What is the Scaffolding Law (Section 240)?
The scaffolding law in New York, also known as Labor Law Section 240, mandates that workers who perform tasks at heights must be provided with the proper equipment, including scaffolds and safety harnesses. If a worker falls from scaffolding or something falls on them, the law holds the property owner and general contractor strictly liable for the injuries, regardless of whether they were negligent or not.
Key Violations Under the Scaffolding Law
There are several common violations of this law, such as using cheap scaffolding that doesn’t meet OSHA standards, failing to secure scaffolding properly, or not requiring workers to wear harnesses. These violations significantly increase the risk of accidents, as scaffolding that’s not up to standard can easily collapse, leading to severe injuries.
Legal Implications of Scaffolding Accidents
If an accident occurs due to an employer’s failure to comply with Section 240, the worker doesn’t need to prove negligence; the law holds the responsible parties liable as a matter of law. This is a critical aspect of construction accident claims, especially when a worker is injured or killed due to faulty or unprotected scaffolding.
Understanding New York’s Construction Scaffolding Law After an Accident
If you’ve been hurt in a scaffolding accident in Queens, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. The legal process can be complex, especially when dealing with specific regulations like New York’s scaffolding law. But you don’t have to face it alone. At Cohen & Cohen Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C., our team of Queens scaffolding accident lawyers is here to help you navigate this difficult time.
We’re dedicated to protecting the rights of construction workers and will fight tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. We take a thorough and compassionate approach to every case. We’ll work with experts—from accident reconstructionists to medical professionals—to build a strong and comprehensive case. By carefully reviewing police reports, speaking with witnesses, and consulting with your doctors, we’ll gain a clear understanding of your injuries and how they’ll impact your life now and in the future.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable for Common Scaffolding Violations
Our promise is simple: our team of personal injury accident lawyers will be by your side every step of the way. We offer a free, no-obligation case evaluation, and we handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully help you recover compensation.
We’re here to listen and help. Call us for a FREE consultation at (718) 550-5738. If you prefer, you can also use our convenient online contact form to request a call back. We’re proud to serve our diverse community, and we can assist you in Spanish and Russian.