Utility Worker Injury Lawyers in New York

Utility workers across New York State face significant risks daily, from electrical hazards to falls and equipment malfunctions. When accidents happen, the Porter Law Group's experienced utility worker injury attorneys fight to secure the compensation on behalf of injured workers and their families. As one of New York’s leading construction accident law firms, we understand the complex interplay between workers' compensation and third-party liability claims that can maximize your recovery. With offices serving Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, and New York City, our utility worker injury lawyers provide aggressive representation statewide.

The Dangers Faced by New York Utility Workers

Utility workers are the backbone of New York’s infrastructure, ensuring that power, water, gas, and communication systems remain operational. These skilled professionals often work in challenging environments, dealing with high-voltage power lines, underground tunnels, confined spaces, and heavy industrial machinery. When safety protocols are overlooked or corners are cut, these already-dangerous environments become deadly.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, utility system construction workers experience one of the highest rates of workplace injuries and fatalities in New York State. Injured utility workers deserve both appreciation and aggressive legal protection.

Common Causes of Utility Worker Injuries in New York

Utility work is physically demanding and often performed in unpredictable environments. Across New York, the following are some of the most common causes of injuries among utility workers:

1. Falls from Heights

Utility workers frequently work on poles, ladders, or elevated platforms, putting them at risk for serious falls. New York's Labor Law Section 240, known as the "Scaffold Law," provides special protections for workers who suffer gravity-related injuries.

2. Electrocution

Electrical utility workers are especially vulnerable to electrocution when working near high-voltage power lines or equipment. Even with proper protective gear, equipment malfunctions or failures in lockout/tagout procedures can lead to severe electrical injuries.

3. Confined Space Accidents

Working in underground vaults, tunnels, or manholes—particularly within New York’s aging infrastructure—can expose workers to oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, or the risk of collapse. OSHA requires employers to follow strict confined space entry procedures to mitigate these dangers.

4. Heavy Machinery Accidents

Utility workers often operate or work near heavy machinery, including backhoes, cranes, and auger trucks. Without proper maintenance or operation, this equipment can cause crushing injuries, amputations, or fatal accidents.

5. Slip and Fall Accidents

Wet or icy conditions, uneven terrain, and worksite debris can lead to slip and fall injuries, especially during New York’s harsh winter months.

6. Exposure to Toxic Substances

Gas utility workers may encounter natural gas leaks, while water utility workers might be exposed to hazardous chemicals used in treatment processes. Long-term exposure can result in serious respiratory or systemic health issues.

7. Vehicle-Related Accidents

Utility workers often operate near active roadways, increasing their risk of being struck by passing vehicles. These incidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

Construction Site Utility Accidents in New York

Many utility worker injuries occur at or near construction sites, where multiple contractors, temporary power systems, and excavation activities create additional hazards. 

The Porter Law Group evaluates whether your injury qualifies under enhanced worker protections provided by:

• Labor Law § 200 (Safe Workplace Law)
• Labor Law § 240 (Scaffold Law)
• Labor Law § 241(6) (Industrial Code Violations)

Our New York construction accident attorneys have secured substantial verdicts and settlements for utility workers injured by:

• Scaffold collapses while installing overhead utilities
• Trench collapses during underground work
• Electrocution from temporary or improperly grounded power systems
• Struck-by injuries from construction equipment
• Falls while accessing elevated infrastructure
• Explosions from damaged gas lines during excavation
• Exposure to asbestos in older utility infrastructure

Damages Available in New York Utility Worker Injury Cases

Utility work accidents can result in severe, life-altering injuries requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work. As a utility worker injured in New York, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and income
• Reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Disability or disfigurement
• Loss of quality of life
• Emotional distress
• Home modification costs
• In-home care expenses
• Wrongful death benefits for families of deceased workers

The value of your claim depends on numerous factors, including the severity of your injuries, your pre-injury earnings, long-term prognosis, and available insurance coverage. The Porter Law Group's utility worker injury attorneys work with medical experts, economists, and life-care planners to determine the full and fair value of your case.

Workers' Compensation for Injured Utility Workers in New York

New York law requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance for utility workers. This no-fault system covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who was at fault.

In most cases, workers' compensation will be your primary source of recovery. You typically cannot sue your employer unless the injury was intentionally caused or qualifies as a “grave injury” under New York Workers’ Compensation Law.

Under Section 11, “grave injuries” include:

• Death
• Permanent and total loss of use or amputation of an arm, leg, hand, or foot
• Loss of multiple fingers
• Loss of multiple toes
• Paraplegia or quadriplegia
• Total and permanent blindness
• Total and permanent deafness
• Loss of nose
• Loss of ear
• Permanent and severe facial disfigurement
• Loss of an index finger
• Traumatic brain injury causing permanent total disability

Because these definitions are strictly interpreted by New York courts, it’s essential to consult an experienced utility worker injury lawyer before pursuing legal action beyond workers' comp. The Porter Law Group can advise you on your eligibility and other legal remedies that may be available.

Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) Awards for New York Utility Workers

Injured utility workers who suffer permanent loss of function or amputation of specific body parts may be entitled to a Schedule Loss of Use (SLU) award under New York workers' compensation law. Eligible impairments include:

• Arms (shoulder and elbow)
• Hands (wrist and forearm)
• Fingers
• Legs (hip and knees)
• Feet (ankle)
• Toes
• Eyes (loss of vision)
• Ears (loss of hearing)
• Disfigurement (scars on the scalp, neck, or face)

If an insurer wrongly denies your SLU claim, the utility worker injury attorneys at the Porter Law Group can help fight for the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys are deeply familiar with the nuances of New York's SLU process and how to maximize your benefits.

Third-Party Liability for Utility Worker Injuries in New York

While workers’ compensation offers essential coverage, it does not compensate for non-economic damages like pain and suffering. If a third party caused or contributed to your injury, you may be able to pursue an additional claim. Examples include:

• Equipment Manufacturers: If faulty equipment or tools caused your injury, you may have a product liability case against the manufacturer or distributor.
• Property Owners: When utility workers are injured on private or commercial property due to dangerous conditions, a premises liability claim may be appropriate.
• Subcontractors: On construction sites with multiple contractors, negligence by another company's employees might create third-party liability.
• Vehicle Operators: If you were struck by a vehicle while working on roadside utilities, you may have a claim against the driver.
• Maintenance Companies: Third parties responsible for maintaining equipment that malfunctioned could be liable for resulting injuries.

The Porter Law Group thoroughly investigates every utility injury case to identify all liable parties. By pursuing both workers' compensation and third-party claims, we work to secure maximum recovery for your injuries and losses.

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Why Choose The Porter Law Group for Your New York Utility Worker Injury Case

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.     

Frequently Asked Questions About Utility Worker Injuries in New York

Can I sue my employer for my utility worker injury in New York?

In most cases, workers' compensation laws prevent you from suing your direct employer. However, exceptions exist if your injury qualifies as a "grave injury" under New York Workers’ Compensation Law § 11. Our utility worker injury attorneys can assess whether your case meets the criteria and explore all possible legal avenues for additional compensation.

What makes The Porter Law Group different from other construction accident lawyers in New York?

Our attorneys specialize in complex workplace injury cases involving utility workers across New York State. We bring deep knowledge of utility work, construction law, OSHA regulations, and New York labor statutes, allowing us to build stronger cases and recover larger settlements.

How much does it cost to hire a utility worker injury lawyer in New York?

The Porter Law Group works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your injuries. Your initial consultation with our construction accident attorneys is always free.

How long do I have to file a utility worker injury claim in New York?

For workers' compensation claims, you should report your injury to your employer within 30 days and file a claim within two years. For third-party liability claims, New York's statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of injury. However, certain claims (such as those involving government entities) have shorter deadlines. To protect your rights, consult a qualified utility worker injury attorney as soon as possible.

Can I receive both workers' compensation and third-party damages for my utility worker injury?

Yes. While you typically cannot sue your employer, you may pursue a third-party claim against other negligent parties, such as contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. Our attorneys help you coordinate both claims to maximize your total compensation.

Contact The Porter Law Group: Your New York Utility Worker Injury Attorneys

If you have been injured in a utility worker accident anywhere in New York State, don't hesitate to seek legal help. The knowledgeable attorneys at The Porter Law Group are here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

We can help you file your claim, gather necessary evidence, and appeal denied claims. And should it be necessary, we will take responsible parties to court to fight for your rights. We've recovered millions of dollars* in financial compensation for New Yorkers who have suffered due to the negligence of others, and we stand ready to bring our experience, skills, and resources to help you get justice.

Call us today at 833-PORTER9 or email info@porterlawteam.com to schedule your free consultation with an experienced New York construction accident lawyer. Let us put our expertise as utility worker injury attorneys to work for you.

* Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome