Were you or a loved one hurt on a construction site in New York City? If so, Don’t let mounting medical bills and lost wages overwhelm you. You have rights & options. At HKD, our highly experienced NYC construction accident attorneys have the skill and record to recover the compensation you deserve. We’ve successfully secured over $825 million, including a $20 million verdict for an injured NYC construction worker. Let us maximize your construction accident claim and hold the negligent parties accountable.
Free Case Evaluations | Zero Cost Upfront | Over $825 Million Won! | Here to Listen, Ready to Fight.
Why Choose Our Top-Rated NYC Construction Accident Attorneys
At Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., our injury attorneys understand the life-altering consequences of construction accidents and are dedicated to helping injured workers and their families. So whether you were slipped and fell on a job site in Hudson Yards or you were injured on a construction site in Midtown Manhattan, our attorneys can help. Although our office is located in Midtown, just steps from Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Grand Central Terminal, we serve injured construction workers across all five boroughs—including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and throughout Manhattan.
We’re Leaders in New York Construction & Labor Law
Our partners, including Jordan Hecht, Judd Kleeger, and Jonathan Damashek, are recognized leaders in construction accident litigation in New York. From securing multimillion-dollar settlements to holding negligent parties accountable under New York Labor Laws, our construction accident law firm’s courtroom expertise and dedication ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients.
What Sets Our Construction Accident Attorneys Apart
Our Clients Come First – Our construction injury lawyers provide personalized legal strategies tailored to your needs, guiding you with compassion and transparency every step of the way.
Award-Winning Advocacy—Recognized by Super Lawyers and Lawyers of Distinction, Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C. is committed to excellence in personal injury and construction accident litigation. 7 attorneys at our law firm have been recognized by Super Lawyers as being amongst the top-rated personal injury lawyers in New York, New York. Our law firm has also been recognized by Best Lawyers as being amongst the top-rated mass tort/class action litigation law firms nationally, as well as one of the top-rated personal injury plaintiff law firms in New York. Multiple attorneys at our law firm have also been recognized in the top-100 jury verdicts in New York in 2023 .
A Winning Record & Construction Law Experience – With over $825 million recovered, our results demonstrate our ability to deliver justice. We leverage our deep knowledge of New York Labor Laws to hold general contractors and property owners accountable. This ensures you receive maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
No Upfront Fees – Enjoy a free consultation and pay nothing unless we win your case, making expert legal representation accessible to everyone.
Our Proven Track Record for Injured Construction Workers
With over $825 million recovered for injury victims throughout New York, our team of construction accident lawyers have secured numerous notable settlements and verdicts:
$20,000,000 – For a construction worker who was injured after being struck by a falling beam. The client suffered fractures in his neck that required multiple surgeries, a fractured jaw and a traumatic brain injury.
$11,000,000 – For a construction worker who was injured after falling into an unguarded opening. The client suffered serious injuries to his knee requiring four surgeries as well as spinal injuries that also required surgery.
$9,000,050 – Amputation, neck, back, knee and shoulder injuries for workers struck by a cement block while they were working on the exterior scaffold of a building in the Bronx.
$7,900,000 – Serious spinal injuries after a collapsed scaffold. The injured construction workers were members of Local 79 and Local 235.
$7,250,000 – For brain and neck injuries after a construction worker fell from an unsafe scaffold.
$6,000,000 – For shoulder and spinal injuries after a building roof collapsed on a carpenter.
$4,850,000 – For neck and back injuries suffered by a union driller after a trip and fall on an unguarded elevated work platform while working on the World Trade Center Transit Hub.
$4,800,000 – For a fractured vertebrae suffered by a drill runner working in a trench when a large piece of debris fell from the edge of the trench striking him in the back.
$4,650,000 – For spinal injuries suffered by a union Mason while working on the construction of a new school in Brooklyn when he fell five feet from a steel beam installed just above the roof surface.
How We Help After A Construction Accident
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Learn how we can help recover compensation after a construction accident in New York.
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Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek has a specialty in construction accidents. ... We have a proven track record in obtaining both high settlements and high verdicts relating to construction accidents.
These numbers underscore the critical importance of safety measures and the need for experienced legal representation when accidents occur.
Common New York City Construction Accidents
Employers are responsible for maintaining safe conditions on NY construction sites, but when negligence occurs, accidents can lead to devastating injuries or fatalities. Below are the most common types of construction accidents that occur in NYC as well as construction accidents that our attorneys have experience handling:
Window Washing Accidents
Window washers in NYC frequently work on skyscrapers and high-rise buildings, often using suspended scaffolds. Accidents occur when safety harnesses fail, equipment malfunctions, or weather conditions make surfaces slippery. These incidents can lead to falls from significant heights, causing catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Hoists are essential for transporting materials and workers on NYC construction sites, especially for high-rise projects. Accidents can happen when hoists are overloaded, improperly maintained, or operated negligently. Such failures often result in serious injuries from falling loads or worker entrapment.
Structural failures, often due to rushed timelines or negligent construction practices, pose a significant risk in NYC. Building collapses can occur during demolition or construction phases, trapping workers under debris and leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
Workers in NYC are frequently injured when they become trapped between heavy machinery, building materials, or walls. Common during excavation or trenching projects, these incidents can lead to crush injuries, amputations, or even death.
Concrete is commonly used in NYC construction, and prolonged exposure can cause severe chemical burns. Workers handling wet cement or improperly protected against its caustic nature risk permanent skin damage or respiratory issues from inhaling dust.
Construction projects in NYC often involve hazardous chemicals like adhesives, solvents, and cleaning agents. Workers exposed to these substances can suffer chemical burns, respiratory problems, or long-term illnesses without proper ventilation and safety measures.
Busy NYC construction sites are full of hazards like uneven surfaces, cables, and misplaced tools. These trip and fall incidents can result in fractures, sprains, or head injuries, particularly in tight urban work environments.
With limited space in NYC, workers often share confined areas with heavy vehicles like forklifts, dump trucks, and cranes. Poor visibility, inadequate training, or rushed operations can lead to devastating collisions and crush injuries.
Demolition is a routine part of NYC’s ever-evolving skyline, but poor planning or unsafe practices can cause debris to fall or structures to collapse. Workers and nearby pedestrians can suffer life-altering injuries from flying rubble or building failures.
Improper use or defective hand and power tools are frequent culprits of injuries on NYC construction sites. Workers may suffer lacerations, amputations, or electrocution if tools are not maintained or used according to safety guidelines.
Falling Construction Debris & Objects
In a dense city like NYC, falling debris is a significant hazard for both workers and pedestrians. Tools, building materials, or unsecured equipment can cause traumatic brain injuries, fractures, or even fatalities.
Excavation projects in NYC for utilities and foundations pose risks of trench collapses, often due to insufficient supports. Workers buried under soil and debris can experience suffocation, crush injuries, or death.
Roofers in NYC frequently work at dangerous heights on buildings across the city. Lack of fall protection, unstable surfaces, or inclement weather can lead to severe falls, head injuries, or fractures.
Extreme NYC weather, from icy winters to sweltering summers, contributes to construction accidents. Slippery surfaces, heat exhaustion, and equipment malfunctions during storms are common issues workers face year-round.
Heavy Machinery Accidents
Forklifts, cranes, and bulldozers are essential on New York construction sites but can be dangerous when poorly maintained or operated. Crashes, malfunctions, or operator errors often result in life-threatening injuries.
New York’s skyline depends on scaffolding and ladders for maintenance and construction. Collapses, defective equipment, or unsafe setups can lead to devastating falls, broken bones, or head injuries.
Welding in NYC construction often occurs in tight spaces or at great heights. Burns, eye injuries from inadequate protection, or inhalation of toxic fumes are common risks for welders.
Forklifts are ubiquitous on NYC construction sites but can be hazardous if improperly loaded, operated by inexperienced drivers, or poorly maintained. Tip-overs or collisions can result in serious crush injuries.
Dump trucks are common in NYC’s construction projects, hauling debris and materials. Accidents involving poor visibility, tight urban spaces, or mechanical failures can cause severe injuries to workers and pedestrians.
Cranes are vital for NYC’s high-rise construction, but accidents involving collapsing booms, falling loads, or equipment failures can lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities for workers and bystanders alike.
Exposed wiring, ungrounded tools, or contact with live power lines are frequent causes of electrocution on NYC construction sites. These incidents often result in severe burns, nerve damage, or death.
Faulty tools and machines are common hazards on NYC construction sites. Defective equipment can cause unanticipated malfunctions, leading to lacerations, fractures, or even fatalities.
In some tragic cases, construction accidents lead to fatalities. The “Fatal Four” – falls, electrocutions, struck-by incidents, and caught-in-between accidents – account for the majority of deaths. New York’s labor laws aim to hold negligent parties accountable for these preventable tragedies. Families can pursue workers’ compensation benefits or wrongful death claims to secure justice and financial support.
Risk Factors on New York Construction Sites
Despite New York’s stringent labor laws and safety protocols, NYC construction sites present unique challenges that make them some of the most hazardous in the country. The city’s towering skylines, bustling urban activity, and complex infrastructure create a perfect storm of risks for workers.
Congested NYC Job Sites
NYC’s limited space means construction projects often occur in confined areas, with multiple crews working simultaneously. Overcrowding increases the likelihood of accidents due to miscommunication, equipment mishandling, or insufficient room for safe maneuvering.
Fall & Tripping Hazards
The city’s high-rise buildings heighten the danger of falls from scaffolding, ladders, or exposed beams. Improperly secured scaffolding, unstable ladders, and missing guardrails are common contributors. New York’s Labor Law 240, or the “Scaffold Law,” holds contractors accountable for providing proper fall protection.
Inadequate Protective Gear
Non-compliance with OSHA standards for personal protective equipment (PPE) leaves workers vulnerable to injuries. Workers without helmets, safety harnesses, steel-toed boots, or goggles face increased risks, especially on fast-paced or high-pressure job sites.
NYC’s extensive electrical infrastructure and underground utilities pose significant risks for construction workers. Exposed wires, improper grounding, and accidental contact with live electrical lines frequently result in electrocutions. Strict adherence to electrical safety protocols is critical.
Heavy Machinery & Tool Risks
With cranes, forklifts, jackhammers, and other powerful equipment in constant use, the risk of machinery malfunctions or operator errors is high. Rushed deadlines, insufficient training, and mechanical failures can lead to catastrophic injuries.
Vibration Injuries
Continuous exposure to vibrations from tools like jackhammers and drills can cause long-term injuries such as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) or nerve damage. These risks are exacerbated by inadequate safety measures and prolonged use without breaks.
Construction Debris & Falling Objects
High-rise projects often result in falling tools, building materials, or debris. Even with helmets, workers risk traumatic brain injuries or other serious harm if struck by falling objects. Employers must ensure that tools and materials are properly secured.
Many NYC construction sites are adjacent to busy streets or sidewalks, putting workers at risk of being struck by vehicles or pedestrians wandering into hazardous areas. Proper barriers, signage, and traffic control measures are essential to reduce these risks.
Subway & Underground Work
Working near or within the city’s extensive subway system presents unique challenges. Collapses, vibrations from passing trains, and poor ventilation in underground sites can lead to serious accidents.
Noise & Communication Issues
NYC construction sites are notoriously noisy, making it difficult for workers to communicate effectively. Misunderstandings or missed warnings in such environments can lead to accidents involving heavy machinery, vehicles, or falling materials.
Hazardous Materials
Exposure to asbestos, lead paint, or toxic fumes is common in NYC, particularly in older buildings undergoing renovation. Workers handling these harmful materials must have proper training and protective equipment to avoid long-term health complications.
Night Work Risks
Many NYC construction projects operate at night to minimize disruption to daytime activities. Poor lighting, worker fatigue, and reduced visibility increase the likelihood of accidents during these shifts.
High-Pressure Deadlines
The fast-paced nature of NYC construction projects often prioritizes speed over safety. Workers are frequently pushed to meet tight deadlines, leading to fatigue, stress, and an increased likelihood of mistakes or shortcuts.
Weather-Related Construction Risks
NYC’s unpredictable weather poses year-round construction hazards. Rain, snow, and high winds create slippery surfaces and endanger those on scaffolding or cranes. Frigid winters risk frostbite, while summer heatwaves can cause dehydration. Employers must enforce safety measures and contingency plans to protect workers.
HKD – Protecting New York Construction Workers
At Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., we understand the unique dangers NYC construction workers face. Whether it’s securing compensation for a workplace injury or holding negligent parties accountable, our team is here to advocate for your rights.
Whether you’ve experienced a fall, machinery accident, or other construction-related injury, our experienced construction injury attorneys are ready to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Construction Site Injury in NYC
If you’ve been injured on a construction site in New York City, taking the right steps can protect your health and preserve your legal rights. Immediate action can also strengthen your case.
Seek Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Visit a hospital or urgent care center for treatment and ensure all injuries are documented.
Report the Incident: Notify your employer or site manager about the accident as soon as possible to create an official record.
Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident site, including hazardous conditions, equipment, and any visible injuries.
Collect Witness Info: Gather contact details of coworkers or bystanders who saw the accident happen.
Preserve Evidence: Keep copies of safety reports, equipment logs, and any communication with your employer regarding the accident.
File a Workers’ Comp Claim: Submit your claim promptly to ensure access to medical benefits and wage replacement.
Consult a Top-Rated NYC Construction Accident Lawyer: Finding a reputable construction accident law firm in New York can feel daunting, but a skilled attorney can help you navigate complex laws, identify liable parties, and secure maximum compensation.
Construction accidents in New York City frequently result in severe injuries due to the nature of the work and the unique challenges of urban construction sites. The potential for catastrophic harm is ever-present, from high-rise projects to crowded infrastructure repairs.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or incomplete structures are a leading cause of construction site injuries in NYC. These accidents often result in spinal cord damage, leading to paralysis, loss of motor function, or chronic pain. Such injuries can require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and home modifications, significantly impacting a victim’s quality of life.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The risk of falling objects—such as tools, debris, or building materials—is heightened in NYC’s multi-level construction projects. Even when wearing a hard hat, workers can sustain TBIs, leading to symptoms like memory loss, impaired motor skills, and permanent cognitive disabilities. The crowded nature of urban sites often amplifies these risks.
Amputations: Heavy machinery accidents are particularly common on NYC’s bustling construction sites. Forklifts, cranes, and other industrial equipment can lead to crushed limbs or traumatic amputations due to operator errors or unsafe work practices. The physical and emotional toll of such injuries is immense, often requiring prosthetics and extensive therapy.
Severe Burns: Construction work involving welding, exposure to chemicals, or electrical systems carries a significant risk of burns. Workers may suffer third-degree burns from explosions, live wires, or chemical spills. These injuries frequently necessitate skin grafts, extended hospital stays, and ongoing treatment for scarring and mobility limitations.
Fractures & Broken Bones: Slip-and-fall accidents, ladder collapses, and machinery incidents often result in broken bones or fractures. In NYC’s fast-paced construction environments, these injuries can sideline workers for weeks or months, jeopardizing their income and job stability.
Respiratory Illnesses & Toxic Exposure: Construction workers in NYC frequently encounter harmful substances, including asbestos, silica dust, and chemical fumes. Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic respiratory conditions, lung diseases, or even cancers. The close quarters of urban construction amplify the danger of inhaling hazardous particles.
Lacerations & Soft Tissue Injuries: Sharp tools, falling glass, or improperly secured materials can cause deep cuts and lacerations. Soft tissue injuries, such as ligament tears or sprains, are also common, particularly when workers maneuver through cramped, obstacle-filled spaces.
Eye Injuries: Construction work involving welding, grinding, or cutting materials often results in eye injuries. Sparks, debris, or improper protective equipment can cause temporary or permanent vision loss, making these incidents particularly devastating.
Crushing Injuries: Caught-in-between accidents, where workers are pinned by heavy equipment or materials, are a serious concern on NYC job sites. These incidents can result in crushed bones, organ damage, or fatalities, especially in high-density construction areas.
By recognizing the types of injuries most common to NYC construction sites, workers and their families can better understand their rights and the importance of pursuing adequate compensation to address their immediate and long-term needs.
Long-Term Impact of NYC Construction Injuries
Injuries sustained on New York City construction sites can have devastating and enduring consequences, profoundly affecting victims’ physical, emotional, and financial well-being.
Chronic Pain: Many construction injuries, like fractures or soft tissue damage, can result in ongoing pain, limiting a worker’s ability to return to their previous role or even perform daily activities.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Experiencing a traumatic accident, such as a fall from a height or being caught in a trench collapse, can lead to severe emotional distress and PTSD, making it challenging for victims to return to work on construction sites.
Permanent Disability: Injuries like TBIs, spinal cord damage, or amputations can leave workers permanently disabled, requiring modifications to their homes, assistive devices, or long-term care. Read More: How to File for Disability After an Accident
Wrongful Death: Tragically, some construction accidents in NYC result in fatalities, leaving families to navigate the financial and emotional toll. Falls, electrocutions, and building collapses are among the most common causes of construction site deaths in the city.
Resources for Injured Construction Workers
New York City offers a range of critical resources to support construction workers recovering from job-related injuries. From world-class trauma centers and rehabilitation hospitals to mental health services, these organizations are here to help.
NYC Trauma Centers
NYU Langone Health – Tisch Hospital – A Level 1 Trauma Center offering comprehensive emergency care for severe construction injuries, including spinal trauma and TBIs.
Bellevue Hospital Center – NYC’s oldest public hospital and a Level 1 Trauma Center, known for treating a wide range of construction-related injuries.
Mount Sinai Hospital – Provides advanced orthopedic and neurological care for injuries sustained on job sites, such as fractures and brain trauma.
NYC Rehab Centers
Rusk Rehabilitation at NYU Langone – A leading rehabilitation center for physical and occupational therapy, helping construction workers regain strength and mobility.
Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) – Specializes in orthopedic and musculoskeletal rehabilitation, with a focus on helping patients recover from fractures and joint injuries.
NYC Well – A free, confidential mental health support service offering counseling and referrals for construction workers dealing with PTSD or emotional distress.
What If I'm Injured At Work By Defective Equipment?
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In New York state, if you're injured by defective equipment on a job site, for example, a saw that is missing a safety cover, the owner ... of the property and the general contractor on the work site may be held responsible under New York labor law. If a piece of equipment is poorly maintained at a job site, there still may be liability for the owner of the property and the general contractor where the accident her close.
“I cannot recommend Jon Damashek highly enough. I attribute the favorable outcome of my case to his consummate and tireless dedication and tenacity. Just as important, he was truly there with me every step of the way. He was very…
Your Legal Rights & Options After a Construction Accident
Whether it’s a fall from scaffolding, an equipment malfunction, or exposure to hazardous materials, understanding your rights is crucial if you’re hurt on a construction site. From workers’ compensation to insurance claims, and third-party lawsuits, injured workers have multiple ways to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Who’s Liable for a NYC Construction Accident?
Liability for a construction accident in New York often involves multiple parties. Depending on the circumstances, property owners, general contractors, subcontractors, vendors, architects, engineers, and equipment manufacturers may all share responsibility. Determining “liability” is critical since each party’s insurance coverage impacts the compensation you can recover. An experienced construction accident attorney can investigate your case to identify the negligent party and maximize your recovery.
NY Construction Site Negligence
Negligence on a New York construction site occurs when a responsible party—such as a contractor or property owner—fails to follow safety protocols, resulting in harm. To prove negligence, four elements must be established:
Duty of Care: The responsible party had a duty to maintain a safe work environment.
Breach of Duty: They failed to uphold that duty, such as by neglecting safety equipment or training.
Causation: This breach directly caused the accident.
Damages: The accident resulted in tangible harm, such as injuries or financial loss.
For example, if a contractor fails to provide proper harnesses, and a worker falls and is injured, the contractor’s negligence makes them liable. Proving negligence often involves gathering evidence like accident reports, OSHA violations, or expert testimony.
If you’ve been injured on a construction site in New York City, Workers’ compensation offers a critical safety net, covering medical bills, partial wages, and death benefits—regardless of who’s at fault. In cases where a worker becomes disabled, filing for Social Security Disability benefits may also be an option.
But you may also have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit, unlocking compensation for pain and suffering, future lost income, and ongoing medical expenses. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also apply.
At HKD, we explore every avenue to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
What Damages Are Available After a New York Construction Accident
If you’re injured on a construction site in New York City, the law allows you to recover damages that go beyond basic workers’ compensation. These damages can provide a path to financial recovery, compensating you for both tangible and intangible losses.
Economic Damages
These damages cover the measurable financial impact of your accident, including:
Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment for injuries.
Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost while you recover, including missed opportunities like overtime or bonuses.
Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries limit your ability to work at full capacity, you can recover compensation for future lost income.
Property Damage: Covers repair or replacement of personal property damaged during the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages address the personal and emotional toll of your injuries:
Pain & Suffering: For the physical discomfort and ongoing challenges caused by your injuries.
Emotional Distress: Compensation for anxiety, PTSD, and other psychological effects of the accident.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Reflects the diminished ability to engage in hobbies, sports, or everyday activities.
Loss of Consortium: Recognizes the impact on your relationships, particularly with your spouse or family.
NY Labor Laws for Injured Construction Workers
NY’s labor laws empower workers further. Even if the site owner or contractor wasn’t directly involved in your accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Some of the most notable labor laws applicable to New York City construction workers are:
NY Labor Law 200 – New York Labor Law 200dictates employers’ duty to protect employees’ health and safety. Businesses must provide “reasonable and adequate protection to the lives, health, and safety of all persons” they employ.
NY Labor Law 240 – New York Labor Law 240is known as the “Scaffold Law.” It outlines special protections for workers who may be hurt in gravity-related incidents, like scaffolding accidents. This includes workers who are injured in falls or by falling objects.
NY Labor Law 241 – New York Labor Law 241is a more specific regulation regarding an employer’s responsibilities toward employees on construction, demolition, and excavation sites, including the specific equipment employers must provide.
OSHA General Duty – OSHA’s General Duty Clause requires that employers provide employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards or toxic chemicals likely to cause death or serious physical harm. OSHA can cite employers for violating the General Duty Clause if there is a recognized hazard and they do not take reasonable steps to prevent or diminish it.
The Legal Process After a NY Construction Site Accident
The aftermath of any personal injury case can feel overwhelming, but the stakes are even higher in a construction injury case. Your health, livelihood, and future may all be at stake. That’s where Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C. (HKD) comes in. With decades of experience and deep roots in NYC’s legal landscape, we provide injured workers with the advocacy and support they need to secure maximum compensation. When you choose HKD, you’re not just hiring a law firm—you’re gaining a relentless team that fights for you at every turn.
From the moment you engage HKD, our construction accident lawyers will investigate what led to your construction accident and identify the liable parties. Construction accident claims can be intricate, often involving several potential defendants, from contractors to equipment manufacturers.
Legal intervention is vital, as evidence can quickly change or disappear at construction sites. As a construction accident law firm, we will meticulously compile evidence, including site inspections, equipment logs, and safety compliance records, and gather witnesses and expert testimonies to prove your case.
Negotiate with Insurance & Employers
Dealing with insurance companies and big construction companies after accidents can be intimidating. But HKD is not afraid to confront insurance adjusters, or anyone determined to minimize your work injury.
Our construction site injury lawyers will we handle all communication with insurance adjusters and fight tenaciously to secure all your losses, both immediate and future, related to your injuries. We’re well-versed in complex construction industry language and insurance policy details and are prepared to push back against any insurance defenses or tactics meant to undercut your rightful settlement.
How to Maximize Compensation in a Construction Accident Case
At HKD, we recognize that a construction site accident extends far beyond immediate injuries. The financial strain, emotional distress, and lasting impact on your quality of life deserve full recognition in your compensation.
Our dedicated construction accident lawyers will methodically calculate every element of your claim—future medical expenses, lost income, diminished earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering—to ensure you receive the maximum recovery possible. We fight to make sure you’re fully supported as you rebuild your life.
When Are Construction Injury Lawsuits Are Necessary
While many construction accident claims are settled through negotiations, there are times when filing a construction accident lawsuit becomes essential. Insurers may undervalue your claim or refuse to cover the full extent of your injuries, leaving legal action as the only viable path forward.
At HKD, we take the complexity out of the litigation process, guiding you through every stage:
Filing the Complaint: We prepare and submit a thorough legal complaint in the appropriate New York court, such as the New York County Supreme Court, outlining the facts of your case and your legal claims.
Discovery Process: Our attorneys exchange evidence with the opposing party, including documents, accident reports, and witness testimony, to build a strong foundation for a winning case.
Depositions: We work with witnesses and experts to provide sworn testimony, reinforcing the facts of your claim and demonstrating the impact of your injuries.
Trial Advocacy: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our seasoned trial attorneys are fully prepared to advocate for you in court.
From Manhattan to Queens, our NYC construction accident lawyers have the local insight, courtroom experience, and determination you need. At HKD, we don’t just file lawsuits—we protect your future and ensure you receive justice.
Pursue Justice & Construction Industry Safety
When you partner with HKD, you’re advocating not only for your rights but also for safer practices in the New York construction industry. By holding negligent contractors, property owners, and equipment manufacturers accountable, we push for higher safety standards and greater accountability.
Every case we win sends a powerful message to the industry: cutting corners on safety will not be tolerated. Your pursuit of justice becomes a catalyst for change, protecting workers across NYC from preventable harm.
Can I File a Construction Accident Lawsuit & A NY Workers’ Comp Claim?
Yes, you can have a third-party claim if you also make a workers’ comp claim. If you were injured on the job, you can make a workers’ comp claim regardless of who is at fault. However, if someone other than a coworker or your employer is to blame, you may also sue someone else, such as an equipment manufacturer or the seller of a dangerous product.
How Long Do I Have to File a Construction Accident Claim in New York?
What Are the Common Causes of Construction Accident Deaths in New York City?
According to the New York City Health Department Bureau of Vital Statistics, some of the most common causes of construction accident deaths include falls from scaffolds, ladders, and roofs, as well as being struck, crushed, or caught between objects or equipment.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Construction Accident in NYC?
After a construction accident in New York City, seek immediate medical attention. Then, notify your employer about the accident and document everything from the scene as soon as possible. Contacting a construction accident attorney is essential to protect your rights and explore your options.
Is It Possible to Sue the Government for a Construction Accident?
If your accident occurred on a government property or involved a government entity’s negligence, you may be able to sue the government. However, claims against government entities have specific procedural rules and shorter time limits, making prompt legal consultation crucial.
What if I am a Non-Worker Injured on a NYC Construction Site?
Non-workers injured at or near construction sites may have a personal injury claim against the construction company, property owner, or other responsible parties. These claims can cover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Can I Sue My Employer for a Construction Accident in NYC?
Typically, you cannot sue your employer directly for a construction accident because workers’ compensation provides exclusive remedies. However, you can pursue a third-party claim against contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners if their negligence contributed to your injuries.
Are Union Workers Treated Differently in NYC Construction Accident Claims?
Union workers have the same rights as non-union workers when it comes to pursuing compensation for construction accidents. However, union agreements may provide additional benefits or protections, and your attorney can work with your union to maximize your recovery.
How Long Will It Take to Resolve My NYC Construction Accident Case?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Many claims settle within months, but cases involving lawsuits or extensive disputes can take a year or longer. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline based on your situation.
Can I Afford a Construction Accident Lawyer in NYC?
Most NYC construction accident attorneys, including HKD, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and the attorney only gets paid if you recover compensation. Our “no win, no fee” guarantee ensures that financial concerns won’t prevent you from seeking justice. During your free consultation, we’ll clearly explain our fee structure and handle all case expenses, so you can focus on recovering while we fight for maximum compensation.
How to Choose the Best Construction Accident Lawyer in NYC
Choosing the best possible construction accident lawyer in NYC requires finding one with proven experience in local construction laws like Labor Law 240 (the “Scaffold Law”) and a track record of significant settlements and verdicts. Look for a nearby construction injury lawyer with strong client reviews, a free consultation, and a transparent contingency fee structure, so you pay nothing upfront and only if they win. A well-respected, local injury attorney will bring deep knowledge of NYC’s construction landscape and court systems, ensuring your case is handled effectively and with the attention it deserves.
How Does New York Labor Law Apply To Construction Accidents?
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New York state is a very pro worker state and they have something called the labor law. And the labor law ... deals with cases involving the renovation, construction, demolition, some type of structure. And in New York, if you are a worker working at a height and the device that the owner or general contractor provided to you fails, such as a ladder or scaffold, and you fall, the law in New York is that it's 100% the fault of the owner and general contract. So there's a strict liability statute when it comes to workers working at a height.
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Contact a NYC Construction Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured or suffered a loss in a construction accident, you deserve answers and full compensation. At Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., our skilled NYC construction accident attorneys, backed by decades of experience and substantial recoveries for construction injury victims, will guide you and seek the maximum recovery you deserve.
There are never up-front costs and nothing unless you recover compensation. Call 212-271-4156 or contact us online to request a free consultation with a construction accident lawyer near you.
