If you’ve been injured in a construction accident in New York, it’s crucial to hire an experienced construction accident lawyer who understands the complexities of New York’s construction laws, including labor laws and personal injury claims. New York has some of the most robust worker protection laws in the country, but navigating these laws requires specialized legal knowledge.
Here’s a guide on how to find the right attorney for your construction accident case in New York:
1. Look for Attorneys Specializing in Construction Accidents
Construction accident cases often involve significant injuries, and the legal issues can be complicated. Attorneys who specialize in construction accidents will have experience with:
- New York Labor Law, including Section 240 (Scaffold Law) and Section 241(6), which offer protections for workers injured by falls or unsafe working conditions.
- Workers’ compensation claims and how they interact with third-party claims.
- Handling cases involving general contractors, subcontractors, property owners, and manufacturers of unsafe equipment.
2. Consider Local Law Firms with a Strong Track Record
You should look for law firms that are based in New York or have significant experience handling construction accident cases in the state. They will be familiar with New York-specific laws, local court procedures, and the parties typically involved in construction accidents.
3. Check for Experience with Major Construction Companies
Some of the best construction accident lawyers have worked on cases against major contractors or have experience dealing with large construction companies. These cases may involve negotiating with insurance companies, general contractors, and subcontractors, or even taking cases to trial if necessary.
4. Review Success Rate and Case Results
Look for law firms with a strong track record of success in handling construction accident cases, including those that involve serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and amputations. Reviewing case results or settlement amounts from previous clients can give you confidence in their ability to get results.
5. Free Consultation
Many construction accident lawyers offer free consultations to review your case and determine if you have a valid claim. Use this opportunity to ask about their experience with similar cases and to gauge whether you feel comfortable working with them.
6. Consider Contingency Fee Structure
Most construction accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. Be sure to discuss their fee structure during the consultation so that you understand any potential costs upfront.
7. Look for Attorneys with Trial Experience
While many cases settle before going to trial, some construction accident cases may require litigation. It’s important to choose a lawyer with trial experience, as insurance companies are more likely to offer a fair settlement if they know your lawyer is prepared to take the case to court if necessary.
8. Check for Reviews and Testimonials
Reading client reviews or testimonials can give you a sense of the attorney’s reputation and how they handle clients. Look for reviews that mention their experience with construction accidents or similar workplace injury cases.
Notable New York Construction Accident Lawyers/Firms:
- Hach & Rose, LLP
A prominent firm in New York City, Hach & Rose specializes in personal injury and construction accident cases. They have handled a wide range of injury claims involving unsafe work conditions, falls, heavy equipment accidents, and more. - The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C.
Founded by David Perecman, this firm has been representing construction workers in New York for over 35 years. They are known for handling complex personal injury cases, including those involving construction site accidents. - Cellino & Barnes
With a large legal team and years of experience, Cellino & Barnes handles all kinds of personal injury cases, including serious injuries on construction sites. - Kramer, Dillof, Livingston & Moore
Known for handling high-profile cases, this law firm has substantial experience in construction accident claims and personal injury litigation in New York City. - The Law Office of Jay S. Knispel, LLC
A respected firm in Brooklyn, New York, with a track record of successfully representing workers injured in construction accidents.
Common Types of Construction Accidents:
- Falls from heights (e.g., scaffolding, ladders, roofs)
- Being struck by falling objects
- Construction equipment accidents (e.g., cranes, bulldozers, forklifts)
- Trench collapses
- Electrical accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Accidents caused by defective machinery or tools
What to Expect from Your Lawyer:
- Investigation: The lawyer will investigate the accident site, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and possibly work with experts to determine the cause of the accident.
- Medical Records & Documentation: You will need to provide medical records and documentation to support your claim. Your lawyer may also work with medical experts to evaluate the severity of your injuries and potential long-term impacts.
- Negotiation & Settlement: The lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved to seek a fair settlement. If a settlement can’t be reached, they will take the case to trial.
Questions to Ask During a Free Consultation:
- How many construction accident cases have you handled, and what were the results?
- How familiar are you with New York Labor Laws (specifically Sections 240 and 241)?
- What is your experience with insurance companies and contractors in these types of cases?
- What steps will you take to investigate my case?
- What are your fees, and how are they structured?
Conclusion:
Finding the right New York construction accident lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Whether you’ve been injured on a large construction project or a smaller site, a skilled attorney will guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you need further assistance or help connecting with a specific attorney, feel free to ask!
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