Ladder accidents on New York City construction sites are tragically common, and sadly, they often lead to severe and life-altering injuries. If you've been hurt in a ladder fall due to unsafe conditions, defective equipment, or employer negligence, you have the right to seek justice and significant compensation. At Hach & Rose, LLP, our experienced NYC ladder accident lawyers are dedicated to fighting for injured construction workers across New York.
For nearly 25 years, our firm has successfully represented victims, securing over one billion dollars in compensation for those who have suffered due to workplace negligence. We understand the complex legal landscape surrounding construction site injuries, especially those involving falls, and we are prepared to advocate for your rights and secure the maximum financial recovery you deserve.
[dynamic-toc]Why Choose Hach & Rose, LLP After a NYC Ladder Accident?
Choosing the right legal team is an important decision after a devastating ladder accident. Hach & Rose, LLP, offers unparalleled experience, a history of significant results, and unwavering client commitment.
Proven Results for Injured Workers
Our firm has a strong track record of achieving multimillion-dollar outcomes for construction accident victims, including those injured in ladder falls. Our results, including a $6 million verdict for a construction worker injured in a ladder fall, demonstrate our ability to secure substantial compensation. We are not afraid to take on large construction companies and their insurers, consistently turning inadequate settlement offers into meaningful verdicts through aggressive litigation.
Solid Experience Applying New York Labor Law Section 240
Ladder accidents frequently fall under the protection of New York Labor Law Section 240, often called the "Scaffold Law." This critical statute provides unique protection for workers who suffer fall injuries. It holds property owners and general contractors strictly liable for accidents caused by the failure to provide proper safety devices, such as safe ladders, scaffolding, or fall protection.
Our NYC ladder accident attorneys possess deep knowledge of this law and other relevant statutes, meticulously building cases to ensure all liable parties are held accountable.
Client-Focused Approach and Trial Readiness
We pride ourselves on diligence, integrity, and a strong commitment to every client. Each case receives personalized attention, tailored legal guidance, and consistent communication. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, a reputation that often compels insurance companies to offer better settlements. Our readiness to litigate ensures we are always prepared to fight aggressively for you in court.
No Fee Unless We Win
Understanding the financial burden an injury can impose, Hach & Rose, LLP, operates on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront fees, and we only collect a fee if we successfully secure a settlement or verdict award for your case.
Free and Confidential Consultation
We offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your NYC ladder accident case. This is an opportunity to understand your legal rights and options without any financial commitment. Call us at (212) 779-0057 today.
Common Causes of Ladder Accidents on NYC Construction Sites
Ladder accidents are often preventable and frequently stem from negligence or violations of safety standards. Our investigations reveal common contributing factors:
Defective or Damaged Ladders
Ladders that are old, broken, missing parts, or structurally unsound pose a significant risk. Property owners and contractors are responsible for providing safe, well-maintained equipment.
Improper Ladder Placement or Setup
Ladders placed on uneven surfaces, unsecured at the top or bottom, or set up at an incorrect angle (too steep or too shallow) are prone to slipping, tipping, or collapsing.
Inadequate Training or Supervision
Workers may not receive proper training on how to safely use, inspect, or set up ladders. Lack of adequate supervision can also lead to unsafe practices.
Overloaded Ladders
Using a ladder to support excessive weight, beyond its rated capacity, can cause it to break or collapse.
Missing Safety Devices
Failing to provide or use necessary fall protection, such as harnesses, guardrails, or safety nets, can turn a minor slip into a catastrophic fall.
Wet or Slippery Surfaces
Rain, spills, or other wet conditions on ladder rungs or the ground beneath can cause a ladder or worker to slip. Third parties may be liable for causing dangerous surfaces that lead to injuries.
Unsafe Work Practices
Workers "walking" a ladder, overreaching, or carrying heavy loads while climbing can lead to instability and falls.
If your ladder accident was due to any of these or other negligent actions, our NYC ladder accident law firm can help you determine liability and pursue compensation.
Understanding New York Labor Law Section 240 and Ladder Falls
New York Labor Law Section 240 is paramount in ladder accident cases. This law, often referred to as the "Scaffold Law," protects workers from “gravity-related” falling hazards. It places absolute liability on property owners and general contractors for injuries sustained when workers fall from heights or are struck by falling objects, provided the accident is a direct result of a failure to provide proper safety devices or the inadequacy of those devices.
This means that even if a worker is partially at fault for their fall, they may still be able to recover full compensation under Labor Law 240, as long as the owner or contractor failed in their duty to provide adequate safety equipment. Our attorneys are highly skilled in applying this complex law to maximize recovery for our clients. Other relevant laws include:
- New York Labor Law Section 241(6): Requires contractors and owners to ensure construction areas provide reasonable and adequate protection for workers, often through compliance with specific industrial code rules.
- New York Labor Law Section 200: This general workplace safety statute requires owners and contractors to provide a safe workplace and applies when they have control over the work or premises and notice of a dangerous condition.
Life-Altering Injuries Our NYC Ladder Accident Lawyers Handle
Falls from ladders, even from relatively low heights, can result in severe, life-altering injuries due to the impact and force involved. Our firm is dedicated to securing compensation for the full extent of your damages, which often include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Falls can cause concussions, contusions, or severe TBIs, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, speech difficulties, and long-term care needs.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, permanent disability, chronic pain, and significant loss of mobility and independence.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Severe fractures, especially to the limbs, pelvis, or spine, often require multiple surgeries, extensive physical therapy, and may lead to permanent pain or limited mobility.
- Internal Organ Damage: The impact from a fall can cause internal bleeding, organ rupture, or other life-threatening internal injuries requiring emergency surgery.
- Amputations: In some severe cases, crushing injuries or severe trauma can necessitate the amputation of a limb.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: Falls can result in deep lacerations, burns (if electricity is involved), or other injuries leading to permanent scarring or disfigurement.
These injuries demand extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and can lead to significant lost wages and diminished earning capacity. Our NYC ladder accident lawyers work to ensure that all current and future medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering are fully accounted for in your claim.
How to Maximize Compensation for Your Ladder Accident Claim
To maximize the financial recovery for your ladder accident claim, it's crucial to take these specific steps and have skilled legal representation.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health is the priority. Get evaluated by a medical professional immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Timely medical documentation is also critical evidence for your claim.
Report the Accident Promptly
Notify your supervisor and ensure the ladder accident is formally documented in an incident report. This is essential for both workers' compensation and personal injury claims.
Preserve Evidence at the Scene
If safely possible, take photos or videos of the ladder, the accident scene, any hazardous conditions (e.g., uneven ground, debris), and your visible injuries. Collect contact information for witnesses.
Document All Expenses
Keep meticulous records of all medical bills, prescription costs, rehabilitation expenses, transportation to appointments, and any proof of lost wages.
Do Not Speak to Insurance Companies Alone
Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim or make you say things that could harm your case. Direct all communications from insurance companies to your legal team. Never give a recorded statement or sign documents without consulting your attorney.
Contact Our Skilled NYC Ladder Accident Lawyers Immediately
After receiving medical care, the most important step is to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Our attorneys will guide you through every stage, ensuring all recovery opportunities are pursued and your rights are fully protected.
How Hach & Rose, LLP, Can Help You After an NYC Ladder Fall
Navigating the legal aftermath of a ladder accident can be complicated. At Hach & Rose, LLP, we manage every aspect of your ladder accident injury claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
We will:
- Thoroughly Investigate Your Case: We’ll uncover all liable parties, including property owners, general contractors, equipment manufacturers, and other third parties.
- Gather Critical Evidence: We can collect accident reports, witness statements, medical records, photographs, video footage, maintenance logs, and expert testimony.
- Manage All Communications: We will handle interactions and negotiations with all insurance companies.
- Ensure Legal Deadlines Are Met: We’ll be responsible for navigating strict statutes of limitations and other critical deadlines for both personal injury lawsuits and workers' compensation claims.
- Fight for Maximum Compensation: We will aggressively pursue the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages through settlement negotiations or tenacious litigation.
- Provide Compassionate Guidance: We always offer sound, honest, and empathetic legal representation, keeping you informed and supported every step of the way.
Attempting to handle these complex legal processes alone can jeopardize your financial recovery and delay your healing. Trust our team to protect your interests and fight for the most compensation possible in your situation.
NYC Ladder Accident FAQs
Can I still file a lawsuit if I am already receiving workers' compensation benefits?
Yes, in many ladder accident cases, you can pursue both a workers' compensation claim and a personal injury lawsuit. Workers' compensation provides benefits for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault, but it typically prevents you from suing your direct employer. A personal injury lawsuit, however, can be filed against a negligent third party, such as the property owner, general contractor, or ladder manufacturer, to recover a broader range of damages, including pain and suffering.
How long do I have to file a ladder accident claim in New York?
There are strict statutes of limitations for filing personal injury claims in New York. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is typically two years from the date of death. However, other specific deadlines may apply, especially for claims against government entities or for workers' compensation. It is critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met and your rights are protected.
What types of damages can I recover in a ladder accident lawsuit?
If your lawsuit is successful, you may be able to recover various types of damages. These include economic damages such as medical expenses (past and future), lost wages (past and future), and rehabilitation costs. You can also seek non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement. In wrongful death cases, families can seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship.
What if I'm an undocumented worker injured in a ladder accident?
In New York, your immigration status does not prevent you from pursuing a personal injury claim for a construction accident, including a ladder accident. New York law protects all workers who are injured due to negligence, regardless of their immigration status. Our firm has experience representing undocumented laborers and has Spanish-speaking staff ready to assist you in understanding your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Hach & Rose, LLP: Your NYC Ladder Accident Lawyer
A ladder accident on a construction site can instantly change your life, leading to severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income. You need a knowledgeable and dedicated legal team to advocate for your rights and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to.
At Hach & Rose, LLP, our mission is to help NYC ladder accident victims rebuild their lives. We manage every detail of your case, from initial investigation to settlement or trial, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being. With our proven track record, deep legal experience, and unwavering commitment to client success, you'll have the confidence of knowing your claim is in highly capable hands.
Take the first step toward justice. Do not delay. Contact Hach & Rose, LLP, today for a free and confidential consultation with an experienced NYC ladder accident lawyer. Call us now at (212) 779-0057 or complete our secure online contact form. Let us fight to secure the compensation and justice you deserve.