Ladder Accident Lawyer in New York City

If you have been injured in a workplace ladder fall in New York, the dedicated ladder accident attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf  are ready to assist you in obtaining the rightful compensation you require. Contact our Manhattan office today at (212) 943-1090 to arrange a complimentary case assessment. Your well-being is our priority.

Our NYC Ladder Accident Attorneys Have the Experience and the Resources to Handle Your Case Properly

Many attorneys in New York claim to handle ladder accident cases, but they do not possess the knowledge and familiarity with the applicable State and federal laws to adequately insure that their injured clients receive the maximum recovery possible. A law firm with the resources, experience, and personnel necessary to properly investigate and pursue the claim is crucial. Among the most recent ladder accident lawsuits won by our NYC Construction Accident Attorneys were:

Ladder accidents are among the most common causes of workplace injury and death in New York, particularly at construction sites. Whenever construction workers need to work at heights above ground level or a lower structural level, the risk of injury or death increases dramatically. Specific laws and rules have been enacted in order to protect construction workers who are required to work at various heights. These laws mandate that certain types of ladders or scaffolds be used for a given job and they also mandate how those safety devices are to be properly utilized. 

For example, an extension ladder may be the safest method of performing a particular job, but only an A-Frame ladder is available. That A-Frame ladder is the used and it is not long enough to perform the job safely and an accident results. 

In New York, our Labor Law places the responsibility on both the building owner and the General Contractor at a construction site to insure that the workers are given the proper ladders or other safety equipment to perform their jobs safely.

Not only do the laws in New York require that proper ladders be provided to construction workers, the laws also require that an owner and general contractor at a construction site insure that the ladders are not defectively maintained, placed or operated. 

All too often, workers at construction sites in New York are injured because they are forced to use a ladder that is old or broken and serious injuries result. The threat of termination or other repercussions often forces workers to use ladders and other equipment that they know is either unsafe or unsuitable for their job.

There are many different types of ladders in use at construction sites throughout the State. They include A-Frame ladders, step ladders, platform ladders, extension ladders with rubber or metal feet and rolling safety ladders. There are proper and recognized methods of use for each type of ladder. It is crucial that employees utilizing these types of ladders receive training on the proper methods of placement, set-up and use.

Even if a ladder is the proper safety device for a given task, the placement of a ladder at a construction site must be done with the safety of a worker at the forefront. The ground must be safe and level and the ladder cannot be placed in any area where the safety of the worker may be compromised. An accident resulting from a ladder being improperly placed may result in a finding of a Labor Law violation against the owner or the General Contractor based upon their failure to make sure that the workers at the construction site were able to perform their height-related job in a safe manner.

In addition to New York law, Federal rules have been enacted to guide construction workers and companies on the safest methods of performing construction using proper and accepted ladders. For example, OSHA specifies the proper height, width rung-size, placement and a host of other requirements in order for a construction worker to use a ladder safely.

Ladder accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be quite severe. The most common injuries suffered in ladder accidents include:

• Sprains and Strains: These are among the most common injuries, often resulting from slips, falls, or overexertion while using a ladder.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Falling from a ladder can lead to fractures or broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, wrists, and ankles.
• Head Injuries: If a person falls from a ladder and hits their head, it can lead to concussions or more serious traumatic brain injuries.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls from ladders can cause injuries to the back and spinal cord, which can result in long-term pain and mobility issues.
• Contusions and Bruises: Impact with the ladder or the ground can cause contusions and bruises, which can vary in severity.
• Cuts and Abrasions: Contact with the ladder's rungs, steps, or other parts can lead to cuts and abrasions.
• Dislocations: Awkward falls can sometimes result in joint dislocations, particularly in the shoulders and hips.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Torn ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues can occur during ladder accidents.
• Internal Injuries: Severe falls can lead to internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding.
• Nerve Injuries: Falls or awkward positions on a ladder can result in nerve compression or damage.
• Death: In the most severe cases, ladder accidents can be fatal.

Ladder accidents often occur due to factors such as improper ladder selection, defective equipment, lack of proper training, inadequate supervision, or failure to follow safety protocols.

• Seek medical attention: Your health is a top priority.
• Report the accident: Notify your supervisor or employer about the incident.
• Document the scene: If possible, take photos of the ladder, accident site, and your injuries.
• Gather witness information: Collect contact details of any witnesses present.
• Consult an attorney: Reach out to our experienced ladder accident lawyers to discuss your case.

Building owners, general contractors, manufacturers of defective equipment, and other responsible parties may be held liable for ladder accidents. New York Labor Laws often impose specific responsibilities on building owners and contractors to ensure worker safety.

Our ladder accident lawyers have a deep understanding of New York's construction laws. We can:

• Investigate the accident to determine liability.
• Gather evidence to support your claim.
• Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
• Represent you in court if a trial becomes necessary.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including current and future treatments.
• Lost wages and potential future earnings.
• Pain and suffering.
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs.
• Wrongful death benefits for families who lost a loved one in a ladder accident.

The statute of  limitations for filing  a personal injury lawsuit  in New York is generally three years from  the date of the accident. However, it's crucial to consult an attorney promptly to ensure your rights are protected.

No, we offer a free initial consultation. Our ladder accident lawyers will review your case, provide legal advice, and explain your options without any obligation.

Your immigration status should not prevent you from seeking compensation for your injuries. Our firm is committed to helping all injured workers, regardless of their immigration status.

Unfortunately, the dangers and risks associated with height-related work result in accidents where construction workers suffer extremely serious or catastrophic injuries involving foot and leg fractures, spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis, quadriplegia, paraplegia, traumatic brain injuries or death. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious personal injury or died as a result of a ladder accident, please contact our firm to discuss your case.The Personal Injury Attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf advocate for our clients' full financial recovery through detailed, meticulous preparation for trial.