New York City
Construction Accident lawyer

If you got hurt in a construction accident in New York, finding the right help matters. We at The Silbowitz Firm stand ready as your new york construction accident lawyer to guide you through the process and seek the money you deserve. Construction sites fill the city, from rebuilding old bridges to raising new towers. With over three decades of work in personal injury cases, our founder Mitchell Silbowitz has handled more than 1,000 cases. He started his career in 1989 and built a strong record in fighting for people hurt in accidents like these.

New York City has a long history of big building projects. Think about the Empire State Building, finished in 1931 during the Great Depression. Workers faced tough conditions back then, with few safety rules. Today, laws protect workers better, but accidents still happen often. The city sees thousands of construction injuries each year. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows about 10,400 nonfatal construction injuries across the state in a recent year. Many of these force workers to miss days or switch jobs.

We focus on helping construction workers who face life changes after an injury. Our team knows the city’s busy sites, from Manhattan skyscrapers to Brooklyn renovations. We work to find every way to get you paid, whether through workers’ compensation or a lawsuit against those at fault.

Why Choose Us for Your Construction Accident Case

We bring years of skill to construction accident cases in New York. Mitchell Silbowitz, our founder, earned his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law in 1988. He belongs to the New York State Trial Lawyers Association and holds a spot as a Super Lawyer from 2020 to 2024. As a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Trial Lawyers, he shows a strong track record.

Our firm handles cases involving falls, machinery issues, and more. We look into each detail to build a solid case. Workers in New York deal with crowded sites near landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, where history meets modern building. This mix can lead to risks if safety slips.

We offer a free first talk about your case. You pay nothing until we win money for you. This setup lets you focus on healing while we handle the legal side. Our approach includes checking all evidence and talking to experts. We aim to get you the most possible from lost pay, medical bills, and pain.

In New York, construction drives the economy. The industry employs thousands, but it ranks as one of the riskiest. Facts show falls cause many deaths. A report notes falls made up 48 percent of construction fatalities statewide over 10 years. In the city, that number hits 64 percent in one year. We use this knowledge to strengthen your claim.

Our team represents workers from various trades. We understand the daily dangers they face. From high scaffolds near Central Park to underground work in subways, risks lurk everywhere. We fight to hold parties responsible, even if they had no direct role in your job.

Understanding Your Rights After a Construction Accident in New York

New York has special laws to protect construction workers. These rules come from a time when the city grew fast, like during the building boom after World War II. Laws such as Labor Law 240, known as the Scaffold Law, cover falls from heights and falling objects. This law lets you sue owners or contractors for not providing proper safety gear.

Labor Law 241 deals with code violations, like unsafe tools or electric shocks. It applies to many accident types, including crane mishaps and slips. Labor Law 200 focuses on general safety failures, similar to a negligence claim.

These laws matter because workers’ compensation alone often falls short. It covers medical costs and part of lost wages, but not pain or full earnings loss. A lawsuit can fill those gaps. For example, you might recover for future medical needs or reduced work ability.

We handle all claim types: workers’ compensation, personal injury suits, and Social Security disability if needed. New York’s history of strong labor unions pushed for these protections. Think of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911, which led to better safety laws. Today, we build on that legacy to help injured workers.

If you lost a loved one in an accident, wrongful death claims exist too. Time limits apply, so act soon. You have three years for most personal injury suits against private parties, but only two for workers’ comp or wrongful death.

Common Types of Construction Accidents We Handle

Construction sites in New York buzz with activity. From the High Line’s modern parks to ongoing subway expansions, work never stops. But this pace brings dangers. We see many accident types in our cases.

Here are some common ones:

• Falls from ladders or scaffolds
• Struck by falling objects or debris
• Crane accidents
• Electrical shocks
• Machinery malfunctions
• Slip and falls on site
• Demolition mishaps
• Toxic exposure
• Building collapses
• Elevator accidents
• Trench collapses
• Fires and explosions
• Cement burns
• Welding injuries
• Hoist failures
• Weather-related slips
• Pedestrian incidents near sites
• Roofing falls
• Painting mishaps
• Hand tool injuries

Each type can cause serious harm, from broken bones to brain injuries. We investigate to find the cause, often a safety rule break. OSHA sets standards, but violations happen. Data shows non-union sites have higher risks, with 86 percent of fatal accidents there involving non-union workers in one year.

Our firm takes on all these cases. We work with experts like engineers to prove fault. In a city with icons like the Statue of Liberty, restored over time, safe practices save lives. When they fail, we step in.

Workers We Represent in Construction Accident Claims

New York construction draws people from all walks. The industry’s growth ties to the city’s immigrant history, with workers building landmarks like the Chrysler Building in the 1920s. Today, we represent a wide range of trades.

Our clients include:

• Carpenters
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Iron workers
• Laborers
• Masons
• Painters
• Roofers
• Crane operators
• Forklift drivers
• Sheet metal workers
• Drywall installers
• Bricklayers
• Welders
• Pipefitters
• Utility workers
• Window washers
• Tunnel diggers
• Maintenance staff
• Undocumented workers

We know each job has unique risks. For instance, iron workers on high beams face falls, while electricians deal with shocks. Latino workers, making up 10 percent of the workforce, suffer 18 percent of job deaths, per reports. Older workers, aged 55-64, face higher fatal risks too.

No matter your background, we fight for you. New York’s diverse workforce built the city, from Ellis Island arrivals to today’s crews. We ensure everyone gets fair treatment under the law.

Steps to Take After a Construction Accident in New York

Getting hurt on the job shocks you. See a doctor right away, even if the injury seems small. Some problems worsen over time. Avoid site doctors who might not fully check you. They could take statements for insurance use against you.

Go to an emergency room or your trusted doctor. Insurers might send nurses to appointments, but their goal cuts costs. Wait for a lawyer before giving statements.

Report the accident to your boss soon. This starts the workers’ comp process. Then, contact us for a free review. We help file claims and gather proof.

In New York, with its dense traffic and sites near places like Times Square, accidents can involve outsiders too. Preserve evidence, like photos of the scene. Witnesses help build your case.

We guide you through each step. From filing paperwork to court if needed. Quick action matters, as evidence fades fast in a busy city.

Compensation You Can Seek in a New York Construction Accident Case

Injuries bring bills and stress. We work to recover various damages. Workers’ comp covers medical costs, partial wages, and death benefits. But it skips pain and full losses.

A lawsuit against third parties can add:

• Pain and suffering
• Full lost wages
• Future earning drops
• Medical expenses past and future
• Physical therapy
• Counseling
• Loss of enjoyment with family

Punitive damages apply in bad cases.

New York’s no-fault workers’ comp pays regardless of blame. But for full recovery, sue negligent parties like owners or subcontractors. Under Labor Law, you can hold them liable even without direct involvement.

We identify all sources. In a city with high costs, like rent near landmarks such as Rockefeller Center, full pay helps families stay afloat.

Determining Who Is at Fault in Your Construction Accident

Fault, or liability, starts our review. New York laws let you sue site owners, general contractors, subs, and more. Even equipment makers if faulty tools caused harm.

We dig into contracts and insurance. This finds the best payout paths. OSHA probes accidents, but fines average $44,779 for fatals, too low to deter some.

In history, the 1930s saw the Hoover Dam project with many deaths, leading to better rules. New York follows suit. We use experts to show violations.

Contact us to sort fault. Our free consult clears options.

Time Limits for Filing a Construction Accident Claim in New York

Deadlines matter. For personal injury against private firms, you have three years from the accident. Workers’ comp needs filing within two years. Wrongful death: two years from death. Against government, like city projects near the Hudson River, file notice in 90 days. Miss these, and you lose rights. Start early. We preserve evidence and build your case. In a fast city like New York, time flies.

New York City Construction Accident Statistics

Construction fuels New York City’s growth, from skyscrapers in Manhattan to renovations in Brooklyn. Yet, this vital industry brings serious risks. Below, we break down key statistics to show the dangers workers face and why strong legal help matters. These numbers, drawn from trusted sources, highlight the need for safety and fair compensation.

• High Fatality Rates: In a recent year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 59 fatal work injuries in New York City. Of those, 17 (about 29%) tied to construction, extraction, or maintenance. Statewide, 53 construction-related deaths occurred, showing the industry’s heavy toll.
• Nonfatal Injuries: BLS data notes around 10,400 nonfatal construction injuries across New York State in one year. Roughly 7,400 of these forced workers to miss days, switch jobs, or work under medical limits, impacting lives and livelihoods.
• Falls as Leading Cause: Falls are the top killer in construction. A New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) report found falls caused 48% of construction deaths statewide over a decade. In NYC, falls accounted for 64% of fatal construction injuries in a single year.
• Non-Union Site Risks: Non-union sites see more accidents. NYCOSH data from one year’s 23 OSHA investigations showed 79% of NYC workers who died on private sites were non-union. Statewide, this figure hit 86%, pointing to weaker safety practices.
• Vulnerable Workers: Latino workers face higher risks, making up 10% of the state’s workforce but 18% of job-related deaths. Older workers (ages 55-64) also die more often, followed by those aged 35-44, per NYCOSH.
• Declining Oversight: OSHA inspections have dropped sharply. From 13,000 in 1987, inspections fell to about 4,000 in a recent year. Fines for fatal accidents averaged $44,779, with the highest at $300,370—often too low to drive change.

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accidents in New York

Construction sites in New York City are full of risks, and getting hurt can leave you with big questions. Below, we answer the five most important concerns to help you understand your next steps. The Silbowitz Firm is here to guide you with clear answers.

Can I still file a claim if I’m an undocumented worker?

Yes, you can. In New York, all workers, including undocumented ones, can file for workers’ compensation to cover medical bills and part of lost wages. You can also sue third parties, like site owners or contractors, for additional damages, such as pain and suffering.

Can I sue my employer for my construction accident?

No, New York law prevents suing your employer directly. Workers’ compensation is your main option for employer-related claims. However, you can sue others, like property owners or equipment makers, if their actions caused your injury.

Do I really need a lawyer for my construction accident?

A lawyer greatly improves your chances of full compensation. Workers’ comp often misses pain and suffering or full wage losses. We investigate, identify liable parties, and fight for more, especially in complex cases near busy areas like Times Square.

How long does it take to get compensation?

It varies. Workers’ comp can pay medical bills and wages within weeks if filed quickly. Lawsuits may take months to years, depending on evidence and negotiations. We work to move things along while seeking the maximum payout.

Should I give a recorded statement to the insurance company?

Wait until you speak with us. Insurance companies may use your statement to reduce your claim. Early statements, given when you’re in pain or unaware of injury severity, can weaken your case. Let us advise you first.

Contact The Silbowitz Firm Today

If you or someone you love got hurt in a construction accident in New York City, don’t wait to get help. The Silbowitz Firm stands ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. With over 30 years of experience, led by our founder Mitchell Silbowitz, we’ve helped thousands of workers across the city—from bustling Manhattan sites near Times Square to quiet renovations in Staten Island. Call us at (516) 375-6692 or fill out our online form for a free, no-risk consultation.