Contact the Porter Law Group today at (833)-PORTER9 for a no-obligation, free consultation. We operate on a contingency-fee basis, so you don't pay anything unless you win!
Testimonials
Cancer Diagnosis Hit Our Family Hard
"My cancer diagnosis hit our family hard. Finding out that I was misdiagned made matters worse. Contacting Porter Law Group was my saving grace. From the start, Mike was at my side reassuring me that he would be there for support and guidance. I felt like family. The firm worked hard for my case and was very successful without going to court. I wouldn't have wanted any other team on my side besides Porter Law! Very professional, friendly and very highly regarded in the legal community. Top notch group." - Chriss S.
Excellent Lawyer
"I am extremely fortunate that Porter Law Group took my case after suffering a traumatic brain injury following a serious car accident. For over three years of medical rehabilitation and legal proceedings I worked with the lawyers and staff at the firm. They are a truly solid, forthright, and professional team. In the end, my case progressed to an eight-day civil trial. During the lead-up and long days of the trial itself, I saw firsthand what an outstanding lawyer and person Eric Nordby is. He brought an adept and thorough analytical mind, a principled work ethic, and personal dedication to my case. Eric is a highly skilled negotiator who operates calmly while under pressure. My family and I are privileged to have benefited from Eric’s expertise throughout our experience with the firm, which led to over a million dollars in financial compensation. I cannot recommend him more highly." - Matt H.
Professionalism Exemplified
"Michael represented our family in a medical malpractice suit. From the first consultation to the ultimate award, Michael and his firm handled the case with compassion, understanding and professionalism. He won the case and we were very satisfied with the award. I would unequivocally recommend Michael Porter as a medical malpractice attorney." - Mary G.

Construction Accident Lawyers in New York: Protecting Injured Workers' Rights

If you've been seriously injured in a New York construction accident, you need an experienced construction accident lawyer to help you recover the maximum compensation possible. At Porter Law Group, our construction worker injury attorneys have secured millions for workers facing permanent disabilities, lost wages, and catastrophic injuries caused by negligence. Construction sites across New York State pose daily risks and when accidents happen, the consequences can be life-changing.

Construction Site Accident in New York?

CONTACT US
View Client Testimonials

Our Recent Case Results

$17,800,000

Settlement

$13,500,000

Jury Verdict

$8,300,000

Settlement

$8,250,000

Settlement

Construction professionals build the infrastructure we depend on often behind the scenes and under dangerous conditions.  When injuries occur, they deserve skilled legal representation. These cases require specialized knowledge of New York’s workers' compensation laws and third-party liability claims.

Under State Law, workers injured by falls or falling objects may be entitled to special protections. At the Porter Law Group, we take great pride in our track record of winning significant verdicts and large settlements for injured workers.  We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take, and we fight tirelessly to get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Choose the Porter Law Group 

The lawyers at the Porter Law Group have decades of experience representing individuals and families whose lives have been devastated by catastrophic injuries. We have obtained some of the largest settlements and verdicts in courts throughout the State of New York. We are a state-wide firm that handles cases with a hometown feel.

Our clients come to us looking for guidance and answers. With seasoned trial lawyers, the Porter Law Group has the resources necessary to help you navigate the most complex cases, against goliath insurance companies that will stop at nothing to prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve.  

You only get one chance to choose the best lawyer for you and your family. Hire the lawyers most recommended by former clients and local attorneys, and the firm that delivers superior results. 

When you or a loved one’s life has been devastated by a serious personal injury in New York, don’t hire a lawyer without calling the Porter Law Group to learn why so many of our clients are thankful they trusted us with their case in their time of need.     

Understanding Your Rights After a Construction Accident in New York

New York State maintains some of the strongest worker protection laws in the nation, particularly Labor Law 240 (commonly known as the "Scaffold Law") and Labor Law 241. These laws impose strict liability on property owners and general contractors for gravity-related injuries on construction sites. This means that if you're injured in a fall from height or struck by a falling object, you may be entitled to compensation beyond standard workers' compensation benefits.

Under New York's workers' compensation system, injured construction workers are typically entitled to medical benefits and a portion of their lost wages. However, these benefits often fall short of covering the full impact of catastrophic injuries. That’s  where the expertise of a specialized construction accident lawyer becomes invaluable.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If you've been injured on a New York construction site, you and your family may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Pain & Suffering: Compensation for physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by your injuries
  • Permanent Disability: Financial recovery for long-term or lifelong impairments that affect your ability to work or enjoy life
  • Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost during recovery and potential future earnings if you cannot return to your prior occupation
  • Medical Expenses: Coverage for all accident-related medical care, including emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care

Our team of skilled trial lawyers and industry experts have a proven track record of securing high-level construction accident settlements and verdicts. We understand the complex interplay between workers' compensation claims and third-party liability suits, and we work to maximize your recovery through every legal avenue available. 

Common Construction Accidents in New York

Our NYC construction accident attorneys handle a wide range of construction-related injuries, including:

Falls from Heights

Falls from ladders, roofs, scaffolding, or other structures are among the most common and devastating construction accidents. These incidents often result in severe injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and multiple fractures. New York Labor Law 240 provides strong legal protections for workers injured in such falls.

Struck-by Accidents

Being struck by falling objects, tools, or construction materials can result in serious head trauma, crushing injuries, or fatalities. These accidents often stem from inadequate safety precautions, unsecured materials, or poor site management. Equipment failures and machinery malfunctions are also frequent cases.

Scaffolding & Crane Collapses

Scaffold and crane collapses represent some of the most catastrophic construction accidents, often affecting multiple workers and causing severe injuries. These incidents typically involve Labor Law 240/241 violations, such as improper assembly, overloading, or poor maintenance. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly to identify all responsible parties.

Electrocutions

Contact with exposed wiring, live power lines, or faulty  equipment can cause severe burns, cardiac issues, or fatal electrocution. These accidents are often linked to OSHA violations or lack of  proper training, equipment, and safety procedures..

Other  Construction Site Accidents We Handle

  • Structural collapses due to construction defects
  • Demolition accidents causing crushing injuries or toxic exposure
  • Elevator accidents resulting in falls or entrapment
  • Forklift accidents involving operator error or equipment failure
  • Trips and falls on cluttered or poorly maintained work surfaces
  • Inadequate safety equipment including missing roof brackets or respirators

From Manhattan high-rises to Brooklyn infrastructure projects, we've fought for injured workers on major sites like Hudson Yards, One World Trade Center, and JFK Airport renovations. Our experience across New York construction projects gives us deep insight into site-specific hazards and the legal challenges workers face. 

Construction Site Negligence and Responsibility

Commercial property owners and general contractors often neglect or fail to enforce essential safety regulations designed to protect workers on the job. This negligence puts job site workers at serious risk. In many cases, contractors may not even even realize their sites are violating established safety standards, but lack of awareness does not absolve them of liability for worker injuries.

Our construction accident attorneys thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case to identify all potentially responsible parties, which may include:

  • Property owners
  • General contractors
  • Subcontractors
  • Equipment manufacturers
  • Engineers or architects
  • Safety consultants
  • Material suppliers

Through detailed investigations and expert testimony, we build a clear picture of responsibility and hold negligent parties accountable for failing  to maintain safe working conditions. New York's labor laws place significant responsibility on property owners and contractors, providing injured workers with strong legal grounds to pursue compensation beyond standard workers' compensation benefits.

See also:
How Does Labor Law 241 Protect New York Construction Workers?
Can I Sue After a Construction Accident in New York?

NYC Construction Accident Statistics

In 2022, over 60% of NYC construction fatalities involved falls (NYC DOB Report). Our construction accident lawyers use this data to highlight unsafe practices in cases involving:

  • Lack of fall protection (e.g., missing harnesses or guardrails)
  • Defective equipment sourced from Bronx suppliers
  • Rushed timelines at Manhattan condominium sites

These incidents underscore the daily risks  faced by New York's construction workforce. Despite strict regulations, serious and fatal construction accidents continue at alarming rates, particularly at the five boroughs where development is nonstop. By understanding these patterns, we build stronger cases, demonstrating industry-wide failures  and specific safety violations that contributed to your injury.

How Can Construction Site Workers Protect Themselves In New York?

First, workers must understand the regulations that govern their job sites. For example, scaffolding must be manufactured and assembled to meet strict standards. By knowing what type of scaffolding is required for certain heights or loads, workers are better equipped to speak up and request proper  equipment. 

However, knowing the rules isn’t enough if scaffolding is improperly erected or defectively constructed. In those cases, our experienced trial lawyers and industry experts at Porter Law Group can help.

We aggressively investigate the conditions  at the time of your injury to determine who is liable—whether it’s a contractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer. Then we guide you in pursuing compensation for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses, while protecting your rights and your family.  

Safety Measures and Worker Rights

All New York construction workers have the  right to:

  • Receive proper safety training
  • Be provided with appropriate safety equipment
  • Work on properly constructed scaffolding and platforms
  • Operate well-maintained equipment
  • Report safety violations without fear of retaliation
  • Refuse to work in conditions that pose immediate danger

Understanding these rights not only helps prevent accidents but also strengthens your legal case if an injury does happen. Our construction worker lawyers can explain  the specific protections available to you based on your role and the nature of your construction project.

What To Do After a Construction Site Injury in New York?

Even on well-managed job sites,  accidents can still happen. If you are injured, it’s crucial  to follow proper procedures  for reporting the incident. Notify your supervisors immediately even if the injury seems minor.While regulations may allow some time to file an accident report, reporting the incident immediately is always the best course of action. If you have concerns about what’s included in an accident report, consult  our legal team before signing or agreeing to its contents.

Critical Steps to Take After  a Construction Accident

  1. Seek immediate medical attention, even for minor injuries
  2. Report the accident to your supervisor as soon as possible
  3. Take photos of the accident scene, if you're able
  4. Get contact information from witnesses
  5. Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as damaged equipment
  6. Consult with a construction accident attorney before signing any documents or accepting any settlement offers

Following these steps help create a clear record of your injury and strengthens your case for compensation. Our construction accident lawyers will guide you through the process and help you avoid missteps that could hurt your claim.  

Should All Accident Victims In New York Seek Medical Attention?

The short answer is yes. It's always a good idea to seek medical attention immediately after an accident that causes any type of injury. While minor cuts and scrapes may seem insignificant, it’s safest to report and evaluate any injury right away.

Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates a documented record that may be vital later. Early treatment can also help minimize long-term complications, especially in cases involving soft tissue injuries.

Many construction-related injuries don’t show their full severity immediately. Conditions like head trauma, internal bleeding, and ligament damage can worsen without proper diagnosis and care. Prompt medical evaluation ensures your injuries are clearly linked to the job site accident, which is crucial for both workers' compensation claims and potential third-party lawsuits.

The Construction Accident Settlement Process in New York

Securing a fair construction accident settlement requires experienced legal representation. The process typically includes:

  1. Investigating the accident site and circumstances
  2. Documenting of all injuries and related expenses
  3. Identifying all potentially liable parties
  4. Filing appropriate claims with workers' compensation and relevant insurance companies
  5. Negotiating with insurance adjusters and defense attorneys
  6. Litigating the case if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation

The value of your construction accident settlement depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, how they affect your ability to work, the degree of negligence involved, and the specific circumstances of your accident. 

Our construction accident attorneys build strong, well-documented cases that account for both current and future damages, ensuring you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. 

Construction workers on a building scaffolding
Construction workers in uniform and safety equipment working on scaffolding at building site.

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Accidents in New York

Q: What compensation can I get for a NYC construction injury?

A: Under New York Labor Law, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and permanent disability. Our construction accident lawyers ensure you pursue both workers' compensation and third-party claims where applicable. The exact amount depends on the severity of your injuries,  long-term impact on your work capacity, and the degree of negligence involved.

Q: How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in NY?

A: The statute of limitations for personal injury in New York is three years but acting quickly is essential as evidence can disappear and witnesses’ memories may fade. For workers' compensation, you must notify your employer within 30 days of the accident. 

Q: Can I sue my employer for a construction accident in New York?

A: While workers' compensation generally prevents direct lawsuits against employers, New York's Labor Laws allow claims against property owners and general contractors. You may also file a third-party claim against equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, or other entities whose negligence contributed to your injury.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for my construction accident?

A: New York follows comparative negligence rules. You can still recover damages even if you’re partially at fault, but your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Our construction accident lawyers work to minimize your share of fault while maximizing the responsibility assigned to negligent parties.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a New York construction accident lawyer?

A: At the Porter Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs or hourly fees, and we only collect payment if we secure compensation for you. This arrangement ensures access to high-quality legal representation regardless of your financial situation.

Q: What Compensation Can I Get if I Lost a Limb in a New York Construction Accident?

A: You may be eligible for a Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) Award under New York’s workers' compensation system. This is a specific type of workers' compensation benefit in New York that compensates construction workers who have suffered permanent impairment to extremities (arms, legs, hands, feet), vision loss, or hearing loss. This acknowledges that even after maximum medical improvement, you may have permanent limitations in using the affected body part. SLU awards provide compensation based on a percentage of loss of function to the specific body part, as determined by medical evaluation.

Contact New York Construction and Workplace Injury Lawyers

It is imperative that you seek legal assistance as soon as possible if you've been injured on a construction site. Doing so will ensure the construction companies involved and/or their insurance companies will not take advantage of you. Contacting the team at Porter Law Group as quickly as possible is strongly advised.

Doing so is important to make sure the appropriate medical care will be available, but also to ensure that your ongoing medical costs are covered and you remain entitled to wages for lost time from work. If you are injured on a job site in New York, our legal team can put you in the best possible position to recover damages for pain and suffering, lost wages, and any current or future medical bills related to the accident.

Porter Law Group's construction accident attorneys bring decades of combined experience in New York labor law and personal injury litigation. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that construction accidents take on workers and their families, and we're committed to securing the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

If you've been injured in a construction accident, call Porter Law Group at 833-PORTER9, or email info@porterlawteam.com. Your initial consultation is completely free, and we'll provide honest guidance about your legal options and the potential value of your claim.

Last Updated on 
August 21, 2025

Post Image: Stock image from pexels.com by Anamul Rezwan

PLG Personal Injury Logo

Get a Free Consultation

Contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation meeting to discuss your case and to gain some peace of mind from having all of your questions answered.
Our mission is simple: to defeat the powerful insurance companies that will stop at nothing to take advantage of our injured clients and their families.

If you or a family member has suffered a catastrophic injury or death due to someone’s negligence, you get only one shot to hire the best law firm for your family—the one with the experience and proven ability to get our clients the justice they deserve. Choose the Porter Law Group.
PLG Logo
Albany Office*
69 State Street
13th Floor
Albany, NY 12207
Buffalo Office*
50 Fountain Plaza
Suite 1400
Buffalo, NY 14202
NYC Office*
1177 Avenue of the Americas, 5th floor
New York, NY 10036
Rochester Office*
510 Clinton Square, Rochester, NY 14604
Syracuse Office
100 Madison Street,
15th Floor
Syracuse NY 13202

Avoid sharing confidential information via contact form, text, or voicemail as they are not secure. Please be aware that using any of these communication methods does not establish an attorney-client relationship. *By appointment only.

The information contained on this site is proprietary and protected. Any unauthorized or illegal use, copying, or dissemination will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. All content on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not, nor should it be taken as medical or legal advice. None of the content on this site is intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Attorney Advertising.

We serve clients in every city and county in New York State. These include places like: The Adirondacks, Albany, Alexandria Bay, Amsterdam, Astoria, Auburn, Ballston Spa, Batavia, Beacon, Binghamton, Brooklyn, Buffalo, Canandaigua, Carthage, Cattaraugus, Catskill, Cayuga Lake, Cazenovia, Chelsea, Clayton, Clifton Park, Cobleskill, Colonie, Cooperstown, Corning, Cortland, Delhi, Delmar, Dunkirk, East Aurora, East Hampton, Elmira, Fayetteville, Finger Lakes, Flushing, Fredonia, Fulton, Garden City, Geneva, Glen Cove, Glens Falls, Gloversville, Gouverneur, Great Neck, Greenwich Village, Hamilton, Hammondsport, Harlem, Haverstraw, Hempstead, Herkimer, Hornell, Hudson, Huntington, Ilion, Ithaca, Jamaica, Jamestown, Johnstown, Kingston, Lake George, Lake Placid, Lewiston, Little Falls, Liverpool, Lockport, Long Island City, Lowville, Malone, Manhattan, Manlius, Massena, Medina, Middletown, Monticello, Montauk, Mount Vernon, New Paltz, New Rochelle, Newburgh, Niagara Falls, North Tonawanda, Norwich, Nyack, Ogdensburg, Old Forge, Olean, Oneida, Oneonta, Ossining, Oswego, Penn Yan, Peekskill, Plattsburgh, Port Chester, Potsdam, Poughkeepsie, Queens, Rhinebeck, Riverhead, Rochester, Rome, Rye, Sag Harbor, Saranac Lake, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Seneca Falls, Seneca Lake, Skaneateles, SoHo, Southampton, Spring Valley, Staten Island, Stony Brook, Suffern, Syracuse, Tarrytown, The Bronx, Thousand Islands, Ticonderoga, Troy, Tupper Lake, Utica, Warsaw, Waterloo, Watertown, Watkins Glen, Wellsville, White Plains, Williamsburg, Woodstock, Yonkers, and many more communities throughout New York State.


Copyright © 2025, Porter Law Group. Personal Injury Lawyers
Made with 💛 by Gold Penguin

magnifiercross linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram