Accomplished Attorney Handles Construction Worker Injury Cases in New York State

Determined representation for clients seeking the benefits and compensation they deserve

Construction work is one of New York State’s most physically demanding and high-risk industries, with workers exposed to a variety of hazards daily. From heights to heavy machinery, the potential for injury is ever-present. If you are injured while working on a construction site, Peter M. Cordovano, P.C. in Highland is prepared to help. For almost 40 years, I have helped injured construction workers maximize their workers’ compensation benefits and obtain appropriate damages in matters involving third-party negligence and Scaffold Law violations.

The Fatal Four: leading causes of construction worker deaths

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified the following four leading causes of construction worker fatalities:

• Falls — Falling from heights, such as scaffolds, roofs or ladders, is the leading cause of fatalities in construction. These accidents often occur due to lack of fall protection, unsafe ladders or poorly maintained scaffolding.
• Object strikes — Construction sites are full of moving machinery and materials. Workers may be struck by tools, machinery or falling debris, leading to severe injuries or death.
• Electrocutions — Laborers in the construction trade frequently deal with electrical systems, and faulty wiring or improper handling of electrical components can result in life-threatening electrocution.
• Caught in or between objects — Workers can get caught between machinery, equipment or structures, leading to crushing injuries. These are often preventable with proper training and safety equipment.

OSHA reports that these Fatal Four hazards account for nearly 60 percent of construction industry deaths in the United States. They also contribute heavily to disabling injuries for which workers receive workers’ compensation and possibly personal injury damages.

New York's strict liability Scaffold Law

In New York, one of the most significant legal protections for construction workers is the Scaffold Law (Labor Law Section 240). Contractors and property owners who do not provide proper safety equipment are strictly liable for injuries related to falls from scaffolds, ladders and other elevated work platforms. The Scaffold Law also covers some injuries caused by falling objects.

Heavy equipment and vehicle injuries

Heavy machinery and vehicles play a vital role in construction but also introduce significant dangers. Workers may be injured by cranes, bulldozers, backhoes or excavators, either due to mechanical failure or human error. Vehicles are also common sources of construction accidents, especially in congested work environments where workers and equipment are in close proximity.

Collisions with moving vehicles, accidents involving poorly maintained machinery and improper handling of equipment are all serious risks. Additionally, workers operating heavy machinery face an increased chance of injury when adequate training and safety protocols are not in place.

How an injury attorney can help

In the unfortunate event of a construction injury, an experienced attorney can play a crucial role by asserting your legal rights effectively. New York laws applicable to construction injury claims can be difficult to understand without legal assistance. My firm can advise as to whether you have a valid claim under these laws and can assist in gathering evidence, such as witness testimony, worksite reports, and medical records to build a strong case. A third-party negligence or product liability action enables a worker to recover from economic losses and allows compensation for pain and suffering, which can be substantial. In my practice, I also help workers obtain workers’ compensation benefits covering their medical treatment, lost wages, job retraining and permanent disability payments. 

Contact a New York attorney for a free construction accident consultation 

Peter M. Cordovano, P.C. in Highland represents construction workers throughout New York State in workers’ compensation and personal injury actions. To schedule a free consultation, call 845-640-3846 or contact me online.