Standing Up for Workers Injured on Dangerous Job Sites
Construction sites are among the most hazardous workplaces in New York. From large-scale infrastructure projects to residential renovations and commercial builds, workers face serious risks every day. When safety protocols are ignored, equipment fails, or job sites are poorly maintained, the results can be catastrophic.
At Kramer, Dillof, Livingston & Moore (KDLM), our New York construction accident lawyers represent workers who have suffered serious injuries due to unsafe conditions and workplace negligence. For decades, our firm has stood up for injured construction workers and their families, helping them pursue accountability and financial recovery after life-altering accidents.
With more than $3 billion recovered for clients and hundreds of significant verdicts and settlements, KDLM has built a reputation for thorough investigation, careful preparation, and determined advocacy in complex construction accident cases.
Why Construction Accidents Are So Common in New York?
New York City’s skyline is constantly evolving. Construction never stops, and neither do the risks. Tight deadlines, crowded work zones, multiple contractors on a single site, and pressure to cut costs often create unsafe conditions.
Despite strong labor protections, accidents still occur when:
- Safety equipment is missing or improperly installed
- Workers are not given adequate training
- Job sites are poorly supervised
- Hazards are left unaddressed
- Contractors fail to comply with the New York Labor Law
These failures can put not only workers at risk, but also pedestrians, visitors, and nearby
What are the 7 types of construction accidents?
KDLM attorneys handle a wide range of construction accident cases. Some of the most frequent causes of serious injury include:
Falls From Heights
Falls remain one of the leading causes of severe injury and death on construction sites. These incidents may involve:
- Scaffolding collapses or becomes unstable
- Ladder failures
- Roof falls
- Unprotected edges or openings
Falling Objects and Debris
Tools, materials, and equipment dropped from heights can cause devastating injuries to workers below, even when protective gear is worn.
Equipment and Machinery Accidents
Construction work often involves heavy machinery and power tools. Accidents can occur due to:
- Mechanical defects
- Improper maintenance
- Inadequate training
- Missing safety guards
Crane and Hoisting Accidents
Crane failures and hoisting accidents can result in massive injuries, fatalities, and property damage, often involving multiple responsible parties.
Electrical Accidents
Electrocution and electrical burns can happen when exposed wiring, faulty equipment, or unsafe power sources are present on a job site.
Fires and Explosions
Flammable materials, gas lines, and chemical exposure can lead to fires or explosions with long-term physical and emotional consequences.
Excavation and Trench Accidents
Cave-ins and excavation failures can trap or crush workers, leading to catastrophic injuries or death.
Serious Injuries Resulting From Construction Accidents
While minor injuries may heal with time, many construction accidents cause severe and permanent harm, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Crush injuries
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Broken bones and complex fractures
- Head, neck, and back injuries
- Wrongful death
These injuries often require long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments. Some prevent injured workers from ever returning to their trade.
What to Do After a Construction Accident in New York?
Taking the right steps after an accident can protect both your health and your legal rights.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first. Even injuries that appear minor can worsen over time. If emergency care is needed, go to the nearest hospital. Be cautious about relying solely on on-site medical personnel, as their evaluations may be limited.
Choose a Doctor You Trust
You have the right to seek care from a medical provider you trust. Statements made to doctors affiliated with insurers or employers may later be used in ways that are not in your best interest.
Be Careful With Insurance Communications
Insurance companies often act quickly after a workplace injury. Requests to send nurses to appointments or to obtain statements may be aimed at minimizing your claim. Speaking with an experienced attorney before providing recorded or written statements can help protect your rights.
Understand Your Rights Under New York Law
New York Labor Law provides strong protections for construction workers, particularly in cases involving elevation-related risks and unsafe job site conditions.
Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Construction Worker
New York recognizes the essential role construction workers play in building and maintaining the city. As a result, state laws hold contractors, property owners, and other responsible parties accountable when safety standards are violated.
Depending on the circumstances, an injured worker may have options beyond workers’ compensation, including filing a personal injury lawsuit against a negligent contractor, subcontractor, or property owner.
Each case is unique, and determining liability requires a careful review of job site conditions, safety procedures, and contractual relationships.
Pursuing Compensation After a Construction Accident
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Many injured construction workers qualify for workers’ compensation, which may cover:
- Medical treatment
- A portion of lost wages
- Permanent disability benefits
- Death benefits for surviving family members
However, workers’ compensation does not cover all losses and is not available to everyone, including many self-employed workers.
Personal Injury Lawsuits
In appropriate cases, a personal injury claim may allow recovery for additional damages, such as:
- Full lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical care and rehabilitation
- In-home assistance and medical devices
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
KDLM’s attorneys evaluate all potential avenues for recovery to ensure injured workers receive fair and complete compensation.
Proven Results in Construction Accident Cases
KDLM has earned national recognition for its work on behalf of injured construction workers and employees in other dangerous environments.
Past results include:
- A verdict exceeding $3 million for a worker injured due to unsafe flooring conditions
- A multi-million-dollar settlement for a tradesman injured in a ladder fall
While every case is different, these outcomes reflect the firm’s commitment to accountability and its ability to handle complex injury litigation.
Why Choose KDLM as Your New York Construction Accident Lawyer?
Construction accident cases are not routine injury claims. They demand an in-depth understanding of construction practices, safety regulations, and New York labor laws.
KDLM attorneys bring:
- Decades of experience handling serious injury cases
- Thorough investigative resources
- A history of aggressive courtroom advocacy
- A reputation respected by courts and opponents alike
Our firm prepares every case as if it will go to trial, positioning clients for the strongest possible outcome.
Speak With an Experienced New York Construction Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction or workplace accident, it is important to act promptly. Legal deadlines may apply, and early investigation can make a critical difference.
Kramer, Dillof, Livingston & Moore offers free consultations and represents clients on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees are only paid if compensation is recovered.
Our attorneys take the time to listen, explain your options, and guide you through every step of the process. To learn more about your rights and potential next steps, contact KDLM today for a confidential case review.