New York Demolition Accident Lawyer
Across the United States, construction and demolition are some of the most dangerous industries for workers, and New York is no exception. Construction and demolition workers risk their lives daily to build New York—in 2021, the construction accident fatality rate increased by 60 percent in New York City and nine percent statewide.
Demolition accidents take a serious physical, emotional, and financial toll on workers and their families, and it is important for workers to know that they have rights after an accident. Under New York law, demolition accident victims may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and other losses. At Lever & Ecker, PLLC, our New York construction accident lawyers have years of experience handling construction and demolition injury cases, and we are ready to guide you and your family through the legal process so you can focus on recovery.
I highly recommend Lever & Ecker, especially Daniel Ecker, for anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. Throughout my case, they were incredibly attentive and made the entire process straightforward, even as I was going through the healing process. Their clear communication, professionalism, and genuine care for my situation gave me peace of mind. Most importantly, they were able to secure the compensation I deserved. I’m truly grateful for their support and expertise!
Fira Elegudova
Why Demolition Work Is So Dangerous on New York Construction Sites
Demolition work is hazardous by nature. With confined spaces, falling debris, structural instability, and hazardous materials often present, there are constant opportunities for workers to become injured unexpectedly. In New York City, the fast pace and high-pressure conditions on many construction sites also contribute to the danger. Many construction accidents are caused by a general lack of safety planning, contractor shortcuts, outdated equipment, and a failure to follow OSHA standards.
Most fatal accidents that occur during building demolition work are falls, with falling objects and debris also accounting for many deaths. According to construction accidents by Japan’s National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, the greatest number of fatal accidents on demolition sites were caused by falls and collapsing walls.
Common Injuries in Demolition Accidents
Some of the most common injuries workers suffer in demolition site accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Crush injuries
- Amputations
- Internal injuries
- Broken bones
- Permanent disability
- Emotional trauma/PTSD
Who Is Liable for a Demolition Accident?
In demolition accident cases, workers generally cannot sue their own employers—that is what workers’ compensation benefits are for. However, injured workers may be able to file a lawsuit against the property owners, general contractors, or equipment manufacturers who contributed to their injury.
Third-Party Liability in Construction Accidents
Workers’ compensation benefits generally cover medical expenses and some of the victim’s lost wages. A personal injury lawsuit, however, allows construction workers injured in a demolition accident to recover full lost wages and other damages not available through workers’ compensation, such as compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional distress. These lawsuits are filed against third parties, like construction site owners, managers, or general contractors, whose negligence contributed to the accident. A third-party action is separate from any claim for workers’ compensation benefits you may file.
Your Legal Rights as a New York Worker
New York Labor Law § 200, 240, and 241 impose non-delegable duties on owners, contractors, and their agents to maintain safe work environments on construction and demolition sites.
- Labor Law § 200 requires New York employers to adequately construct and operate demolition sites to protect the health and safety of workers.
- Labor Law § 240 requires scaffolding, pulleys, and other devices on construction and demolition sites to be constructed and operated properly to protect workers.
- Labor Law § 241 requires all contractors and property owners to meet specific requirements when demolishing buildings or performing excavation work.
If you have been injured in a demolition accident in New York, it is crucial to act quickly–there are legal guidelines for filing personal injury lawsuits. In New York, the statute of limitations for filing an injury lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident, but there are some exceptions. In cases of wrongful death, victims’ families have just two years to file a lawsuit. Lawsuits against government entities, such as cities or towns, require victims to file a notice of claim within 90 days, then file a lawsuit within one year and 90 days.
How Lever & Ecker, PLLC Can Help You
After being injured in a demolition accident, you may feel overwhelmed by medical bills, physical pain, and the inability to work. At Lever & Ecker, our attorneys are motivated by helping injured people get back on their feet. We genuinely care about making a difference in our clients’ lives, so we take personal injury cases very personally. Our attorneys will provide the resources you need to make the right legal decisions and get the right medical care. We offer free consultations and personalized representation with no upfront fees.
Decades of Combined Experience Handling Serious Injury Cases
As an award-winning personal injury practice in New York, Lever & Ecker, PLLC, takes a hands-on approach to every client’s matter, guiding them through each step of the legal process. Our skilled New York attorneys have over 70 years of combined personal injury law experience, and provide top-tier legal representation with an open line of communication to every client.
Proven Results in Construction Injury Cases
Lever & Ecker takes an aggressive approach to securing compensation–we are always prepared to go to trial if necessary. Insurance companies do not play fair, so we are here to level the playing field. Over the years, our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdict awards for injured workers in New York. Recently, we recovered a $1.5 million settlement for a client who fell from an elevated platform on a job site, causing hip and wrist fractures that required surgery. Lever & Ecker successfully defeated the defense’s arguments and obtained a substantial settlement without a trial.
“Lever and Ecker did a great job settling my case in spite of numerous obstacles presented by the insurance company. Dan fought through them and settled my case with a suitable amount that I was happy with. I would highly recommend the Lever and Ecker team if you have a personal injury.” – Christian Martinez
What To Do After a Demolition Site Injury in New York
After being injured on a demolition site, take the following steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.
- Seek medical attention, even if you do not believe your injuries are serious.
- Report the injury to your employer and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
- Document the scene of the accident and your injuries.
- If possible, preserve evidence such as equipment involved, photos of the site, and contact info of coworkers—this may help establish third-party negligence later.
- Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal counsel.
- Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Speak With a New York Demolition Accident Lawyer Today
At Lever & Ecker, our skilled New York demolition accident lawyers are dedicated to fighting for injured workers and their families. With offices in White Plains, the Bronx, and Queens, we help injured clients throughout New York State, including all five boroughs of New York City, all of Westchester County, and the surrounding counties. We make home and hospital visits, so if you cannot come to us, we will come to you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New York demolition accident, contact Lever & Ecker online or by calling one of our offices for a free consultation.
- White Plains: (914) 288-9191
- Bronx: (718) 933-3632
- Queens: (347) 391-6337
* Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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- New York Personal Injury
- New York Construction Accidents
- Demolition Accidents on Construction Sites
- Electrocution Accidents on Construction Sites
- Excavation & Trench Collapses
- Fall Accidents on Construction Sites
- Hit by Falling Object on Construction Site
- Fatal Accidents on Construction Sites
- Saw Blade & Cutting Accidents
- How Long to File a Construction Accident Lawsuit
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