Scaffolding accidents are a serious threat to construction workers and pedestrians in New York City. At The Case Handler, we understand the devastating consequences these accidents can have, leaving victims with life-changing injuries and facing immense financial burdens.
If you've been injured in a scaffolding accident in NYC, our experienced construction accident attorneys are here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Scaffolding Accidents Happen
Scaffolding collapses, falls from heights, and falling objects from scaffolding are all too common occurrences on NYC construction sites. These accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Negligent assembly or inspection
- Failure to provide proper safety equipment
- Lack of proper training
- Ignoring weather conditions
- Rushing deadlines
Understanding Scaffolding and Your Rights After a Scaffolding Accident
At The Case Handler, we understand that working on or around scaffolding can be dangerous. Scaffolding accidents are a serious concern in the construction industry, and unfortunately, they happen all too often.
We are dedicated to helping you understand your rights if you are injured on the job. Here is an overview of common scaffolding types and what to do if you've been injured in a scaffolding accident in New York City.
Types of Scaffolding
- Modular or Systemic Scaffolding: This is the most common type of scaffolding due to its ease of use and adjustability. It's constructed with interlocking metal components that can be configured to various heights and weight capacities.
- Tubular Scaffolding: An older design, tubular scaffolding uses metal tubes and clamps for assembly. While less common today, it can be susceptible to failure if not properly assembled and inspected. Missing guardrails, toe boards, or improperly secured tubes and clamps are safety hazards associated with tubular scaffolding.
- Rolling Scaffolding: These portable scaffolds are often used for smaller construction jobs. However, if the wheel locks or caster brakes aren't properly secured, they can roll away and cause injuries.
- Pole Scaffolding: Designed for light-duty tasks like painting or carpentry, pole scaffolds are typically single-sided and lean against a wall or structure for support.
- Wood or Bamboo Scaffolding: While steel is the most common material for scaffolding in North America, some companies may use wood or bamboo. These alternative materials require more frequent inspections to ensure they are free of cracks, splits, or other defects that could compromise their integrity.
Supported vs. Suspended Scaffolding
- Supported Scaffolding: These structures have rigid load-bearing components like poles, legs, frames, hoists, or outriggers to support the platforms.
- Suspended Scaffolding: These platforms hang from building roofs using ropes or cables and other non-rigid support systems.
Scissor Lifts and Vertical Lifts
While not technically classified as scaffolding, OSHA regulations consider scissor lifts and vertical lifts to be scaffolds in certain situations. Incidents involving lifts can also open you up to additional risks and potential injuries if not secured and trained properly.
Who Can Be Liable in a Scaffolding Accident?
Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, several parties could be held liable for a scaffolding accident, including:
- General contractors: The general contractor is responsible for ensuring the overall safety of the construction site, including the proper assembly, inspection, and use of scaffolding.
- Subcontractors: Subcontractors who are specifically responsible for erecting or dismantling scaffolding can be held liable for negligence if they fail to follow safety protocols or use faulty equipment.
- Scaffolding companies: Companies that provide or assemble scaffolding may be liable if they supply faulty equipment, fail to properly maintain their equipment, or don't provide adequate training to workers on safe use.
- Property owners: In some cases, property owners may be held responsible for scaffolding accidents if they fail to maintain the premises in a safe condition or hire unqualified contractors.
Pedestrians Injured by Scaffolding Accidents
While construction workers are at the highest risk of scaffolding accidents, pedestrians can also be severely injured by falling debris or collapsing structures. If you were struck by a falling object or injured by a scaffolding collapse as a pedestrian, you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim. The responsible party could be the general contractor, a subcontractor, the scaffolding company, or even the property owner, depending on the specific cause of the accident.
Don't Wait to Get Help
There are strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims in New York. Contact The Case Handler today for a free consultation to discuss your scaffolding accident and learn about your legal options. We are here to help you through this difficult time and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Trust The Case Handler With Your Scaffolding Accident Case
At The Case Handler, we understand that the aftermath of a scaffolding accident can be overwhelming. You're likely facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. The last thing you need is to navigate the complexities of the legal system on your own.
Let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact The Case Handler today. We are here to help you through this difficult time.
