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Fighting for Masonry and Bricklayer Accident Victims

Masonry and bricklayer accidents on New York City construction sites pose serious risks due to the physically demanding and hazardous nature of the work. These types of accidents happen far too frequently. Bricklayers and masons generally operate at elevated heights, use heavy materials like bricks and stone, and work with equipment such as scaffolding, ladders, and hoists.

This exposes them to dangers such as falls, being struck by falling debris, overexertion, and equipment malfunctions. Faulty safety equipment, improper site maintenance, and inadequate safety protocols can further increase the risk of serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, and even fatalities.

Michael S. Lamonsoff, Esq., known in the legal community as "The Bull" for his aggressive advocacy, is the premier choice for masonry and bricklayer accident victims in New York City. With a "no holds barred" approach, Mr. Lamonsoff fights for his clients' rights and has secured some of the largest settlements and verdicts in New York State history.

His outstanding track record of million and multi-million dollar verdicts has earned him membership in the prestigious Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Consistently featured in "VerdictSearch’s Top New York Verdicts," Mr. Lamonsoff and his firm handle every case with the utmost dedication, no matter how large or small. If you or a loved one has been injured in a masonry or bricklaying accident, choose "The Bull" to fiercely pursue the compensation you need.

Causes of Masonry and Bricklayer Accidents on Construction Sites in New York

Masonry and bricklaying are fundamental aspects of construction in New York. They involve installing bricks, blocks, and other materials to create structures. While masonry work is vital, it is also fraught with risks, leading to accidents and injuries. Recognizing the causes of these accidents can help enhance safety measures and reduce incidents on construction sites.

Falls from Heights

Masonry workers often perform tasks at significant heights, such as on scaffolding or ladders. Falls from heights are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in masonry work. Contributing factors include:

  • Inadequate Fall Protection: The absence of guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems increases the risk of falls.
  • Improperly Erected Scaffolding: Scaffolding that is not properly installed or maintained can collapse or tip over, leading to severe falls.
  • Ladder Safety Issues: Using ladders that are damaged, unstable, or improperly positioned can result in falls.

Material Handling Hazards

Masonry work involves handling heavy materials such as bricks and blocks, which can lead to accidents if not managed properly. Key risks include:

  • Musculoskeletal Injuries: Lifting heavy materials without proper techniques can lead to strains, sprains, or more severe musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Dropped Materials: Workers may drop heavy materials from heights, posing risks to those below. Lack of adequate lifting equipment or failure to communicate during material transfers can exacerbate this risk.

Equipment Failures

The use of machinery and tools in masonry work is essential but comes with risks. Equipment failures can cause accidents, including:

  • Faulty Power Tools: Tools with defective safety features, dull blades, or improper maintenance can lead to injuries such as cuts, lacerations, or electrical shocks.
  • Improper Use of Equipment: Using equipment inappropriately or without proper training can increase the likelihood of accidents.

Poor Training and Supervision

Inadequate training and lack of supervision can significantly contribute to accidents on construction sites. Factors include:

  • Lack of Safety Training: Workers who are not adequately trained in safety protocols, proper equipment use, and hazard recognition may be more prone to accidents.
  • Insufficient Supervision: Lack of oversight can lead to unsafe practices going uncorrected, increasing the risk of accidents.

Environmental Factors

Construction sites are often exposed to various environmental hazards that can contribute to masonry accidents:

  • Slippery or Uneven Surfaces: Wet, muddy, or uneven ground can lead to slips, trips, and falls.
  • Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or high winds, can increase the risks associated with masonry work.

Hazardous Materials Exposure

Masonry workers may be exposed to hazardous materials that can lead to health issues or accidents, including:

  • Silica Dust: Cutting and grinding materials can release silica dust, which poses serious health risks, including lung disease.
  • Chemicals and Mortar: Exposure to hazardous chemicals in mortar and adhesives can cause skin irritations or respiratory problems.

Lack of Communication

Poor communication among foremen, supervisors, and workers can contribute to accidents in masonry work. Issues include:

  • Misunderstandings: Failure to communicate about tasks, equipment, or hazards can lead to accidents.
  • Inadequate Signaling: Lack of proper signaling during material handling or crane operations can result in dropped loads or collisions.
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New York Labor Laws Protecting the Rights of Masonry and Bricklayer Workers on Construction Sites

Masonry and bricklaying are physically demanding professions that expose workers to various hazards on construction sites. New York labor laws are designed to protect the rights of these workers, ensuring they have avenues for compensation in the event of personal injury due to workplace accidents.

New York Labor Law § 200 - General Duty of Employers

  • Overview: Labor Law § 200 mandates that employers provide a safe working environment for their employees. This includes the duty to keep construction sites free from hazards that could cause injury.
  • Implications: If masonry or bricklayer workers are injured due to unsafe conditions, they may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit against their employer for violating this duty.

New York Labor Law § 240 - Scaffold Law

Overview: Labor Law § 240, commonly referred to as the Scaffold Law, specifically protects construction workers from gravity-related hazards, including falls from heights.

Key Provisions:

  • Employer Liability: Employers are strictly liable for injuries that occur due to inadequate fall protection, regardless of whether they were negligent.
  • Rights of Workers: Masonry and bricklayer workers who fall from scaffolds or ladders due to a lack of proper safety measures can sue their employers for damages.

New York Labor Law § 241 - Safety Standards

  • Overview: Labor Law § 241 requires that construction sites adhere to specific safety standards set forth by the New York State Industrial Code.
  • Implications: If workers are injured due to a violation of these safety standards, they can pursue a personal injury claim against their employer. This law provides a framework for establishing negligence based on non-compliance with safety regulations.

New York Workers' Compensation Law

Overview: Under New York Workers' Compensation Law, injured workers are entitled to receive benefits for medical expenses and lost wages due to work-related injuries, including those sustained by masonry and bricklayer workers.

Key Provisions:

  • No-Fault System: Workers can receive compensation regardless of fault, which provides a safety net for injured workers.
  • Right to Sue: While workers typically cannot sue their employer for negligence if they receive workers' compensation, they retain the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against third parties whose negligence contributed to their injuries.

Third-Party Liability Claims

  • Overview: In addition to employer liability, masonry and bricklayer workers may pursue claims against third parties, such as equipment manufacturers or contractors, if their negligence contributed to an injury.
  • Implications: If a worker is injured due to defective equipment or unsafe conditions created by a third party, they can file a lawsuit seeking additional compensation beyond workers' compensation benefits.

The Right to Fair Compensation

  • Overview: New York labor laws emphasize the right of workers to receive fair compensation for injuries sustained while performing their jobs.
  • Implications: Masonry and bricklayer workers have the legal right to pursue damages for medical expenses, wage losses, pain and suffering, and other related costs resulting from their injuries.

Get Our Seasoned Masonry Accident Lawyer NYC on Your Side

If you have been injured in a masonry or bricklayer accident, you need a skilled and passionate NYC masonry accident lawyer like Michael S. Lamonsoff, Esq., "The Bull," fighting for your rights. At the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, no case is too big or too small. With a fierce, “no holds barred” approach, Mr. Lamonsoff has achieved some of the highest settlements and verdicts in New York, winning over $500 million for his clients.

Insurance companies are afraid to take him to trial, and for good reason — he has a formidable courtroom reputation and a record of large jury verdicts. Don’t let negligence go unpunished — reach out to "The Bull" and his powerhouse legal team today to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 212-962-1020 or fill out this online contact form.

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