Demolition Injury Attorney NYC

Construction accident victims often have a long road to recovery that can take a financial and emotional toll on families and workers injured. But when a demolition accident is caused by someone else’s negligence, coping can be even more difficult.

Beyond recovery concerns, medical bills and lost wages make matters even more complicated. This is why our New York demolition accident attorneys offer legal assistance on a contingency fee basis, so we only get paid if your settlement is secured and you can focus on getting better.

At Richman Law Firm PLLC, we have represented many injured construction workers in demolition accident cases. We know the dangers and risks in the construction industry, and we fight hard to help you recover compensation. Contact us for a free consultation.

Compensation in Demolition Accident

Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help victims seek compensation for injuries and hold responsible parties accountable. Here are the damages you might be able to recover:

Medical

Demolition accidents often require extensive medical treatment. Compensation can cover current and future medical expenses, including emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, ongoing rehabilitation and physical therapy, prescription medications, and medical equipment.

Lost Wages

If, for some reason, you can’t return to work after your accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for lost wages. Construction accident claims can include current lost income, future lost earning capacity, and benefits and bonuses you would have received.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond the physical injuries, demolition accidents can cause emotional distress and reduced quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering addresses these non-economic damages.

Wrongful death

In the unfortunate event of fatal demolition accidents, victims’ families might be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation. While nothing can reverse the pain and suffering losing a loved one can cause, our NYC demolition accident attorney, Scott Richman, works his hardest to provide families with some form of relief.

Legal Options After Construction Accidents

Our construction accident attorneys can help you explore your options if you’ve suffered injuries in a demolition accident. Here are likely options moving forward:

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Personal injury claims can provide more comprehensive compensation than workers’ compensation claims. For instance, they allow you to seek damages for pain and suffering, which is not covered by workers’ comp.

Third-Party Claims

In some cases, other parties besides your employer may be liable for your injuries. Third-party claims can provide additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits. Some examples of third parties that may be liable include:

Equipment manufacturers: The manufacturer may be liable if tools were faulty and contributed to your accident.

Subcontractors: If another company on the site caused your injury, you may have a claim against them.

Property owners: In some cases, property owners can be liable for the conditions of the demolition site.

Common Demolition Accidents

Injuries sustained on a job site can have serious legal and medical implications. Here are some of the most common types of demolition accidents:

Falling Objects

One of the biggest risks in demolition work is falling objects. As structures are being torn down, debris, tools, and building materials can fall from heights and hit workers below. These accidents can cause head trauma, broken bones, or even fatal injuries.

Structural Collapses

Structural collapses can happen unexpectedly during demolition. When rafters and timbers are removed too soon or incorrectly, entire sections of a building can come down. These collapses can trap construction workers under rubble, causing crushing injuries, suffocation, and even death.

Construction Site Equipment Failure

Demolition work relies on heavy machinery and specialized equipment. When this equipment fails due to poor maintenance, operator error, or manufacturing defects, it can cause devastating accidents. From crane collapses to excavator rollovers, accidents involving heavy machinery often result in serious injuries or fatalities.

New York Labor Laws and Demolition Safety Regulations

New York Labor Laws

New York Labor Laws 200, 240, and 241 protect workers in the construction and demolition industry. These laws impose liability on property owners and contractors for keeping work sites safe and providing proper safety equipment.

Scaffolding Law (Labor Law 240)

Also known as the “Scaffold Law,” New York Labor Law 240 is relevant to demolition work. This law requires property owners and contractors to protect workers at heights on construction sites, including using safety harnesses, secure scaffolding, and other fall protection.

Property Owners and Contractors

Under New York law, property owners and contractors have a duty to keep the work site safe and free of defective equipment. This means providing training, ensuring all machinery and tools are in good working order, implementing and enforcing safety protocols, running regular safety inspections, and addressing hazards promptly. Failing to meet these duties can result in penalties and liability if an accident occurs.

Contact Our NYC Construction Accident Lawyers

Finding a lawyer for demolition injuries in New York City can be like finding a needle in a haystack. But this is where our law firm can give you an edge—we also have experience in construction matters. If you have been injured in construction and workers’ compensation is not enough, our team of New York demolition accident attorneys knows these cases.

We’ve represented many injured workers and their families. Take advantage of our experience with New York labor laws. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if I’m injured in a demolition accident?

Once you’re safe, document the accident if possible, report it to your supervisor, and contact an NYC demolition accident lawyer. Our New York construction accident lawyers are committed to defending the rights of injured workers and can help you pursue compensation.

What are the most common injuries in demolition accidents?

Demolition workers frequently suffer traumatic injuries from falling objects and debris, crush injuries from structural collapses, respiratory damage from dust and toxic materials, and burns. These injuries often require immediate medical attention and extensive treatment, leading to substantial medical expenses.

What compensation can construction accident victims recover?

Compensation varies based on the accident but may include full medical expenses (past and future), complete lost wages and loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, disability accommodations, and loss of quality of life.

How do I get started with a demolition accident claim?

Our construction accident attorneys offer a free case review. During this meeting, we may evaluate the accident details, explain your rights under New York construction laws, outline potential compensation sources, and recommend next steps.

How long do I have to file a demolition accident lawsuit in New York?

Time limits vary depending on whom you’re suing. Claims against private property owners or construction companies generally must be filed within three years of the accident. However, claims against New York City or other government entities have much shorter deadlines—often just 90 days to file a notice of claim. This is why contacting a demolition injury attorney immediately is crucial to protect your rights.