The short answer: Yes, you can sue after a construction accident in New York City. The long answer: New York has some of the strongest worker-protection laws in the country. If you were injured on a construction site, you may be entitled to compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits.
Construction accident cases in NYC are often complex, involving multiple contractors, property owners, and strict labor laws. Understanding your rights is critical.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Lawsuit
After a construction accident, most injured workers automatically qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, which typically cover:
- Medical treatment
- A portion of lost wages
- Disability benefits
However, unlike a personal injury lawsuit, workers’ compensation does not cover pain and suffering.
In many NYC construction accidents, you may also have the right to file a separate personal injury lawsuit against a third party (not your direct employer). This can significantly increase the compensation available to you. Contact our office to see if your injury qualifies.
Special New York Construction Laws That Protect Workers
New York Labor Law provides powerful protections for construction workers.
1. Labor Law § 240 (also known as “The Scaffold Law”)
This law protects workers injured in gravity-related accidents, such as:
- Falls from ladders or scaffolds
- Falling debris or materials
- Improperly secured equipment
If safety devices were missing or inadequate, property owners and general contractors can be held strictly liable, even if the worker was partially at fault. Strict liability in tort law means that a party is liable for the injury regardless of their intent or negligence.
2. Labor Law § 241(6)
This law requires construction sites to comply with specific Industrial Code safety regulations. Violations involving:
- Unsafe equipment
- Improper safety protections
- Hazardous site conditions
may support a lawsuit.
3. Labor Law § 200
This law addresses general workplace safety and applies when:
- A dangerous condition existed on the site, and
- The owner or contractor had control or notice of the hazard
Common Construction Accident Cases in NYC
In a city that’s always growing, it’s no surprise that construction accidents are frequent. You may be able to sue if your injury involved:
- Scaffold or ladder falls
- Falls from heights
- Falling objects
- Trench collapses
- Electrical accidents
- Machinery accidents
- Demolition accidents
- Crane accidents
Construction sites in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Long Island are fast-paced and high-risk. When safety rules are ignored, workers suffer serious injuries.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties may include:
- Property owners
- General contractors
- Subcontractors
- Equipment manufacturers
- Construction managers
However, you generally cannot sue your direct employer. Instead, you may sue other responsible parties involved in the project.
Time Limits Apply
As with most claims, New York law limits how long you have to file a lawsuit.
- Generally, construction accident lawsuits must be filed within three years of the accident.
- If a public entity is involved, shorter deadlines and Notice of Claim requirements will apply.
Delays can severely damage your case. Early investigation is critical.
Why Construction Accident Cases Are Complex
Construction cases usually involve many parties. These cases often require:
- Multiple insurance companies
- Site safety reports and OSHA records
- Contracts between contractors and owners
- Expert engineering testimony
- Aggressive defense attorneys
Preserving evidence quickly can make the difference between winning and losing.
When to Contact a Lawyer
If you were injured in a construction accident in NYC, speak with an attorney immediately.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Future lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
As an experienced New York construction accident attorney, Steven Louros, Esq. investigates construction sites, identifies all responsible parties, and fights for maximum compensation.
Why Choose the Law Office of Steven Louros for Your Case?
Multilingual Excellence:
- Native-speaking legal assistants from China and Korea
- Complete translation and interpretation services
- Cultural understanding that goes beyond language
- Community connections throughout NYC’s diverse neighborhoods
Comprehensive Legal Strategy:
- Immediate investigation and evidence preservation
- Relationships with medical specialists who understand cultural approaches to pain
- Expert witnesses who can counter insurance company arguments
- Aggressive negotiation backed by trial readiness
Available Languages:
- English
- 中文 (Mandarin Chinese)
- 廣東話 (Cantonese)
- 한국어 (Korean)
Contact Information:
Phone: (212) 481-5275
Email: Use the contact form found here
Address: 1261 Broadway, Suite 507
New York, NY 10001
Office Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: By appointment
What to Expect:
- Free initial consultation in your preferred language
- Honest assessment of your case’s strengths and challenges
- Clear explanation of your legal rights and options
- No pressure to hire us – the choice is always yours
- Immediate action plan if you decide to proceed
Call now for your free consultation: (212) 481-5275
Remember:
- You pay nothing unless we win your case
- All consultations are completely free
- We come to you if you’re unable to travel
- Your immigration status doesn’t affect your rights
- Time limits apply to filing claims
We fight to the end for clients across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island, and Long Island—providing personalized, results-driven legal care in the language you’re most comfortable speaking.
Legal Disclaimer: This content is the exclusive property of the Law Office of Steven Louros and is protected by copyright law. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or use of this material is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action. The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every personal injury case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. For specific legal guidance regarding your situation, please contact our office directly for a confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
The Law Office of Steven Louros has been serving New York City’s diverse communities with distinction, providing aggressive legal representation while respecting cultural values and overcoming language barriers. Our commitment to excellence and client service has made us the trusted choice for personal injury victims throughout NYC’s five boroughs and Long Island.
