries can range from minor breaks to complex shattered bones, requiring extensive surgery and rehabilitation;
- Spinal cord injuries—these life-altering injuries can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and permanent mobility issues;
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)—TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe damage that affects cognitive function, memory, and motor skills;
- Internal organ damage—the blunt force trauma from a fall can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs;
- Soft tissue injuries—sprains, strains, and deep cuts are common in scaffolding accidents; and
- Death—in the most tragic cases, scaffolding accidents can result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with the loss of a loved one.
The physical pain and emotional distress associated with these injuries can be overwhelming. A seasoned scaffolding injury lawyer can help you receive the necessary medical care and fight for compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
How Can Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. Help Me?
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we understand the devastating impact a scaffolding accident can have on victims and their families. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. We focus on:
- Conducting a comprehensive investigation. We will meticulously examine the accident scene. We gather evidence, identify the cause of the incident, and identify all potentially liable parties.
- Building a solid case. Our legal team will work tirelessly to create a compelling case that maximizes your compensation.
- Negotiating aggressively. We will fight for a fair settlement with insurance companies. But if negotiations fail, we are prepared to take your case to court.
- Providing compassionate support. We understand the emotional toll a scaffolding accident can take. We will be by your side throughout the legal process, offering guidance and support.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a NYC scaffolding accident, don’t hesitate to contact Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. Let us help you navigate the legal system and recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact a New York Scaffold Accident Lawyer to Get the Justice You Deserve
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., our New York scaffold accident lawyers have decades of combined legal experience and a proven track record of success. We stay up-to-date on all personal injury laws, including the Scaffold Law, to ensure we provide the most effective representation possible.
We understand your significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens after a scaffolding accident. Our compassionate legal team will fight tirelessly to recover the maximum compensation for your injuries. Our track record of success speaks for itself—we’ve recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients.
Don’t wait to seek justice. Contact Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. today for a free consultation. We’ll answer your questions, explore your legal options, and guide you through every step of the process. Let us help you move forward.
