BROOKLYN CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENT LAWYER

Q: Who Can Be Held Liable for a Construction Accident?

In most cases, you cannot sue your employer. Workers compensation is generally the sole avenue for seeking a remedy from your employer for a work injury. However, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against any other party at fault for your construction accident. Identifying the parties responsible for a construction accident is key to securing the compensation you deserve. Our experience has shown that the following parties are often to blame for construction accidents: Property owners Construction companies Contractors and subcontractors Equipment manufacturers Architects and engineers We conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify all liable parties. This approach helps you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries. We also leverage our thorough understanding of construction site liability to build a strong case for our clients.

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Understanding the importance of legal representation is essential for those navigating construction site hazards. Unfortunately, accidents are a part of this dynamic industry, and having a seasoned construction accident attorney in Brooklyn can make a pivotal difference when you seek justice and compensation.

Chopra & Nocerino, LLP has a robust track record in construction accident law. As advocates for injured workers, we combine compassion with aggressive legal strategies. Our personal injury attorneys are ready to support Brooklyn’s hardworking individuals after construction accidents. Contact us for a free case evaluation today.

Why Choose Chopra and Nocerino for Construction Accident Cases in Brooklyn, NY?

When facing the repercussions of a construction accident, choosing the right legal representation is critical. Our firm is the top choice for your Brooklyn construction accident attorney. Distinguished by our extensive legal experience, impressive results, and sterling reputation, you can’t go wrong when you choose our team. Specifically, we bring:

Significant experience: With more than 20 years of combined experience, we thoroughly understand construction accident law.
Record of success: We have secured hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients because we know how to deliver results.
Awards and recognition: Our excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. We boast accolades, including the Top 10 under 40 from the National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100.
Commitment to advocacy: We are known for our aggressive advocacy and willingness to go to trial. We are prepared to fight hard for our clients, striving for the best possible outcome regardless of the case’s complexity.

Additionally, our hands-on approach to each case gives you the personalized attention you deserve.

Construction Accident Case Results

$3.5 Million Settlement – Our client, a 28-year-old construction worker, suffered a severe hand injury requiring surgery. He suffered no other physical injuries aside from his hand, but he could no longer return to work.
$3 Million Settlement – Our client, a 42-year-old construction worker, fell off a ladder and injured his spine, which required surgery. We settled with the defense just before the trial in Brooklyn, NY.

Testimonials

“I highly recommend Chopra & Nocerino LLP. My experience throughout the process, which had been prolonged because of the opposing counsel, even though there was a summary judgment, was extremely positive. Everyone at this law firm has been very friendly, compassionate, and patient. Throughout the process of the lawsuit, I was kept informed, and everything was explained clearly to me. With gratitude to attorneys Chopra & Nocerino and their staff.”

-Camille S., Google

“Chopra & Nocerino LLP is a hallmark of a law firm. They are the best! They prioritize my needs and my concerns. They maintained open and transparent communication with me, and they are experts in their field. Their staff are really nice, respectful and incredible. I love their client-centered approach, and I highly recommend them to anyone. “

- Gem L., Google

Brooklyn Neighborhoods We Serve

Brooklyn has experienced impressive growth and transformation in recent years, evidenced by large-scale construction projects such as the Pacific Park development and the revitalization of the Brooklyn Yard. While these projects highlight the area’s economic boom, they underscore the constant risks construction workers face daily. A Brooklyn construction accident lawyer’s services are crucial in this landscape.

In Brooklyn, NY, construction accidents are most likely to occur in areas with high volumes of construction activity and older infrastructure. We are dedicated to serving the entire Brooklyn community with top-tier legal representation. Some of these areas include:

Downtown Brooklyn: With its rapid development and numerous high-rise projects, this area sees a significant amount of construction activity.
Williamsburg: Known for its gentrification and the rise of new residential and commercial buildings, Williamsburg experiences frequent construction projects.
Greenpoint: Similar to Williamsburg, Greenpoint is undergoing extensive redevelopment, leading to a high incidence of construction work.
Bushwick: Another neighborhood experiencing gentrification and new developments, increasing the likelihood of construction accidents.
Gowanus: With ongoing revitalization and construction projects aimed at transforming the industrial area, Gowanus is another hotspot for construction activity.

Our dedication to serving Brooklyn is evident in our extensive reach across its neighborhoods. The neighborhoods above are characterized by a mix of new developments and renovations of older structures, contributing to higher risks of construction accidents.

We are the construction site injury attorneys in Brooklyn that you should trust. We are ready to defend your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

Types of Construction Accidents We Handle in Brooklyn, NY

In Brooklyn’s busy construction sites, the risk of an accident is always present. We understand the dangers you face daily on the job. Our experienced Brooklyn construction accident attorneys represent workers suffering from various kinds of injuries commonly sustained in hazardous construction environments.

Our team has extensive experience handling cases involving scaffolding collapses, crane accidents, electrocutions, and more. Call (855) NYC-HURT or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. Para servir mejor a todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad, ofrecemos servicios en español.

Worker Falls and Scaffolding Accidents and Collapses

Year after year, falls are the most common cause of construction incidents in New York City. In 2021, 205 construction workers fell at construction sites throughout the five boroughs. These resulted in seven fatalities, which also makes falls the deadliest kind of construction accident in the city. Workers who survive often face catastrophic injuries and a long road to recovery.

Unsafe scaffolding is a major cause of construction worker falls, which is why New York passed a Scaffold Safety Law (New York Labor Law Section 240). Failure to comply may lead to liability. Scaffolding accidents in Brooklyn may result from improper assembly, faulty safety equipment, or product defects. Other causes include slippery surfaces, unstable platforms, and a lack of guardrails.

In the event of an accident, liability typically falls on third-party scaffolding companies, engineers, or contractors who failed to design or install the scaffolding correctly. Property owners may also be liable if they ignore dangerous scaffolding conditions.

$4.75 Million Settlement – Scaffolding collapsed on a construction worker, causing him to fall and sustain catastrophic spine and neck injuries requiring surgery. The settlement was obtained soon before trial.
$3 Million Settlement – A construction worker, age 42, fell off a ladder in Manhattan. His spinal injury required surgery. The settlement was reached in Brooklyn soon before trial.
$550,000 Settlement Our client, age 49, fell off scaffolding while working as an electrician, sustaining injuries to her right shoulder and neck. The case was previously dropped by another law firm.

Heavy Machinery and Crane Accidents

Construction workers frequently operate equipment like cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and compactors. Safely operating these machines requires extreme precision and caution. Failure to follow safety protocols can result in life-threatening injuries, including amputations, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.

Cranes pose a particularly high risk of serious accidents, including collapses and falling loads. Between 2011 and 2017, there were 16 fatal crane injuries reported in New York. Crane accidents in Brooklyn often involve safety hazards like:

Overloading
Loose bolts
Broken wires
Torn ropes
Torn slings

Bent boom lacing
Boom failure
Improper tiebacks
Insufficient clearance
Failure to implement a wind action plan

Other common injuries involving heavy machinery include being struck by moving parts, caught in equipment, struck by vehicles, and crushed between equipment and other objects.

$3.5 Million Settlement – A construction worker, age 28, suffered a severe hand injury requiring surgery. As a result, he could no longer return to work.

Electrical and Welding Accidents

Electrocutions are one of the leading causes of death among construction workers in New York City. In fact, the construction industry has the highest rate of electrical fatalities of all occupations nationwide.

Construction workers often work with electricity, which puts them at risk of fatal electrocutions and burns, especially when safety protocols are not followed. The most common causes of workplace electrical fatalities include working with live wires and overhead power lines. Construction workers face these hazards when:

Installing wiring or light fixtures without shutting off power.
Touching frayed or damaged electrical cords.
Using equipment with frayed cords.
Working with electricity on wet surfaces or in damp conditions.
Misusing extension cords.

Burns and other heat-related injuries in the construction industry can also result from welding accidents. These accidents often occur due to inadequate safety equipment, such as a lack of protective clothing or welding screens.

What Types of Damages Are Available to Construction Accident Victims in Brooklyn, New York?

Most construction workers injured on the job are covered by their employers’ workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system that provides medical coverage and replaces a portion of your lost wages, no matter who is responsible for your injuries. As a tradeoff, you generally cannot sue your employer for your injuries.

Unfortunately, workers’ compensation isn’t always enough to cover steep medical bills and other expenses associated with a construction accident. However, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against other parties responsible for your injuries.

As leading Brooklyn construction accident attorneys, we understand the significant impact a construction accident can have on your life. We are committed to securing the full range of damages you are owed.

Comprehensive Compensation

In a personal injury lawsuit against an at-fault party, Brooklyn construction accident victims can pursue various types of compensation, including the following:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Disability and disfigurement
Punitive damages, in extreme cases

Supporting Undocumented Workers

We recognize the difficult challenges undocumented workers face in Brooklyn. To protect your rights, we provide confidentiality and Spanish-speaking legal assistance. Your immigration status should not stop you from seeking justice. We handle your case with discretion and respect. We understand that language can be a barrier to justice, but it shouldn’t be. Our team can communicate effectively in Spanish so that you know your rights and legal options.

“Chopra and Nocerino is the firm to use! They work tirelessly to get you the money you deserve. I refer everyone I know to them. They are professional, dedicated, amazing attorneys. No matter what time of day I reached out for answers to questions or concerns I had, they always replied fast. They really care about their clients and will not stop until you get the money you deserve. They secured a 7 figure settlement for me in a fast amount of time. Thank you, Chopra and Nocerino! You guys are the best”

- Jennifer W., Google

What Is the Average Construction Accident Settlement in Brooklyn?

Settlements are often private, and every case is different. Thus, it is challenging to pinpoint an average figure. However, several factors influence the settlement size, including:

Severity of injuries: More serious injuries typically net higher settlements due to increased medical costs, extended recovery times, and potential long-term effects on quality of life.
Lost wages and earning capacity: The impact of your injuries on your ability to work, both now and in the future, significantly affects settlement amounts.
Liability and negligence: Establishing the parties’ responsibility plays a crucial role in the settlement. Clear liability on an employer’s or third party’s behalf can increase settlement size.
Legal representation: Having experienced attorneys can dramatically affect your settlement’s outcome. Our aggressive negotiation tactics and willingness to try cases provide significant leverage to secure the best compensation package possible.

While predicting a settlement amount is difficult, our history of securing substantial client awards speaks volumes. Multi-million dollar settlements are not uncommon in Brooklyn construction accident cases, reflecting the serious nature of these incidents and their significant impact on individuals’ lives.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Construction Accident?

In most cases, you cannot sue your employer. Workers’ compensation is generally the sole avenue for seeking a remedy from your employer for a work injury. However, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against any other party at fault for your construction accident.

Identifying the parties responsible for a construction accident is key to securing the compensation you deserve. Our experience has shown that the following parties are often to blame for construction accidents:

Property owners
Construction companies
Contractors and subcontractors
Equipment manufacturers
Architects and engineers

We conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify all liable parties. This approach helps you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries. We also leverage our thorough understanding of construction site liability to build a strong case for our clients.

Is There a Time Limit to File a Construction Accident Claim in Brooklyn, NY?

There is a strict deadline for filing a construction accident lawsuit. In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including those stemming from construction accidents, is generally three years from the accident date. Therefore, you have three years to file suit against the parties responsible for your injuries.

Key points to consider include:

Filing on time: If you don’t file your claim before your limitations period expires, you may forfeit your right to seek compensation.
Exceptions: Certain circumstances can lengthen or shorten your deadline. For example, the deadline for claims by underage victims is extended to three years after their 18th birthday. However, claims against a city or municipal entity may shorten your deadline to as little as 90 days.
Time is money: Crafting a winning case takes time. Speaking to a knowledgeable attorney promptly will enable them to build the best case. They also can inform you of your precise deadline and legal options.

Can You Get Fired for Getting Hurt at Work?

If you’re injured at work, you are generally protected from being fired because of the injury. Here’s what you need to know:

Workers’ compensation: Under New York law, the legal system protects you when you are injured on the job, providing a process for receiving medical care and replacing some of your lost wages.
Retaliatory discharge: It’s illegal for your employer to fire you in retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Employment rights: While workers’ compensation laws protect your right to claim benefits, they don’t absolutely guarantee job security. Employers can still make business decisions that may lead to layoffs. However, they cannot single you out because of your workers’ compensation claim.

What if I Am Partially at Fault for the Construction Accident?

Here’s how New York’s laws work in your favor, even if you share some responsibility for the accident:

New York follows a pure comparative negligence standard in personal injury cases, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you are partially to blame for your construction accident. Your share of the blame will reduce your recovery, but it does not bar you from seeking compensation for your injuries, even if you were mostly at fault. The court will simply subtract your percentage of liability from your damage awards.

For example, if you suffered $1 million in damages but were 75 percent responsible for your accident, you could recover 25 percent, or $250,000, for at-fault third parties.

Consulting a Brooklyn construction accident lawyer will enable you to navigate a potentially complex claim and protect your rights.

Our Brooklyn Construction Accident Lawyers Can Help

Construction work is one of the deadliest professions. If you were injured on a construction site, our Brooklyn construction accident lawyers can help. Call (855) NYC-HURT or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Los inmigrantes constituyen una parte importante de la fuerza laboral en Brooklyn. Estamos aquí para defender tus derechos. Para servir mejor a todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad, ofrecemos servicios en español.

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