A Queens Construction Accident Lawyer Helps You Navigate Local Risks

Life is full of unexpected turning points that redefine our paths and reshape our futures. Some of these moments bring joy and opportunity, while others present challenges that test our strength and resilience. For hardworking individuals in the construction industry, a workplace injury can be a profound and unsettling turning point, leaving you wondering what comes next. Fast-paced construction work in Queens and throughout New York City carries unique risks. The aftermath of a serious accident can be life-altering, affecting your health and ability to work. But you don’t have to face the challenges and uncertainty alone. A dedicated Queens construction accident lawyer can guide you through this critical turning point, providing compassionate support and legal guidance to help you recover the damages you are due.

If you or a loved one was injured at a construction site, trust the experts at Shaevitz & Shaevitz. With over 65 years of experience handling workplace injury cases in Queens and beyond, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Understanding Queens’ Unique Construction Landscape

Construction sites in Queens are bustling hubs of activity, contributing significantly to the growth and development of our vibrant borough. However, the inherently risky nature of construction work means that accidents can and do happen. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022, there were 6,700 nonfatal construction accidents in New York State. And, from 2020 to 2023, construction accidents in New York City rose by 38%. These accidents can cause serious injuries that impact every aspect of a worker’s life.

Queens’ diverse neighborhoods—from Long Island City’s high-rise projects to residential renovations in Flushing—present different risks and regulatory requirements. Additionally, certain areas in Queens have specific construction-related risks, such as older buildings with asbestos in Astoria or crowded work sites in Jamaica.

Less obvious but common dangers in Queens construction sites also pose a great risk to workers. Exposure to toxic materials like lead paint in older buildings can cause short- and long-term illnesses. Long-term exposure, even at lower levels, can cause serious and permanent damage to multiple body systems. Working in tight urban workspaces also increases the risk of falls and equipment accidents, while constrained environments can lead to the development of repetitive strain injuries.

Our firm’s familiarity with these regional nuances helps us build strong cases and skillfully represent our clients. At Shaevitz and Shaevitz, we deeply understand New York City construction codes and New York State labor laws, which helps us protect you.

When You Might Have a Case

Because of the hazardous nature of the work environment, construction site accident cases are common. Working at great heights, handling heavy machinery, exposure to chemicals, and operating in unpredictable weather conditions contribute to the high risk of accidents. Additionally, crowded sites, tight deadlines, and the pressure to complete projects quickly can lead to unsafe practices. Even minor lapses in safety protocols, inadequate training, or equipment malfunction can result in serious harm.

In construction areas in New York City, ladder and stair falls, as well as tripping accidents, are on the rise. In 2023, worker falls and materials falling onto workers were the leading causes of construction-related injuries. Structural accidents, mechanical accidents, and electrocutions are also common causes of injuries and deaths. If you or a loved one was injured while working in a construction area, you may be entitled to compensation.

Evaluating Your Case

Our experienced legal team will evaluate whether you have a strong case during your free, confidential consultation. We’ll ask you about factors like safety violations, improper training, or defective equipment. Accidents caused by negligence, lack of safety measures, or hazardous site conditions often form the basis of a strong case.

If you have a valid claim, your Queens construction accident lawyer will begin the process by reviewing incident reports, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with industry experts to build a robust case on your behalf.

Alternatively, if you reported an injury to your employer and are facing retaliation, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Such retaliation is considered workplace discrimination. If your employer fired or demoted you, reduced your hours or pay, denied you benefits or promotions, or created a hostile work environment, you may be entitled to legal action. You have the right to protect yourself and seek compensation for the harm caused by your employer’s action.

Consulting with an experienced attorney who is well-versed in such matters will ensure your rights are protected.

Who Might Be at Fault in a Queens Construction Accident?

Construction accidents occur for several reasons, including:

• Employer negligence
• Unsafe work practices
• Faulty equipment
• Inadequate training
• Violations of safety regulations by contractors, subcontractors, or site managers

A Queens construction accident lawyer will investigate the situation to determine who is responsible for your accident. Under New York’s labor laws (200, 240, 241), contractors and property owners can be held accountable for safety violations. Additionally, liability may extend to equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, engineers, architects, or site supervisors. Even the city itself could be responsible if the accident involves public infrastructure.

Some construction accident cases are complex and may involve multiple responsible parties. An experienced lawyer will methodically investigate your case to assess fault and pursue the proper legal channels.

Book a Free Consultation With a Queens Construction Accident Lawyer!

Construction workers in Queens face unique challenges and risks due to the nature of their work and our region’s diverse landscape. Working with a lawyer who understands these local factors and can effectively determine liability is the key to securing maximum compensation for your workplace injury or illness.

If you or a loved one was injured at a construction site, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Queens legal team. As your trusted ally, the team at Shaevitz & Shaevitz is ready to fight for you.