scaffold accident lawyers new york

If you were injured in a scaffold accident on a New York City construction site, the last thing you should worry about is fighting for fair compensation. Your focus should be on healing, not deciphering legal terms or facing off against insurance companies.

Unfortunately, many injured workers find themselves stuck in limbo—unable to work, financially strapped by missed work and medical bills, and unsure where to turn.

At The Perecman Firm, our NYC scaffold accident lawyers may be able to help you. We are relentless advocates for injured construction workers across all five boroughs. From the high-rises of Manhattan to the renovation sites in Brooklyn, we’ve spent more than 40 years standing up for those harmed on New York construction sites.

Whether you fell from a scaffold, were struck by falling debris, or were hurt due to faulty equipment, we know what it takes to win, and we do whatever it takes to secure the maximum compensation the law allows.

Why NYC Construction Workers Trust The Perecman Firm

When your health, livelihood, and future are on the line, you deserve more than a lawyer who just files

paperwork or chases quick settlements. You need a dedicated legal team with deep roots in New York’s labor laws and a relentless commitment to pursuing the best possible outcome for your case. Here's how we do it:

We’ve recovered nearly a billion dollars for injured New Yorkers

Case results matter. Our firm has secured hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements, including multi-million-dollar outcomes for scaffold collapse victims. When others settle early, we keep pushing until we get every dollar you're owed.

We helped shape New York’s construction labor laws

We’ve handled landmark construction injury cases that influenced state labor laws. Our work has helped extend greater protections for workers injured in scaffold-related accidents, and we continue to fight for stronger safety enforcement every day.

We treat our clients like family

At The Perecman Firm, you’re not just a case number. We handle every detail so you can focus on recovery. Our New York City scaffold accident lawyers work directly with you and your loved ones, offering guidance at every step and fighting fiercely on your behalf.

We have the resources to go the distance

From safety engineers to medical experts, we build ironclad cases backed by data and expert testimony. Whether it’s negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial, we have the experience and tools to stand up to any insurance company.

Key Takeaways

• Scaffold accidents are among the most dangerous incidents on New York construction sites.
• Falls from height, equipment failures, and lack of safety gear are common causes of injury.
• Labor Law § 240 (the Scaffold Law) provides powerful legal protection to workers in NYC.
• Multiple parties can be held accountable, including contractors, site owners, and equipment manufacturers.
• Both workers' compensation and personal injury lawsuits may be available after a scaffold incident.
• New York imposes strict deadlines for filing injury claims—delaying can cost you your rights.
• The Perecman Firm has recovered millions for scaffold accident victims and can help you pursue maximum compensation.

The Dangers of Working on NYC Scaffolds

New York City’s construction workers are no strangers to risk. From the steel skeletons rising along Hudson Yards to the brownstone restorations in Harlem, scaffolds are a daily fixture. But when those platforms aren’t properly secured, inspected, or maintained, the results can be catastrophic.

Falls from scaffolds, collapses, and falling debris can result in spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, fractures, amputations, and even death. In a city like New York, where over 300,000 construction workers are active, these preventable accidents are far too common.

Scaffold-related injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. Many victims never return to their previous line of work. That’s why New York has some of the strongest construction safety laws in the nation—and why you need a legal team that knows how to use them to your advantage.

Your Rights Under New York Labor Law § 240

Also known as the “Scaffold Law,” Labor Law § 240 is one of the country's most powerful worker protection statutes. It holds property owners and general contractors strictly liable when construction workers are injured due to gravity-related accidents, such as falling from a scaffold or being struck by falling objects.

If you’re working at height and the proper safety equipment wasn’t provided, or if the scaffolding failed due to poor construction, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit, regardless of your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance.

Here’s what the law requires:

• Proper construction and maintenance of scaffolds to prevent collapse
• Guardrails at least 34 inches high for scaffolds over 20 feet
• Safety harnesses, lifelines, and other fall protection equipment
• Secure anchoring and fastening to prevent swaying or tipping

In addition to § 240, Labor Law § 241(6) and § 200 also provide critical protections. These laws cover everything from adequate lighting and ventilation to safe use of equipment, and violations can form the basis of a strong injury claim.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Scaffold Accident?

Scaffold accident cases are rarely straightforward. Multiple parties may share responsibility; identifying them is key to building a successful case. Depending on the situation, liable parties may include:

• The construction company or general contractor that failed to enforce safety measures
• The subcontractor who improperly assembled or maintained the scaffold
• The property owner for hazardous site conditions
• The scaffold manufacturer for producing defective components
• Third-party vendors or site managers who contributed to unsafe working conditions

Our NYC construction accident attorneys conduct a thorough investigation into every aspect of the accident, reviewing blueprints, safety logs, witness statements, and surveillance footage. We’ll identify every liable party and aggressively pursue compensation from all available sources.

Workers’ Comp vs. Personal Injury Lawsuits

If you’ve been injured on a New York construction site, workers’ compensation benefits are typically your first line of financial support. These benefits cover:

• Immediate medical attention and all related treatment
• Partial wage replacement during your recovery
• Permanent disability compensation
• Vocational rehabilitation, if you can’t return to your old job

However, workers’ comp doesn’t cover pain and suffering, loss of future earnings, or the full impact of your trauma. That’s where a personal injury claim can help you. 

If a third party’s negligence contributed to your injuries—a negligent contractor, a faulty scaffold design, or a lack of safety equipment on a jobsite—you may be entitled to additional damages beyond what workers’ comp provides.

Our NYC scaffold accident lawyers will assess every angle of your situation and help you file both types of claims if eligible.

Common Causes of Scaffolding Accidents in New York City

Scaffolding incidents are not random. They often result from clear safety violations or poor planning. Based on decades of legal experience and OSHA data, some of the most frequent causes include:

• Improperly constructed scaffold structures
• Weak or defective materials that buckle under weight
• Absence of safety equipment like harnesses and guardrails
• Inadequate training on scaffold use
• Failure to inspect scaffolds regularly
• Unsafe weather conditions ignored by supervisors
• Tools and debris left unsecured at height

From scaffold collapses in the Financial District to falls from heights in Midtown, we know how construction companies cut corners, ignore critical safety regulations, and put workers at risk, and we know how to hold them accountable when they do.

Injuries Resulting From Scaffolding Falls and Collapses

Scaffold accidents often leave victims with life-altering harm. Surviving a scaffolding fall can mean facing more than just physical trauma—it frequently leads to prolonged hospital stays, multiple surgeries, and a long, uncertain recovery. These aren’t minor injuries that resolve in a few weeks. Some individuals never fully heal, and the impact can last a lifetime.

Injuries may include:

• Head injuries—particularly traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Amputations
• Crushed limbs and internal organ damage
• Severe fractures and dislocations
• Nerve damage and herniated discs
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD

These injuries affect your health and jeopardize your livelihood. If you can’t return to work, your entire family’s financial stability is at risk. That’s why our NYC scaffold accident lawyers fight for full, fair compensation for your bills today and for tomorrow’s expenses as well.

What to Do After a Scaffold Accident in NYC

If you’ve already received emergency medical treatment or are currently undergoing care for your injuries, that’s an important first step—and one that not only protects your health but also strengthens your legal claim. 

If you haven’t seen a doctor yet, it’s critical to do so immediately. Even if you feel “fine,” injuries from scaffold accidents, such as concussions and other brain injuries, slipped discs, and internal bleeding, may not be noticeable for hours or days after the accident. Also, delaying medical attention can raise red flags with insurance companies and jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.

Once you’ve begun medical treatment, there are other steps you should take to protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving full compensation:

• Hire a lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced scaffold accident attorney will protect your rights, preserve evidence, and handle all communications with insurers and other parties from day one.
• Keep all medical appointments and follow your treatment plan. Gaps in care or missed follow-ups can be used against you. Consistent treatment shows the seriousness of your injuries and your commitment to recovery.
• Start a journal or record video entries about your recovery. Describe your daily pain levels, physical limitations, emotional struggles, and the impact on your life. These firsthand accounts can provide evidence of what you’ve endured.
• Gather and save all documentation. This includes medical records, prescriptions, pay stubs, accident reports, and receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury.
• Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal advice. Their goal is to minimize payouts, including for legitimate personal injury claims. Your lawyer will handle all communications with insurers on your behalf. 
• Photograph the accident scene and your injuries. If you’re able, take pictures of the scaffold, surrounding conditions, and any safety gear, or lack thereof. Visual evidence can be crucial in proving negligence. If you hire a lawyer immediately, they can arrange to secure evidence from the accident scene for you.

You’ve been through enough. Don’t let a legal misstep cost you the compensation you deserve. With the right team in your corner, you can focus on healing while we handle the rest. Reach out today so we can begin building your case and holding the responsible parties accountable.

How Long Do You Have to File a Scaffold Accident Claim?

The legal world runs on deadlines. In New York, the statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit is typically three years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, your claim may be dismissed.

For workers’ compensation, you must:

• Notify your employer within 30 days of the accident
• File a formal claim with the Workers' Compensation Board within two years

However, different rules may apply in cases involving municipal employers, public projects, or wrongful death claims. That’s why it’s important to speak with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible.

Real Results for Injured Construction Workers

At The Perecman Firm, our track record speaks for itself. We’ve helped scaffold accident victims win substantial compensation, including:

• $11.89 million for a union worker injured in a suspension scaffold fall
• $10 million for a laborer who fell seven stories after the ropes snapped
• $9.8 million for a client hurt in a rolling scaffold collapse
• $3.6 million for a drywall worker who fell from a scaffold
• $2.88 million jury verdict for a mason injured in a scaffold fall

These are more than just numbers. They represent real people, real families, and real futures protected by our work. You can explore more of our proven results here.

FAQs About Scaffold Accident Cases in NYC

Can I file a lawsuit if I was partly at fault?

Yes. Under New York’s comparative fault rule, you may still recover compensation even if you share some responsibility, though your total recovery may be reduced. A lawyer can assess the facts and determine how liability may affect your claim.

What if I was working off the books?

Even undocumented workers or those paid in cash may have legal rights after a scaffold injury. Labor protections and workers’ compensation in New York often extend to all construction workers, regardless of immigration status or payment method.

How much does it cost to hire your law firm?

There are no upfront costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win your case. Your consultation is 100% free.

What if the scaffold collapse happened on a city-owned building?

Claims against city agencies or public authorities involve different rules, including shorter filing deadlines and the need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. Don’t wait. Call us immediately to protect your rights.

Call the NYC Scaffold Accident Lawyers For a Free Consultation

Scaffold accidents change lives in an instant. One misstep, one loose railing, one overlooked inspection, and suddenly your health, your job, and your family’s future are all at risk. You deserve a legal team that understands what you’re up against. 

At The Perecman Firm, we don’t treat you like a file number. We see your injuries, hear your story, and make it our mission to secure the financial recovery you need. With over 40 years of experience and nearly a billion dollars recovered, our construction injury attorneys know what it takes to get results.

Our award-winning attorneys serve clients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island, and across Long Island. Let us shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.

Ready to claim the compensation you deserve? Contact us now or call us at (212) 977-7033. Our NYC scaffold accident lawyers are standing by, ready to help.

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