Scaffold accidents are among the most dangerous construction site incidents in New York. Falls from scaffolds, collapsing platforms, and falling materials often result in catastrophic injuries that change workers’ lives forever. If you were injured in a scaffold accident, you may be entitled to compensation beyond workers’ compensation under New York law.
Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C. represents injured construction workers throughout New York in scaffold accident and fall-from-height cases. Consultations are free, and there is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.
No Fee Unless We Win
What Is a Scaffold Accident?
A scaffold accident occurs when a worker is injured while working on or around a scaffold or elevated platform. These accidents are often caused by unsafe equipment, lack of fall protection, or failure to follow safety regulations. Because construction work frequently involves working at dangerous heights, scaffold accidents tend to result in serious or fatal injuries.
Common Causes of Scaffold Accidents
Scaffold accidents often occur due to preventable safety failures, including:
- Falls from unsecured or unstable scaffolds
- Collapsing or improperly assembled scaffolding
- Missing guardrails or safety harnesses
- Slippery or uneven platforms
- Falling tools, debris, or construction materials
- Lack of proper supervision or safety training
When proper safety equipment is not provided, responsible parties may be held legally accountable.
Injuries Commonly Caused by Scaffold Accidents
Scaffold accidents frequently result in severe injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and complex fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Fatal injuries
These injuries often require long-term medical care and may prevent workers from returning to their jobs.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Scaffold Accident?
Unlike workers’ compensation claims, scaffold accident cases may allow injured workers to pursue claims against third parties, including:
- Property owners
- General contractors
- Construction managers
- Other contractors responsible for site safety
Employers are usually protected by workers’ compensation laws, but owners and contractors who control the worksite may be held liable for safety violations.
How New York’s Scaffold Law (Labor Law 240) Protects Injured Workers
New York Labor Law §240 — commonly known as the Scaffold Law — provides powerful protections for construction workers injured in elevation-related accidents. The law requires property owners and contractors to provide proper safety devices to protect workers from falls and falling objects.
Under Labor Law 240, responsible parties may be held strictly liable, meaning an injured worker does not need to prove negligence. Even if the worker was partially at fault, a violation of the law may still result in liability.
👉 Learn more about your rights under
New York Scaffold Law (Labor Law 240)
What Compensation Can Injured Scaffold Workers Recover?
A successful scaffold accident claim may allow injured workers to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future medical care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
These damages are not available through workers’ compensation alone, which is why scaffold accident claims are so important.
If you were injured in a fall from a scaffold, speaking with a scaffold accident lawyer as soon as possible can help protect your rights and preserve critical evidence.
What Should You Do After a Scaffold Accident?
If you are injured in a scaffold accident, it is important to:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Report the accident to your supervisor
- Document the accident scene if possible
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies
- Speak with a construction accident lawyer as soon as possible
Early legal action can help preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Why Choose Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C.?
Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C. represents injured construction workers in complex scaffold accident and Labor Law cases throughout New York. We understand how aggressively these claims are defended and how to build cases that hold negligent property owners and contractors accountable.
Consultations are free, and you pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.
If you or a loved one was injured in a scaffold accident, do not assume workers’ compensation is your only option. New York law may provide powerful legal protections.
Contact Berkowitz & Weitz Law today for a free consultation.