NYC Demolition Accidents Attorney

Demolition is one of the most dangerous jobs in New York City construction. Demolition accidents can cause permanent injuries and leave construction workers with medical bills, lost wages, and an uncertain future. If you or a loved one was injured in a demolition accident, you need New York demolition accident attorneys who offer skilled legal assistance, take on the costs of the lawsuit and only get paid when your settlement is secured.

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 can help you recover compensation. Contact us for a free consultation.

Demolition Accidents

Demolition work has many potential hazards that can cause serious injuries. 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 construction site accidents can cause head trauma, broken bones, or even fatal accidents.

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 construction accidents. From crane collapses to excavator rollovers, accidents involving heavy machinery often result in serious injuries or fatalities.

Exposure to Hazardous Materials

Many older buildings contain hazardous materials like asbestos. Improper handling or inadequate protection during demolition can expose demolition workers to these substances, causing long-term health issues like respiratory diseases and cancer.

New York Labor Laws and Demolition Safety

New York City and New York State have some of the strictest labor laws in the country for high-risk industries like construction. Here are the most relevant:

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 approved 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 serious penalties and liability if an accident occurs.

Compensation in Demolition Accident

Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help victims seek compensation for injuries and hold responsible parties accountable. Our New York demolition accident attorneys work on a fee contingency plan for every construction accident case, so we only get paid if we win your case. Here are the damages we 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. Medical compensation should also include any expected future medical expenses related to the injuries sustained.

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 revert 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 the equipment was 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.

Contact Our NYC Construction Accident Lawyers

If you have been injured in a demolition accident, don’t wait to get legal help. The construction industry is filled with dangerous jobs, but know you have someone in your corner.

Our team of New York demolition accident attorneys knows these cases, and 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 and medically treated, document the accident if possible, report it to your supervisor, and contact a NYC demolition accident lawyer. Our New York construction accident lawyers are 100% committed to defending the rights of injured workers and can help you pursue compensation.

What if my employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance?

If your employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance, you may sue them directly for your injuries. New York also has a special fund to provide benefits to workers whose employers are uninsured. Our NYC personal injury lawyers can explore all your options.

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

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York is three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to contact a construction accident lawyer right away to make sure you don’t miss any deadlines.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Under New York’s comparative negligence law, you may still recover damages if you were partially at fault. However,  your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our NYC construction accident lawyers can help you file a construction claim.