Working on scaffolding in the busy cityscape of New York means you’re constantly working in a risky environment.
If you’ve been injured in a scaffolding accident in the Big Apple, we understand that the challenges you're facing can feel overwhelming, and the pressure to recover physically while dealing with financial strains and legal complexities can be daunting.
At Ajlouny Injury Law, we offer empathetic and dedicated support tailored to scaffolding workers like you. Our team is committed to helping you through every step of your legal journey, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
We know the unique risks associated with scaffolding work in NYC and are here to advocate for your rights with the experience and care you need.
Do You Have a Case?
To determine if you have a valid claim following a scaffolding accident, the following key elements need to be established:
- Duty of Care: Did the employer or contractor have a responsibility to ensure the scaffolding was safe and properly maintained?
- Breach of Duty: Was there a failure to uphold this safety obligation, such as inadequate inspections or faulty equipment?
- Causation: Did the breach in safety directly lead to your scaffolding accident and subsequent injury?
- Damages: Did you experience measurable harm, including medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering?
If you answered “yes” to the above questions, you may have a strong case for compensation after a construction accident or scaffold collapse.
Damages You Can Recover After A Scaffolding Accident
If you’ve been injured in a scaffolding accident, you may be entitled to various types of damages to compensate for your losses:
- Economic Damages: Cover quantifiable financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and costs for future medical care or rehabilitation. They also include any modifications needed for your home or vehicle due to your injury.
- Non-Economic Damages: Address the intangible impacts of your injury, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. They aim to compensate for the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on your quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the negligence was particularly egregious or intentional, punitive damages may be awarded. These are designed to punish the responsible party and discourage similar conduct in the future.
How to Get in Touch With Us
Reaching out to us is easy and convenient after an accident in New York. Here’s how you can get in touch:
- Telephone: Call us at (718) 795-2425 for direct assistance and immediate support.
- Contact Form: Fill out our contact form for a prompt response from our team.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Don’t hesitate to get in touch—our New York City personal injury lawyers are here to help you every step of the way.
Your Rights After a Scaffolding Accident
If you've been injured in a scaffolding accident in New York, it’s important to know your rights:
- Right to medical treatment: You have the right to seek medical treatment for your injuries, regardless of whether you have health insurance. Keep all your medical records and bills as they will be important evidence in your case.
- Right to workers' compensation benefits: As a construction worker, you are likely eligible for workers' compensation benefits, which can cover a portion of your medical bills and lost wages.
- Right to file a personal injury lawsuit: In addition to workers' compensation, you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the parties responsible for your accident. A personal injury lawsuit can allow you to recover compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
Meet Your Scaffolding Accident Attorneys in NYC
At Ajlouny Injury Law, we recognize that the fallout of a scaffolding accident can feel confusing and uncertain. Our commitment as New York labor attorneys goes beyond delivering expert legal counsel—we’re here to offer the empathetic support and practical guidance you need to find your way forward with confidence.
Paul Ajlouny
Paul Ajlouny is a well-known personal injury lawyer based in Brooklyn. He’s respected across New York State for his sharp legal skills and caring approach.
Paul graduated from St. John’s University and gained valuable experience at the Daniel Galinson firm before starting Ajlouny Injury Law. Over his career, he has secured over $150 million in settlements for his clients.
Paul’s focus on putting clients first and his relentless pursuit of justice have made him a trusted name in the legal community.
Michael Levitz
Michael Levitz brings a unique perspective to personal injury law, blending his legal knowledge with the strategic thinking he developed as a competitive athlete. A Hofstra University Law School graduate, Michael is known for his strong negotiation skills and deep commitment to his clients.
Michael has also been recognized as one of the Top 40 National Trial Lawyers under 40 and has received the Rising Star award from Super Lawyers Magazine. His goal is always to achieve the best possible results for his clients.
Important Initial Advice For an NYC Scaffolding Accident
If you’ve been involved in a scaffolding accident as a worker, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can significantly impact your recovery and potential claim. Here’s what to focus on first:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by getting medical treatment right away, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, but can still have a lasting impact.
- Report the Incident: Inform your supervisor or manager about the accident as soon as possible. Ensure that the incident is documented in the company’s accident report log.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the scaffolding and any factors that may have contributed to the accident. This evidence can be crucial for your claim.
- Gather Witness Information: Obtain contact details from anyone who witnessed the accident. Their accounts can support your version of events and provide additional evidence.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to the treatment plan and attend any follow-up appointments recommended by your healthcare provider. It is essential to keep a detailed record of your medical treatment and progress.
- Keep Records of All Expenses: Save all receipts and documentation related to medical costs, prescription medications, and any other expenses resulting from the accident in order to accurately calculate economic damages.
- Notify Your Workers’ Compensation Carrier: Report the accident to your workers’ compensation insurance carrier as soon as possible to start the claims process.
- Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not admit fault or make statements that could be misinterpreted as admitting fault. Focus on providing factual information about the accident.
- Consult with a Workers’ Compensation Attorney from Ajlouny Injury Law: Seek legal advice from an experienced attorney from our personal injury law firm. We specialize in scaffolding accidents and will guide you through the claims process and ensure your rights are protected.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep any clothing or personal protective equipment (PPE) involved in the accident. These items may serve as evidence of safety violations or equipment failure.
- File an Official Accident Report: If required, complete and submit any additional accident report forms as directed by your employer or the Workers’ Compensation Board.
- Monitor Your Condition: Keep records of your physical and emotional health. Document any changes or new symptoms that arise, as they may be relevant to your case.
Deadlines for Filing Scaffolding Accident Claims in New York
There are strict deadlines for filing claims after a scaffolding accident in New York, and missing these deadlines can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation for your injuries.
You generally have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there may be exceptions or specific circumstances that affect this timeline, such as cases involving minors or the government.
If you are involved in a scaffolding accident that takes place on government property, you have just 90 days from the incident date to file your claim.
Intricacies like these are why it is so important to consult with an experienced New York scaffolding accident lawyer from our firm as soon as possible to ensure you meet all relevant deadlines and understand the complexities of your case.
We will assess the specific details of your situation, advise you on the appropriate course of action, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Deadlines for Filing a Workers Comp Claim
You generally have two years to file a workers’ compensation claim after the date of your accident. It’s important to pay attention to this deadline, because filing after the statute of limitations has passed may prevent you from receiving benefits.
Be sure to act promptly and consult with an attorney as soon as possible. While the two-year period seems like ample time, gathering medical records, documentation, and building a strong case can be time-consuming, and delays could hinder your ability to collect necessary evidence or meet specific procedural requirements.
An experienced New York workers' compensation attorney can guide you through the claims process, ensuring that all deadlines are met and your rights are protected. Remember, missing the deadline can have severe consequences, potentially barring you from receiving the compensation you deserve.
Gathering Evidence For Your Scaffolding Accident Case
Collecting evidence promptly is key to strengthening your scaffolding accident case. Here’s what you should gather:
- Medical Records: Obtain all medical documentation related to your injuries and treatment.
- Accident Report: Secure a copy of the report filed with your employer.
- Photos and Videos: Capture images of the accident scene, scaffolding, and any visible injuries.
- Witness Statements: Get contact information and statements from those who saw the accident.
- Safety Records: Request records of relevant scaffolding inspections and maintenance.
- Workplace Safety Reports: Collect any safety reports or records of previous incidents.
- Employment Records: Gather documents related to your job and work conditions, and documentation that proves your absence if the injury caused you to miss work.
- Personal Notes: Keep a journal of your recovery and how the injury impacts your life over time.
Our scaffolding accident lawyer in New York is here to help gather this evidence for you so you can focus on recovering from your injuries
What Can I Expect to Pay?
At Ajlouny Injury Law, we understand that dealing with the financial aspects of a legal case can be stressful. That’s why we use a contingency fee model for our personal injury cases, including scaffolding accidents.
Here’s what you need to know about our pricing:
- Contingency Fee Model: You don’t pay any upfront legal fees. Instead, our payment is based on a percentage of the compensation we secure for you, which means that if we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us anything.
- No Hidden Costs: Our contingency fee is clearly outlined from the start, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Any additional costs, such as court fees or expert witness fees, will be discussed during our initial consultation.
- Focused on Your Recovery: This model ensures that our interests are aligned with yours—our payment depends on us maximizing your compensation.
This approach allows you to pursue your claim without the burden of paying upfront legal fees, making it easier to focus on your recovery. If you have any questions about our fee structure, don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.
Why Choose Us Over Other New York Scaffolding Injury Lawyers?
When it comes to handling scaffolding injury cases in New York, Ajlouny Injury Law stands out for several compelling reasons:
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has a history of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for clients. With a proven track record of success in scaffolding and construction-related cases, we bring experience and expertise to every case.
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your needs and well-being. From personalized legal strategies to compassionate support, we ensure that you receive the attention and care you deserve throughout the legal process.
- Experienced Legal Team: Our team, led by distinguished attorneys Paul Ajlouny and Michael Levitz, combines deep legal knowledge with practical experience. Paul’s success in obtaining over $150 million in settlements and Michael’s recognition as a top trial lawyer highlight our commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
- Comprehensive Support: Beyond legal representation, we assist with every aspect of your case, including dealing with insurance companies, handling paperwork, and managing medical expenses. We aim to simplify the process so you can focus on your recovery.
Premise Liability and Scaffolding Accidents
Premise liability is a legal principle that holds property owners responsible for injuries sustained on their property due to unsafe conditions.
In the context of scaffolding accidents, property owners can be held liable for injuries if they fail to maintain a safe work environment, for example, by neglecting to provide adequate scaffolding materials, conduct regular inspections, or train workers on proper scaffolding use.
Beyond property owners, other parties may share liability for scaffolding accidents, including general contractors, subcontractors responsible for erecting the scaffolding, or manufacturers of defective scaffolding components.
Determining liability can be complex in any case, but especially if multiple parties may have contributed to the accident.
That’s why it’s important to enlist professional help. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, identify all potentially responsible parties, and build a strong case to maximize your chances of recovering damages.
Scaffolding Rules and Regulations in New York
New York has some of the most stringent construction safety regulations in the country. These regulations are designed to protect workers from falls and other scaffolding hazards.
Some of the key regulations include:
- Scaffolding must be erected, dismantled, and used under the supervision of a competent person.
- Scaffolding must be designed and constructed to support the weight of workers, materials, and equipment.
- Scaffolding components must be inspected for defects regularly.
- Fall protection, such as guardrails and safety nets, must be provided for workers working at heights.
- Workers must be provided with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats and harnesses, which must be worn at all times.
Causes of Scaffolding Accidents
Scaffolding accidents can be caused by a number of factors, often including a combination of unsafe conditions and practices. Common causes include:
- Improper Installation: Scaffolding that is not correctly assembled or secured can become unstable, or even collapse.
- Faulty Equipment: Defective or worn-out scaffolding components, such as planks, braces, or connectors, can lead to dangerous accidents.
- Lack of Maintenance: Failure to regularly inspect and maintain scaffolding can result in deteriorated or unsafe structures.
- Inadequate Safety Training: Workers who have not received proper training on scaffold safety are at higher risk of accidents.
- Overloading: Excessive weight beyond the scaffolding’s capacity can cause it to collapse or fail.
- Environmental Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds, rain, or ice, can affect scaffolding stability and safety.
- Improper Use: Incorrect use of scaffolding, such as using it as a storage platform or working from unsafe heights, can lead to falls and other injuries.
- Unsafe Work Practices: Practices such as failing to use fall protection equipment, failing to provide PPE, or not securing tools and materials can increase the risk of accidents.
Typical Injuries We See
In scaffolding accidents, workers can suffer from a range of serious injuries, including:
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Impacts from falls can lead to severe fractures, commonly in limbs, ribs, or the spine.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Falling objects or falls from the structure can cause concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or other head trauma.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, leading to long-term impacts to mobility and overall quality of life.
- Internal Injuries: Blows or falls can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs such as the liver or kidneys.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Sharp edges or falling debris can lead to deep cuts and lacerations, sometimes requiring surgery.
- Sprains and Strains: Overexertion or sudden movements can cause muscle strains or ligament sprains.
- Dislocations: Impact from falls or falling objects can cause joints to dislocate, requiring realignment and rehabilitation.
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and recovery time, and can have long-term effects on a worker’s health and ability to perform their job.
Other Locations We Serve
At Ajlouny Injury Law, our commitment to providing exceptional legal support extends across all of New York City. We understand that accidents can happen anywhere, and our team is dedicated to serving clients throughout the entire NYC area.
Our services cover a range of locations, including but not limited to:
- Brooklyn
- Garden City
- New York
- Queens
Speak to our New York Scaffolding Accident Law Firm Today!
If you’ve been injured in a scaffolding accident, we understand the toll it can take on your life and well-being. At Ajlouny Injury Law, our dedicated team is here to provide the compassionate support and expert legal guidance you need during this challenging time.
Our experienced New York construction accident lawyers can help you pursue a successful personal injury lawsuit.
We are committed to helping you receive the compensation you deserve, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation.
