The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff employs an unrelenting approach to get our clients the justice they deserve. Our scaffold accidents attorneys in New York will employ vigorous negotiation tactics to produce a successful settlement, or we will take your case all the way to trial. In either case, we have won exceptional awards for our clients who were victims of slip and fall or trip and fall accidents.
Scaffolding Accidents
Scaffolding is a temporary structure used to support workers and materials during construction, maintenance, or repair of buildings and other structures. It’s an essential component of many job sites, particularly in a city like New York, where high-rise construction is constant. With that said, scaffolding poses significant risks to workers if not properly assembled, maintained, or used.
Scaffolding accidents are a major contributor to construction site injuries and fatalities. Workers who perform their duties on scaffolds face hazards such as falls, collapsing structures, electrocutions, and being struck by falling objects. Given the high volume of construction projects in New York, strict safety regulations are in place to prevent accidents, but violations of these rules still lead to severe injuries and deaths every year.
Over Half A Billion in Verdicts & Settlements for Our Clients
Why Choose Our NYC Construction Accident Lawyer "The Bull" for Your Case?
Michael S. Lamonsoff, the founder and owner of the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC, is a powerhouse in New York construction accident litigation. Known as "The Bull" for his relentless, aggressive legal strategy, he fights tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for injured workers. His fearless, no-nonsense advocacy has resulted in some of the highest settlements and verdicts in New York State history.
With a track record of multi-million-dollar victories, Michael S. Lamonsoff is a distinguished member of the Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an elite group of trial attorneys who have secured substantial case results.
Formidable Record in NYC Construction Accident Cases
- $37,000,000 – Awarded to an elevator mechanic injured in a construction accident.
- $7,000,000 – Secured for a construction laborer injured by falling metal sheets.
- $6,500,000 – Settlement for a union construction worker who fell from an unsecured ladder.
- $5,500,000 – Verdict for a worker injured when a wooden bracing collapsed in a ditch.
Clients consistently praise his dedication, legal expertise, and results, making him one of the highest-rated attorneys on leading online lawyer review platforms.
No case is too large or too complex for his firm—every client receives the full force of his aggressive representation.
When construction accidents leave workers injured or unable to provide for their families, Michael S. Lamonsoff and his team step in to fight for justice.
If you or a loved one has suffered a construction-related injury, contact The Bull to recover the largest possible financial compensation you are owed.
Common Causes of Scaffolding Accidents
Many scaffolding accidents result from safety violations, poor construction, or failure to follow OSHA regulations. Some of the most frequent causes include:
Insufficient or Lack of On-the-Job Training
Workers who are not properly trained in scaffold assembly and use are at higher risk of accidents.
Improper Construction
Failing to follow manufacturer guidelines or safety standards when assembling scaffolds can lead to collapses.
Inadequate Fall Protection
Lack of guardrails, harnesses, or personal protective equipment (PPE) increases the likelihood of falls.
Ignoring Safety Rules
Workers or supervisors who bypass safety measures put everyone at risk.
Weak Planking
Substandard or worn-out planks can break under pressure, leading to falls or collapses.
Failures at Attachment Points and Parts Failure
Loose or defective components can cause scaffolds to become unstable.
Insecure Bracing
Poorly braced scaffolds may shift or collapse under heavy loads.
Defective Equipment
Faulty ladders, pulleys, or suspension ropes contribute to accidents.
Changing Environmental Conditions
Extreme temperatures, heavy winds, rain, or snow can weaken scaffolding structures, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions on Scaffolding Accident Claims in NYC
Can I file a claim if I was injured while assembling or dismantling a scaffold?
Yes, workers injured while assembling or dismantling scaffolding may have a strong claim under New York Labor Law §240(1), which specifically protects workers engaged in erection, demolition, repairing, altering, painting, or cleaning tasks involving scaffolds. The law holds property owners, their agents, and contractors strictly liable for scaffolding-related injuries, even during setup or takedown.
What if the scaffold was rented from a third-party company—who is liable?
If the scaffolding was rented from an external company, liability may extend beyond your employer. The rental company could be held responsible if the scaffold was defective, improperly maintained, or failed to meet safety standards. Your claim may involve multiple defendants, including contractors, property owners, and equipment providers.
Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing fall protection gear at the time of the accident?
Yes, under New York’s Scaffold Law (Labor Law §240), liability often falls on the property owner or contractor, not the injured worker. Even if you were not wearing a harness or other fall protection, the law generally favors workers and recognizes that employers must provide adequate safety equipment.
Does my immigration status affect my right to file a scaffolding accident claim?
No, your immigration status does not impact your right to seek compensation. New York law protects all workers, regardless of citizenship or work authorization. You can pursue claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages without fear of deportation or retaliation.
Are property owners liable if a scaffold collapses on public sidewalks?
Yes, if a scaffold collapses and injures pedestrians or others near a construction site, property owners, contractors, and scaffold manufacturers may all bear liability. Premises liability laws, along with labor and building codes, require property owners to ensure scaffolds are stable and properly secured.
Can I recover damages if I was hit by a falling object from a scaffold but didn’t fall myself?
Yes, Labor Law §240 protects workers from both falls and falling objects. If a tool, debris, or construction material fell from a scaffold and struck you, you may be entitled to compensation under the law.
What if my scaffolding accident was caused by extreme weather conditions?
If high winds, rain, or snow contributed to your scaffolding accident, liability may still exist if safety protocols were not followed. Employers and contractors must secure scaffolds, monitor weather conditions, and halt work when conditions become hazardous. Failure to do so could make them liable for your injuries.
Can I sue if my loved one died in a scaffolding accident?
Yes, the surviving family members of a worker killed in a scaffolding accident can file a wrongful death claim. Compensation may include funeral expenses, lost future income, medical bills, and damages for the emotional loss suffered by the family.
What is the time limit for filing a scaffolding accident lawsuit in New York?
New York’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the accident date. However, wrongful death claims must be filed within two years. If a government entity is involved, you may have as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim.
Can I still file a claim if my employer is pressuring me not to?
Yes, you have the legal right to file a claim regardless of employer pressure. Retaliation for reporting workplace injuries or filing a claim is illegal in New York. If your employer threatens you, consult a scaffolding accident attorney immediately to protect your rights.
