Construction workers in the Bronx should be able to expect that when they take necessary precautions at work, they will be safe from severe bodily injury or death. However, the construction industry is known for its risks, serious injuries, and catastrophic accidents. Whether you are critically injured in a ladder accident, forklift accident, or any other type of construction accident, you may have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim or seek damages through a personal injury lawsuit to ensure liable parties are held accountable.
Injured construction workers have the right to demand justice. Do not hesitate to contact an experienced Bronx ladder accident lawyer at Jesse Minc Personal Injury Law for a free consultation to learn more about how much you could recover, what your next steps should be, and what to expect from the workers’ compensation and personal injury claims processes.
State and Federal Rules on Ladder Use
Your construction accident lawyer should be well-versed in state and federal laws regarding ladder safety. Whether you suffer severe brain damage or spinal cord injuries or are otherwise stuck with expensive medical bills, our Bronx ladder accident lawyers are here to ensure construction companies and other liable parties are held accountable for violating rules and regulations regarding ladder use.
In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has several regulations in place that describe safety responsibilities involving:
- Alterations
- Construction
- Decorating and painting
- Construction site demolition
- Ladder fall protection systems
New York Ladder Laws
New York ladder laws include specific rules and regulations that determine when construction sites should use certain types of ladders, scaffolds, and fall protection systems. New York labor law allows victims to pursue workers’ compensation claims after a work-related ladder accident, but victims may also be entitled to compensation through third-party lawsuits or personal injury cases.
Some of the most notable Bronx ladder restrictions and regulations cover:
- Ladder use and installation
- Ladder strength
- Use of metal ladders
- Ladder requirements
- Types of ladders that are prohibited
- Ladder supports
- Ladder splicing
- Ladder maintenance and replacement
- Opaque protective coatings
Compensation After a Ladder Accident in the Bronx
Construction workers have the right to compensation when parties violate the federal and state agencies’ rules surrounding ladder usage and safety. There are several ways New York injury victims can recover compensation and access the medical treatment they need.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
You may be entitled to workers’ compensation if you are injured in an on-the-job accident. Your ladder accident lawyer can review the circumstances of your case to ensure you receive compensation for your lost wages, medical bills, vocational rehabilitation benefits, and related losses.
You may be able to recover benefits you did not think were possible when general contractors, property owners, and other at-fault parties failed to ensure proper safety device use, install protection systems, or follow occupational safety rules and regulations.
Pursuing a Third-Party Lawsuit
You can pursue compensation from an at-fault third party by filing a personal injury lawsuit. Examples of potentially recoverable damages could include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
- Medical bills
- Diminished quality of life
- Loss of household services
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Disfigurement and skin scarring
Whether you are a Bronx native or were injured in another type of ladder fall across New York, the team at Jesse Minc Personal Injury Law is here to help you navigate the claims process and get the most out of your case.
Bronx Ladder Accident FAQ
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding construction and ladder accident claims in the Bronx.
Who Is At Fault if the Ladder Collapses?
If a ladder collapses, multiple parties could share the blame for your injuries. Ladder manufacturers, construction workers, contractors, the construction company, and other third parties may share liability depending on what caused the ladder to collapse. Failure to make necessary safety repairs, purchase high-quality ladders, or build ladders using high-quality parts could be considered negligence.
Should I Go to the ER if I Fell Off a Ladder?
You should absolutely go to the emergency room or call for medical attention if you fall off a ladder. This is especially true if you were injured at a construction site. Even if you initially feel fine, you may be dealing with invisible injuries that could worsen and become life-threatening if left untreated.
How Many People Die From Falling Off of Ladders?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 300 people die annually from falling off ladders.
What Is the Root Cause of Ladder Accidents?
The root cause of ladder accidents can vary on a case-by-case basis. Sometimes, ladder manufacturers do not properly build ladders or there is an inherent design flaw. Other times, accidents occur due to ladders that have worn down or need repairs. Your Bronx ladder accident attorney will carefully evaluate the circumstances of your case to figure out the cause of your ladder accident so we can ensure liable parties are held accountable.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Slip and Fall in NYC?
There are several statutes of limitations you should be aware of if you were injured in a slip and fall or ladder accident. If you are seeking workers’ compensation benefits, you generally need to notify your employer of your injuries and intent to seek workers’ comp within 30 days. Then, you have up to two years from the date of your ladder accident to file your workers’ comp claim.
However, if you are seeking damages through a personal injury lawsuit, you have up to three years from the ladder accident date to file. If you do not file your lawsuit before these deadlines, you may be prohibited from moving forward with your case.
What Is the Slip and Fall Law in NY?
According to New York Labor Law 240, construction workers have additional protections if they are injured in a slip and fall or ladder accident. If contractors and construction site property owners do not take necessary safety measures to prevent falls, they can be held liable for the injuries their construction workers endure.
What Is the Premises Liability Law in New York State?
According to New York State premises liability laws, all property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are safe for invited guests and patrons. When they do not make necessary repairs or warn guests of potential safety hazards, they can be sued for the victim’s damages.
Get Help From a Bronx Ladder Accident Lawyer Today
When you have suffered severe injuries in a ladder or construction accident, you do not need to go through it alone. With help from an experienced ladder accident lawyer in the Bronx, you can demand financial compensation.
Our team at Jesse Minc Personal Injury Law is here to help you hold the at-fault parties accountable and recover your costs so you can move forward with your life. When you are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve, contact our team for a 100% free consultation. You can reach us through our quick contact form or by phone to get started today.
