Combining our comprehensive understanding of New York construction laws with a strategic approach to each case, Apicella & Schlesinger is well-equipped to handle even the most challenging construction accident claims.
Construction sites are inherently dangerous places, with high risks of accidents due to the heavy machinery, elevated work platforms, and the general complexity of construction projects. New York State, including the Bronx, has specific laws and regulations designed to protect construction workers and ensure safe working conditions.
If you were involved in a construction accident in the Bronx, contact Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law. With more than 45 years of experience, our personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through the entire legal process.
New York Construction Laws and Regulations
- Labor Law 240 (1), also known as the “Scaffold Law,”: This law holds contractors, owners, and their agents liable for injuries sustained by workers due to inadequate safety provisions for work at heights. This includes work involving scaffolding, ladders, hoists, or any device that elevates workers. These devices must be constructed, placed, and operated safely to protect workers.
- Labor Law 241 (6): This statute requires contractors and owners to comply with specific safety rules of the New York State Industrial Code. It mandates that all areas in which construction, excavation, or demolition work is performed shall be constructed, shored, equipped, guarded, arranged, operated, and conducted to provide reasonable and adequate protection and safety to the persons employed therein.
- Labor Law 200: A general provision that mandates safe working conditions. It holds property owners and contractors responsible for ensuring that all areas are constructed, equipped, arranged, and operated to provide reasonable and adequate protection to the safety and health of workers.
Common Construction Accident Scenarios in the Bronx
- Falls from Heights: These can occur from scaffolding, ladders, or other elevated platforms. Such falls often result in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Struck-by Incidents: Workers may be struck by heavy equipment, falling objects, or vehicles moving around the site.
- Electrocutions: These are common in construction sites with exposed wiring, power lines, or incomplete electrical systems.
- Caught-in/between: Workers can be caught in or compressed by equipment and objects or struck, caught, or crushed in collapsing structures, equipment, or material.
How Apicella & Schlesinger Handles Construction Accident Cases
- Expert Case Assessment: We begin with a detailed accident evaluation to understand all the factors involved. This includes a review of the site, the equipment, and the circumstances of the accident.
- Navigating Complex Laws: We have a deep understanding of New York’s specific construction laws and use this knowledge to advocate effectively for our clients. This involves determining liability under the Scaffold Law, Labor Law 241 (6), and other relevant statutes.
- Compensation Pursuit: We aim to secure total compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. We navigate through workers’ compensation claims and, if necessary, pursue further litigation against responsible parties outside the workers’ compensation system.
- Settlements and Trials: We are skilled in both negotiation and litigation. Depending on what best suits the client’s situation, we can negotiate settlements or proceed to trial to ensure justice is served.