New York Construction Accident Attorneys
We understand the dangers that construction workers face at jobsites and the horrific impact that catastrophic injuries have on injured workers and their families. While no amount of money can erase a catastrophic injury significant financial compensation can help you focus on maximum medical improvement.
Construction accident cases are often complex and may require proof of specific industrial code violations. The firm was founded in 1995. We have years of experience with respect to construction accident cases. Our goal of focusing on Labor Law 240(1) and 241(6) cases began while representing a worker that was injured when formwork near the 42nd floor of a SoHo hotel-condo complex collapsed during construction.
Our selective approach allows us to focus on helping clients secure maximum financial compensation while they focus on maximum medical improvement. We are experienced and compassionate New York Construction Accident Attorneys. Contact us today for a free case review. Call (800)410-1111 or connect with us online.
Ways New York Construction Accident Attorneys Can Help You
During a time when you need the strength to heal, insurance companies may pressure you to settle for less than your case is worth. If we accept your case, we will focus on securing maximum financial compensation for you while you focus on maximum medical improvement.
Our New York Construction Accident Attorneys can help you, for example, by standing between you and insurance companies that may pressure you to settle for less than your case is worth; Consulting with medical and construction accident expert witnesses; Investigating all causes of the accident and liable parties; Analyzing evidence of future care needs; Negotiating aggressively for a fair settlement or taking your case to court.
Does it Cost Money to Hire a New York Construction Accident Attorney?
Our New York Construction Accident Attorneys work on a contingency fee. In other words, our legal fee is a percentage of the financial compensation that we secure for clients. You pay nothing upfront and we get paid if we secure financial compensation for you, such as via verdict or settlement.
Can I Be Compensated for Damages Not Covered By Workers’ Compensation?
Yes, for example, if somebody other than your employer is liable for your catastrophic injuries, we can help you secure monetary compensation for damages such as the reduction of your earning potential, past and future pain and suffering and more.
What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Construction Accident Lawsuit in New York?
New York has a strict time limit known as the statute of limitations. For personal injury cases the time limit for filing a lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident. The time limit for wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of death. It is extremely important to contact a New York attorney immediately and/or as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.
How Much Money Is My New York Construction Accident Claim Worth?
Each case is unique. For example, if somebody other than your employer is liable for catastrophic injuries that prevent you from working again that will likely increase the value of your claim substantially.
What Types of Financial Compensation May I Claim After a New York Construction Accident?
Please see the Financial Compensation section of this website. Each case is unique. You may be entitled to, for example, compensation for damages such as the reduction of your earning potential, past and future pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical expenses, lost wages, loss of consortium, damages for the wrongful death of a loved one, punitive damages, out-of-pocket expenses, and damages as a result of a permanent disability.
Who Is Liable for Construction Accidents in New York?
Building owners and general contractors are generally responsible for maintaining a safe worksite. Others may be liable, depending upon the facts and circumstances of each case, applicable labor laws and/or specific industrial code violations. Labor Law Section 200 generally requires owners and contractors to provide reasonable protection to workers. Labor Section 240(1) known as the“Scaffold Law,” requires, for example, proper protection for workers engaged in labor involving height or gravity related risks such as workers using ladders, scaffolds, or elevated work areas.Labor Law Section 241(6) requires, for example, specific safety standards for construction, demolition, and excavation. Construction accident cases often require proof of specific industrial code violations
Can I sue after getting hurt on a construction site in NY?
Injured construction workers in New York generally can pursue a lawsuit in addition to workers’ compensation, if for example, somebody other than your employer is liable for violating New York Labor Law(s).
I was injured on a construction site in New York—what should I do right now?
Get medical care immediately, report the injury to your employer, document the scene, if possible and speak with a construction accident lawyer immediately and/or as soon as possible.
I fell at work today—what steps should I take?
See a qualified medical doctor and/or medical provider immediately, notify your employer, take photos and gather all evidence, if possible, and avoid statements without legal advice.
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Do I need to see a doctor after a construction accident?
Yes, serious injuries may not show or be felt right away. Medical treatment protects your health and creates critical documentation for your claim.​​
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Should I report my construction injury to my employer?
Yes. Prompt reporting helps preserve your rights.
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What mistakes should I avoid after a jobsite accident?
Do not delay treatment, minimize your injury, give recorded statements or sign documents for insurance companies or others, without legal advice or assume workers’ comp is your only option.
I’m in pain but kept working—did I mess up my case?
No. Many injuries worsen over time, and you may still have a valid claim.
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Do I have a case after a construction accident in New York?
Yes, if New York Labor Law(s) were violated and a third party, that is not your employer is liable for the accident, for example, you may be eligible to pursue a third-party case. ​​
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Is my employer responsible for my injury?
Your employer is generally responsible for having workers’ comp; other parties may be legally liable for your accident. Each case is unique and it depends on the individual facts and circumstances of your accident.
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Is this considered negligence?
If you were injured at your jobsite, because of improper safety equipment, for example, that may have been caused by another parties negligence.
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Does New York Labor Law apply to my accident?
Yes, it may if the injury occurred during construction, demolition, or renovation work, for example, and there were Labor Law violation(s).
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Does NY Labor Law 240 cover ladder and scaffold falls?
Yes. It generally applies to elevation-related falls at, for example, construction or demolition sites and there were Labor Law violation(s).
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Explain NY Labor Law 240 in simple terms
It generally requires owners and contractors to provide proper fall protection and/or safety equipment and generally holds them liable if there is a violation. Each case is unique. It depends on the facts and circumstances of your accident.
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Does Labor Law 240 apply if I fell from a ladder?
Often yes, such as if the ladder provided to you at a construction site was broken and/or improperly secured.
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What is strict liability under NY Labor Law?
Strict liability is where, for example, someone is held responsible for damages or harm caused by their actions and/or inactions without having to prove negligence in other ways. ​
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What’s the difference between Labor Law 240 and 241?
Labor Law 240 generally covers elevation hazards; Labor Law 241 generally covers general site safety violations.
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Can I still recover if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Partial fault generally does not bar recovery, in Labor Law cases.
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What is my New York construction accident case worth?
It generally depends on, for example, injury severity, liability, coverage, medical costs, lost income, and long-term impact and/or permanency.
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How much do construction accident cases usually settle for?
Amounts vary widely, from thousands to millions, based on the facts and circumstances of each unique case.
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What compensation can I get besides workers’ comp?
You may be able to recover pain and suffering, full lost wages, and future damages, for example, if there were Labor Law violations.
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Can I get paid for lost wages and future medical care?
Yes, you may be entitled to full lost wages and future medical care, such as via a third-party Labor Law claim.
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What affects settlement value in a NY construction accident?
Injury severity, liability, coverage, medical proof, and future disability are some examples.
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What’s the difference between workers’ comp and suing?
Workers’ comp generally provides limited benefits; NY personal injury lawsuits generally allow compensation such as damages for pain and suffering.
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Can I get workers’ comp and still sue in New York?
Yes. Depending on the facts and circumstances of each unique case, you may be able to pursue both at the same time.
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Does workers’ comp cover pain and suffering?
No. Pain and suffering is generally available through a lawsuit and/or pre-lawsuit claim, for example, as a result of Labor Law violations.
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Who pays my medical bills after a construction injury?
Workers’ comp generally pays first.
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What happens if workers’ comp denies my claim?
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You may be able to appeal the denial and/or pursue legal action, such as a result of Labor Law violations.
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Can my employer fire me for reporting an injury?
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No. Retaliation is illegal under New York law.
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What if my employer says the accident was my fault?
That does not automatically defeat your claim.
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Should I talk to my boss or the insurance company?
Report the injury, but avoid statements and communications with insurance companies without legal advice.
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What if my employer didn’t have safety equipment?
That may strongly support a Labor Law claim.
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What if I’m undocumented—do I still have rights?
Yes. Undocumented workers are generally protected under New York law.
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What evidence do I need for a construction accident case?
Medical records, photos and witness statements, for example, may help prove your case.
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Should I take photos after a construction accident?
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Yes if you are able to do that safely. Photos of the accident site and anything involved in the accident can be important evidence.
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Do witness statements matter?
Yes. Independent witnesses, for example, can strengthen your claim.
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What if there was no accident report?
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You still may be able to file a claim.
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Can OSHA reports help my case?
Yes. OSHA violations may help support liability claims.
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How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in NY?
New York has a strict time limit known as the statute of limitations. For personal injury cases the time limit for filing a lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident. The time limit for wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of death. It is extremely important to contact a New York attorney immediately and/or as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.
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Is there a deadline for Labor Law 240 cases?
Yes. See the answer above. For personal injury cases the time limit for filing a lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident. The time limit for wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of death.
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How long does a construction accident case usually take?
It can take months to several years depending on the facts and circumstances of each case.
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What happens if I wait too long?
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If you miss the statute of limitations deadlines you will usually be unable to commence a lawsuit with respect to your accident.
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What should I do after a construction accident in New York?
Get qualified medical care immediately, report the injury to your employer, document everything, and contact a lawyer immediately and/or as soon as possible.
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I got hurt at work today—what do I do?
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Get qualified medical care immediately, report the injury to your employer, document everything, and contact a lawyer immediately and/or as soon as possible.
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What should I do if I fell off a ladder at work?
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Get qualified medical care immediately, report the injury to your employer, document everything, and contact a lawyer immediately and/or as soon as possible.
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Do I need to see a doctor after a work injury?
Yes. Seek qualified medical attention immediately.
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Should I report a construction accident to my boss?
Yes. Report the accident to your employer and/or supervisor immediately and/or as soon as possible.
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What are my rights after getting hurt on a construction site?
You may be entitled to, for example, compensation for damages such as the reduction of your earning potential, past and future pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical expenses, lost wages, loss of consortium, damages for the wrongful death of a loved one, punitive damages, out-of-pocket expenses, and damages as a result of a permanent disability.
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Is my employer responsible for my construction injury?
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Your employer and/or other parties may be responsible and/or liable.
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Who is liable for a construction accident in New York?
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Owners, contractors, and other third-parties may be liable. Each case is unique.
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Is it illegal not to provide safety equipment in New York?
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Yes. Depending on the facts and circumstance of each case the failure to provide safety equipment may be a violation of New York Labor Laws.
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What is New York Labor Law two forty?
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Labor Law 240(1) is a law that protects certain workers from, for example, height-related hazards.
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Does Labor Law 240 cover ladder falls?
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Yes, in many cases.
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Is a scaffold fall strict liability in New York?
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Often yes, for example, if proper safety devices were required and not provided.
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What’s the difference between Labor Law two forty and two forty one?
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Labor Law 240(1) for example covers elevation risks; Labor Law 241(6) for example covers general construction safety.
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How much is a construction accident case worth in New York?
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It depends on, for example, severity of the injuries, liability, coverage and long-term impact. Amounts vary widely, from thousands to millions, based on the facts and circumstances of each unique case.
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What do construction accident cases usually settle for?
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Settlement amounts vary widely based on each unique case.
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Can I get paid for lost wages after a construction injury?
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Yes, through workers’ comp and possibly a lawsuit, depending on the facts and circumstances of your case.
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Does workers’ comp pay for pain and suffering?
No. Damages for pain and suffering generally require a lawsuit.
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Can I get workers’ comp and still sue in New York?
Yes. Both are allowed, depending on the facts and circumstances of your accident case.
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What’s the difference between workers’ comp and a lawsuit?
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Workers’ comp is limited; lawsuits generally allow various types of damages, depending on the facts and circumstances of each case.
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Who pays my medical bills after a work injury?
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Workers’ comp generally pays first.
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What happens if workers’ comp denies my claim?
You may be able to appeal and/or pursue various other legal remedies.
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Can my employer fire me for reporting an injury?
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No. That is generally considered illegal retaliation.
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What if my boss says the accident was my fault?
Your bosses allegations of fault does not automatically bar your claim.
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Should I talk to the insurance company?
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Not without legal guidance.
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What if I’m undocumented and got hurt at work?
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You still have legal rights.
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Find a construction accident lawyer near me
Contact our compassionate construction accident attorneys today for a free case review. Call (800)410-1111 or connect with us online.
Experienced New York construction accident lawyers offering free consultations
Contact our compassionate construction accident attorneys today for a free case review. Call (800)410-1111 or connect with us online.
Attorneys with strong Labor Law experience and results
Contact our compassionate construction accident attorneys today for a free case review. Call (800)410-1111 or connect with us online.
Construction injury lawyer near me free consultation
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Contact our compassionate construction accident attorneys today for a free case review. Call (800)410-1111 or connect with us online.
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What Causes Construction Accidents?
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Here are some examples:
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Struck By Falling Objects
An ironworker struck by improperly secured heavy construction materials that fell several feet.
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Electrical Accidents
An electrician that was electrocuted because safety equipment wasn’t readily available or the safety equipment provided did not meet the proper rating class.
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Fall Related Accidents
A welder that fell from an elevated work area because of unprotected sides, wall openings or an unsecured scaffold or ladder.
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Heavy Equipment Vehicles
A concrete worker that was hit by another trades bulldozer because the vehicle was improperly operated or maintained.
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Trenching and Excavation
A construction worker that was struck by debris during a cave-in as a result of improper supports or no safe exit from a trench.
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Ladders
An electrician that fell from a ladder because the ladder was not properly secured, inspected, maintained or rungs were missing.
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Scaffolding
An carpenter that fell because a scaffold was not properly secured, inspected, maintained, constructed, or guardrails were not at a proper height.
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Demolition Accidents
A construction worker that was struck by debris, electrocuted or burned because an engineering survey failed to include the risk of an unplanned collapse, utilities weren’t properly secured or fire evacuation or prevention plans weren’t established prior to demolition.
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Exposure to Toxic Materials
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An industrial painter that was exposed over an extended period of time to asbestos or hazardous chemicals during renovations at an old factory.
Improper Protective Equipment
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An ironworker that fell several feet because proper anchoring was not not readily available.
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What are Examples of Construction Accident Injuries?
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Crush injuries from collapsing trenches or heavy falling objects can cause catastrophic injuries. Paralysis sometimes occurs when the spine is damaged after falling from a ladder or scaffold. Traumatic brain injuries, bleeding in the brain, seizures, infection, and permanent neurological problems sometimes occur because improperly secured building materials fell on a worker. Other examples include asbestos-related diseases, electrocutions, wrongful death, and catastrophic burn injuries.
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Do Workers in the Building Trades Face Safety Risks at Construction Sites?
Yes, workers affiliated with the following unions sometimes face safety risks at their job sites, for example: Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA); Local 79, Local 78, Local 147, Local 731, Local 1010, Local 12A NYC District Council of Carpenters (NYCDCC);Local 157, Local 45, Local 926, Local 740, Local 2790 Iron Workers; Local 40, Local 361, Local 580, Local 46, Local 197 Plasterers & Cement Masons (OPCMIA); Local 262, Local 780 Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers (BAC); Local 1 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW); Local 3, Local 25 Plumbers, Pipefitters, Steamfitters; Plumbers Local 1, Local 200, Steamfitters Local 638 Sheet Metal Workers (SMART); Local 28 Operating Engineers (IUOE); Local 14, Local 15, Local 138, 138A, 138B & 138C Elevator Constructors (IUEC); Local 1 Painters & Allied Trades (IUPAT DC9); Local 806, Local 1087, Local 1281 Road, Asphalt & Heavy/Highway Workers; Local 1010, Local 138 Teamsters ;Local 282, Local 813, Local 553 Boilermakers; Local 5 Roofers & Waterproofers; Local 8 Asbestos & Hazardous Material Workers; Local 78
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What to Do After a Construction Accident in New York?
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Get medical attention from a competent medical professional immediately. Report the accident to your employer right away. Secure, videos and photographs of the site, structure, equipment, devices, machinery, vehicles and anything else related to the accident, and any witness information, as soon as possible. Do not provide statements and do not communicate with insurance adjusters or representatives before consulting with a New York Construction Accident Attorney. Don’t sign anything such as insurance forms, releases, or statements until you’ve consulted with a New York Construction Accident Attorney. Keep all of your own gear, tools, clothing and other items that were involved in the accident, documents such as medical records, bills, accident reports and all information related to the accident. Consult a Construction Accident Attorney immediately and/or as soon as possible, to protect your rights. Do not post, for example, photos, videos, or anything about your accident or injuries on social media or other communication devices and/or applications. Follow your medical providers’ instructions with respect to your medical care and maximum medical improvement.