Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
When you fall from scaffolding or are struck by falling materials on a job site, the injuries can be severe and life-altering. Broken bones, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries are common in these accidents.
A scaffolding accident lawyer in Orangetown can help you understand what benefits may be available and whether you have grounds for a personal injury claim. At Shulman & Hill, we work with construction workers and laborers across Orangetown and Rockland County.
Scaffolding accidents can result from unstable platforms, improper installation, missing guardrails, or overloaded structures. Our workers’ compensation lawyers in Orangetown can handle both workers’ compensation claims and third-party claims. Contact us today.
What Causes Scaffolding Accidents on Orangetown Job Sites?
Scaffolding injuries are often tied to safety failures rather than isolated events. Responsibility may fall on contractors, property owners, or equipment suppliers, depending on how the incident occurred.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Scaffolding not erected in compliance with safety standards
- Missing or inadequate guardrails and protective barriers
- Unsecured or overloaded planks
- Defective or worn scaffolding components
- Inadequate training for workers using or working near scaffolding
- Wet or icy surfaces without slip protection
The cause matters because it affects who may be legally responsible. Workers’ compensation applies regardless of fault, but third-party claims may be available when someone outside your employer contributed to the accident. Contact an Orangetown personal injury lawyer for guidance with your claim.
Workers’ Compensation and Personal Injury Claims
In New York, injured construction workers may be able to pursue both workers’ compensation and a third-party personal injury claim after a scaffolding accident. These are separate claims that may proceed at the same time.
Workers’ compensation may cover medical care and a portion of lost wages. It does not include damages for pain and suffering or full lost income.
A third-party claim may allow recovery for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability or permanent impairment
- Rehabilitation and home care costs
New York law, including Labor Law Sections 200, 240(1), and 241(6), provides specific protections for construction workers, particularly in elevation-related accidents involving scaffolding.
OSHA Scaffolding Safety Standards and Employer Obligations
Employers and contractors must follow OSHA safety standards, which address scaffolding construction, load limits, fall protection, and safe access. These regulations are designed to reduce the risk of falls, collapses, and struck-by incidents on job sites.
When these standards are not followed, it may be relevant in determining liability, particularly in third-party claims. Safety failures can point to issues with supervision, planning, or equipment that contributed to the accident.
Records and conditions often reviewed to assess compliance include:
- Scaffolding design and assembly: Whether the structure was properly erected, secured, and supported according to OSHA requirements
- Load capacity and usage limits: Whether the scaffolding was overloaded or used in a way that exceeded its rated capacity
- Fall protection measures: The presence and condition of guardrails, toe boards, harness systems, and other protective equipment
- Access and egress points: Whether ladders, stair towers, or other access systems were safe and properly maintained
- Inspection records and safety logs: Documentation showing whether regular inspections were conducted and whether hazards were identified and corrected
- Training and supervision: Whether workers were properly trained to use scaffolding safely, and whether supervisors enforced safety protocols
Inspection records, safety logs, and site conditions are often reviewed to assess whether proper procedures were followed and whether any violations contributed to the incident.
Common Injuries in Orangetown Scaffolding Accidents
Scaffolding accidents often involve significant force or height, which can result in serious injuries. Even a fall from a relatively low height may lead to long-term effects, especially when a worker lands on a hard surface or is struck by falling materials.
Injuries may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries and head trauma: Concussions or more severe brain injuries caused by falls or falling objects
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage that may result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility and independence
- Broken bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, wrists, or ankles due to high-impact falls or collapse incidents
- Shoulder injuries: Dislocations, tears, or strains from impact or attempts to brace during a fall
- Internal injuries: Damage to organs caused by blunt force trauma during a fall or struck-by event
- Crush injuries: Severe trauma when scaffolding collapses or heavy materials fall onto a worker
Some injuries may require surgery, extended rehabilitation, or long-term care. In more serious cases, workers may not be able to return to their prior job duties, and loss of earning capacity may become a significant part of the claim.
Why Shulman & Hill Is the Team to Choose
Shulman & Hill has recovered over $1 billion for clients across New York and has represented thousands of injured individuals. Our team brings extensive experience handling construction and scaffolding accident cases.
We conduct detailed investigations, gather evidence, and prepare cases for negotiation or litigation where necessary. Our work focuses on construction workers, laborers, and public-sector employees.
We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront attorney’s fees, and fees are only collected if compensation is recovered.
Talk to an Orangetown Scaffolding Accident Attorney Today
If you or a family member was injured in a scaffolding accident in Orangetown, it is important to understand the deadlines that may apply to your claim.
Contact Shulman & Hill to schedule a free consultation. We can review your situation, explain your options under New York law, and help you determine next steps.