Construction Accidents in New York: What Injured Workers Need to Know
October 22, 2025
Construction work is the backbone of New York’s growth — building homes, offices, and infrastructure that keep the city moving. But behind every project lies serious risk.
Every year, hundreds of construction workers suffer life-changing injuries due to unsafe working conditions, equipment failures, or negligence on job sites. Understanding your rights under New York personal injury law is the first step toward securing the medical care and financial recovery you deserve.
Common Types of Construction Accidents
Construction sites are fast-paced and full of potential hazards. Some of the most common causes of serious injuries include:
- Falls from heights (scaffolds, ladders, roofs)
- Falling objects such as tools or building materials
- Electrocutions from exposed wiring or faulty electrical systems
- Trench collapses and structural failures
- Machinery and equipment accidents
- Lack of proper safety gear or supervision
When these accidents happen because of unsafe conditions or violations of safety standards, the responsible parties can be held legally accountable.
Who Can Be Held Liable
In New York, construction accidents often involve more than just the worker’s employer. Depending on the circumstances, liability may rest with:
- General contractors or subcontractors who fail to follow safety protocols
- Property owners who neglect to maintain safe job sites
- Equipment manufacturers if a tool or machine is defective
- Construction management companies overseeing unsafe operations
Each case is unique, and identifying every responsible party is crucial to securing maximum compensation.
Legal Protections for Construction Workers
New York has some of the strongest worker safety laws in the country. These laws allow injured workers to pursue personal injury claims in addition to workers’ compensation, helping them recover full damages such as pain and suffering, future lost wages, and medical expenses.
Key protections include:
- Labor Law §200 – Requires employers and owners to maintain safe working conditions.
- Labor Law §240 (The Scaffold Law) – Holds owners and contractors strictly liable for injuries caused by falls from heights or falling objects.
- Labor Law §241(6) – Ensures compliance with specific safety regulations on construction sites.
If your injury resulted from a violation of any of these laws, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
What to Do After a Construction Accident
If you’ve been injured on the job, take the following steps right away:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the incident to your supervisor or site manager.
- Document everything – take photos, gather witness names, and keep your medical records.
- Avoid signing any insurance documents without legal advice.
- Consult a personal injury attorney experienced in New York construction accident law.
Taking these actions can make a major difference in protecting your rights and strengthening your claim.
How an Attorney Can Help
A construction accident attorney can:
- Investigate the cause of your injury
- Identify all liable parties
- Gather critical evidence and expert testimony
- Handle insurance negotiations
- Pursue maximum compensation through settlement or trial
At LFK Law Practice, P.C., we represent injured construction workers across New York. Our team is dedicated to protecting workers’ rights, ensuring that negligent companies and contractors are held accountable, and helping you move forward after an accident.
Resources
- New York State Department of Labor – Construction Safety
- OSHA Construction Industry Guidelines
- Workers’ Compensation Board of New York
Need Legal Help After a Construction Accident?
If you’ve been injured while working on a construction site, don’t wait to get the help you need.
Contact LFK Law Practice, P.C. today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you get the compensation you deserve.