Construction scaffolding accidents in NY

Construction scaffold accidents represent a constant concern in the construction industry in New York. These temporary structures, although essential for carrying out building projects, can also be dangerous if not handled properly. 

Usually, this type of accident causes severe injuries that can even endanger the victim’s life and generate high health and recovery expenses. But what are the rights of a victim of a construction scaffold accident in NY?

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about it so that you can know how to act in case of suffering an accident of this type, without losing the opportunity to assert your rights and receive the compensation that you deserve by law.

Remember that if you need legal advice to face a labor case in NY, at Nonna Shikh Law, we are ready to provide you with all the legal assistance you need. Call us now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation so that we can evaluate your case today.

 

Check also: Steps to take after complex construction accidents

 

What damages can a construction scaffold accident cause to a worker?

The damages that a construction scaffold accident can cause to a worker are many, so we cannot just limit ourselves to mentioning physical injuries. This type of event can significantly affect a worker’s life in different aspects.

Some of the most common damages that a construction scaffold accident can cause to a worker are:

Severe physical injuries

Scaffold accidents can result in falls from significant heights, which can cause bone fractures, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, and severe injuries in general. These injuries can have a lasting impact on the worker’s health and quality of life.

Musculoskeletal system injuries

The handling of heavy materials, sudden movements, and uncomfortable postures on scaffolds can lead to injuries in muscles, tendons, and joints. This includes sprains, strains, back injuries, and cumulative wear and tear on joints.

Psychological trauma

Scaffold accidents can also have a significant emotional and psychological impact on workers. Fear, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress can result from traumatic experiences, especially if a co-worker is seriously injured or dies in the accident.

Loss of income and work capacity

Injuries suffered in a scaffold accident may require prolonged recovery time, which implies absence from work and loss of income. Additionally, depending on the severity of the injuries, the worker may face a permanent reduction in their ability to work and earn a living.

Medical and rehabilitation costs

Medical expenses associated with the treatment of severe scaffold construction injuries can be significant. This includes emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, physical and occupational therapy, medications, and other necessary treatments for the worker’s rehabilitation.

What are the rights of a worker who suffers an accident on construction scaffolding in NY?

When a worker suffers a construction scaffold accident in New York, they have a series of rights and legal protections. Here are some of the most important rights that workers have in this situation:

1. Workers’ compensation: Injured workers in a scaffold accident have the right to receive workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical expenses related to the injury, reimbursement of lost wages due to temporary or permanent disability to work, and necessary physical rehabilitation.
2. Right to medical attention: An injured worker has the right to receive adequate and timely medical attention to treat their injuries. This includes coverage of necessary medical expenses for their recovery, such as medical consultations, surgeries, medications, and therapies.
3. Right to safety in the workplace: Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe and hazard-free work environment. Workers have the right to work on properly installed, inspected, and maintained scaffolds, with adequate safety equipment, appropriate training, and safety measures in place.
4. Right to file a personal injury lawsuit: In some cases, when a construction scaffold accident is caused by the negligence of a third party (such as a contractor, supplier, or manufacturer of defective scaffolds), the injured worker may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek additional compensation for damages.
5. Right to non-retaliation: Workers have the right not to face retaliation from their employers for filing a workers’ compensation claim or seeking legal action for the accident. Any attempt at retaliation is prohibited and may give rise to additional legal action.

It is important to note that these rights may vary depending on the specific circumstances and applicable laws in New York. In case of a construction scaffold accident, it is recommended to seek legal assistance to know each of the rights that apply to the case, according to the characteristics and needs of the victim.

Why is legal support from accident lawyers important?

Legal support from accident lawyers is crucial to ensure that the rights of injured workers are protected and that they receive adequate compensation for their injuries. Accident lawyers have specialized knowledge in labor and accident laws, objectively evaluating each case and providing expert legal representation.

At Nonna Shikh Law, we understand the importance of fighting for the rights of workers affected by accidents. Our team of dedicated lawyers is committed to providing solid legal advice and efficient representation to obtain the compensation our clients deserve. Contact us now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation.

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FAQs

What safety measures should be implemented to prevent scaffold accidents?

To prevent scaffold accidents, it is crucial to implement adequate safety measures. Some of these measures include regular inspections of scaffolds, ensuring proper installation and dismantling, providing personal protective equipment (such as harnesses and helmets), ensuring adequate training for workers, maintaining a safe workload on scaffolds, and ensuring constant supervision during work at heights.

In addition, it is important to follow the safety regulations and standards established by competent authorities and promote a culture of safety in the workplace, where open communication is encouraged and workers are encouraged to report any risk or concern.

What responsibilities do employers have regarding scaffold safety and worker protection?

Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure scaffold safety and protect their workers. This includes providing adequate and safe scaffolds, regularly inspecting their condition, ensuring proper installation and dismantling, providing adequate training on scaffold use, supplying personal protective equipment, and maintaining a safe working environment overall.

Employers must also comply with safety regulations and standards established by competent authorities, implement effective safety policies, conduct risk assessments, and provide adequate supervision to prevent accidents and protect the health and well-being of workers on construction scaffolds.

What evidence is important to collect after a construction scaffold accident?

After a construction scaffold accident, it is important to collect relevant evidence to support any claims or legal action. Some key elements include photographs or videos of the accident site, incident report records, testimony from eyewitnesses, detailed medical reports on the injuries suffered, training records and safety certifications, scaffolding maintenance records, and any other documentation related to the incident.

All this evidence can be easily collected with appropriate legal assistance. At Nonna Shikh Law, we are ready to provide you with all the advice you need to assert your rights as a victim of a construction scaffold accident. Call us now at 718-295-4000 and let us fight for your rights.