Injured in a Queens, NY Scaffold Accident or Fall ?
Dangerous Heights, Neglected Safety
Every day, construction workers in Queens climb scaffolds to do their jobs — painting, welding, installing glass, or laying brick. They trust that the platforms they stand on are secure. Yet all too often, scaffolds are built in a rush, missing guardrails or faulty planks, leaving workers exposed to devastating falls.
Scaffold accidents are among the leading causes of serious construction injuries in New York. Whether on a midtown high-rise or a renovation project in Jamaica, one slip, one missing safety harness, or one unstable plank can send a worker falling multiple stories.
And the tragedy? Most of these accidents are preventable.
When supervisors cut corners, contractors ignore safety protocols, or equipment fails, innocent workers suffer life-changing injuries — and families lose their financial stability overnight.
The Real Cost of a Scaffold Fall
A scaffold fall doesn’t just leave bruises — it can leave you unable to walk, work, or provide for your family. Medical bills stack up, your paycheck disappears, and your employer’s insurance starts looking for loopholes.
You might hear things like:
“You should’ve been more careful.”
“We’re still investigating.”
“It’s covered by workers’ comp — you can’t sue.”
But they’re not telling you the whole truth.
Under New York Labor Law 240(1) — the Scaffold Law — property owners and general contractors have a strict legal duty to protect workers working at heights. If they failed to provide proper safety gear or secure equipment, they can be held 100% liable for your injuries.
You risked your life to build New York. You shouldn’t have to risk your future to pay your bills.
Common Causes of Scaffold Accidents in Queens
Even with strict regulations, scaffold accidents happen every week across New York. Most are caused by violations of basic safety standards:
Improper assembly or unstable construction
Defective or missing safety harnesses
Loose or rotted planks
Collapsed supports or frames
Falling tools and debris
Overloading scaffolds beyond their rated capacity
Inadequate worker training or supervision
Defective scaffolding materials or equipment
Failure to inspect before use
Unsafe weather conditions (wind, ice, or rain)
Every one of these causes can be traced back to negligence — and under New York law, negligence means liability.
Common Injuries from Scaffold Falls
Scaffold falls often result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. Victims we’ve represented have suffered:
Broken or crushed bones
Spinal cord damage and paralysis
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Severe back and neck injuries
Internal bleeding and organ damage
Amputations and crush trauma
Shoulder, hip, and joint injuries
Burns or lacerations from debris and equipment
Chronic pain and psychological trauma
These injuries don’t just change your body — they change your entire life. We work to ensure your compensation reflects every aspect of that loss.
Understanding New York’s Scaffold Law (Labor Law 240)
New York’s Scaffold Law exists because construction is dangerous — and workers deserve protection.
Under Labor Law §240(1), contractors and property owners must provide workers with adequate safety devices, such as scaffolds, hoists, harnesses, and guardrails. If they fail to do so, and a worker is injured in a fall or struck by falling objects, they are strictly liable — regardless of who directly caused the accident.
This law applies to construction, renovation, maintenance, painting, and demolition projects across Queens and New York City.
Our firm has extensive experience using the Scaffold Law to hold corporations accountable — and we’ve recovered millions for injured workers who were told they “had no case.”
Who Is Responsible for Your Queens Scaffold Accident?
In scaffold injury cases, more than one party may share responsibility. Our investigation often uncovers negligence by:
Property owners who failed to maintain a safe site
General contractors who ignored safety codes
Subcontractors who improperly erected scaffolds
Equipment manufacturers that sold defective components
Safety inspectors who overlooked violations
We identify every liable party — so you can recover every dollar you deserve.
Types of Compensation Available
You may be entitled to recover compensation for:
Medical bills and ongoing care
Lost wages and reduced earning potential
Pain and suffering
Emotional trauma and anxiety
Permanent disability or scarring
Loss of quality of life
Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed in a scaffold fall)
Unlike workers’ compensation, a third-party lawsuit under the Scaffold Law allows you to pursue full damages for pain, suffering, and future losses.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims
Workers’ compensation covers your immediate needs — medical treatment and partial wages — but it’s not enough to make you whole.
If someone other than your direct employer caused the unsafe condition (such as a contractor, property owner, or scaffold manufacturer), you can file a third-party personal injury lawsuit for full compensation.
Our firm handles both claims in tandem, ensuring your benefits and lawsuit complement one another — maximizing your recovery while protecting your rights.
Steps to Take After a Scaffold Fall
If you’ve been injured, here’s what to do immediately:
Get medical treatment — even if you think you’re fine.
Report the incident to your employer or site supervisor.
Take photos and videos of the site and scaffold.
Get witness names and contact info.
Do not sign or record any statements from insurers.
Contact a Queens scaffold accident attorney before speaking with anyone else.
Quick legal action preserves evidence and prevents contractors from covering up violations.
Why Choose The Injury Group
Proven track record of winning major construction and scaffold cases.
Deep understanding of Labor Law 240(1) and construction site safety.
Aggressive trial lawyers who fight insurance companies head-on.
Millions recovered for New York construction workers.
Compassionate, honest guidance every step of the way.
No fees unless we win.
We’ve built our reputation by fighting — and winning — for the people who build New York.
The Legal Process — Step by Step
Free Consultation: We review your case and explain your legal options.
Investigation: Our team gathers evidence and secures expert opinions.
Filing Claims: We handle both workers’ comp and third-party lawsuits.
Negotiation: We pressure insurers to pay full and fair settlements.
Litigation: If they refuse, we take your case to court.
Resolution: You get the justice and compensation you deserve.
We communicate with you throughout, so you always know what’s happening and where your case stands.
The Construction Legacy of Queens, NY
Queens has always been a borough built by its workers — from the factories of Long Island City to the high-rises of Flushing and the new terminals at JFK Airport. Its skyline tells the story of decades of hard labor, sacrifice, and pride.
Today’s construction crews continue that legacy, building housing, schools, and infrastructure that shape the city’s future. At The Injury Group, we fight to protect those who risk everything to build the world above us. Because every beam, every scaffold, and every worker deserves to stand strong.
Types of Covered Work Related Injuries in NY
Work-related injuries (Worker’s Compensation) covered by legal compensation typically include a wide range of incidents and conditions such as:
- Overuse and repetitive stress injuries
- Spine injuries
- Broken bones
- Head or brain injuries
- Vision and hearing loss
- Burns
- Cuts and lacerations
- Respiratory illnesses
- Mental health conditions, such as PTSD
Causes of Work Related Injuries in Workers Comp Cases in NY
Injuries at the work place can result from various factors, often stemming from a combination of negligence, inadequate safety measures, and unforeseen circumstances. When such accidents occur, individuals may sustain severe injuries, ranging from fractures and lacerations to traumatic brain injuries or even fatalities.
Common causes to work related injuries include but not limited to:
Slip, trips, and falls: These are the most common causes of work accidents, often caused by slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or cluttered workspaces.
Struck by objects: Workers can be injured by objects falling from above or being struck by moving objects like vehicles, equipment, or tools.
Overexertion: Injuries can occur due to overexertion, including lifting heavy objects, pulling or pushing heavy loads, or repetitive motions that cause strain.
Equipment failure: Defective or malfunctioning equipment can cause serious injuries, particularly if proper maintenance and safety protocols are not in place.
Fire and explosions: Workers in certain industries, such as manufacturing or construction, may be at risk of fires or explosions, particularly if hazardous chemicals are present.
Electrical accidents: Electricians and other workers who come into contact with electrical wiring and equipment may be at risk of electrical shocks or electrocution.
Vehicle accidents: Workers who drive or operate vehicles, such as truck drivers or forklift operators, may be at risk of accidents and injuries on the job.
Workplace violence: In some industries, such as healthcare and retail, workers may be at risk of violence from clients, customers, or coworkers.
Exposure to hazardous materials: Workers who handle hazardous materials or work in environments where they are present may be at risk of exposure, which can lead to long-term illnesses or injuries.
Repetitive stress injuries: Workers who perform the same motion repeatedly, such as typing or assembly line work, may develop injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis due to overuse.
Poor workplace safety standards, inadequate training, and insufficient protective equipment can exacerbate these risks, leading to significant injuries. The Injury Group, a highly regarded law firm, excels in managing such cases across New York, New Jersey, and Long Island. With their comprehensive expertise in workers’ compensation law and a strong dedication to their clients, the lawyers at The Injury Group are proficient in identifying the causes of workplace injuries and securing the rightful compensation for affected employees, thereby supporting their recovery and financial well-being.
Do I Quality for Compensation For My Work Place Injury?
Workers’ compensation claims can be a difficult process to navigate. If you have suffered an on-the-job injury, do not wait to seek medical attention or to inform your employer of the incident. Failing to report the injury or attempting to seek timely medical help could result in the loss of your benefits. In the state of New York, on-the-job injuries must be reported within 30 days to seek workers’ compensation; it is important to note that this means you just have to report your accident within 30 days, not decide whether or not you want to file an injury claim for workers’ compensation. Once you have reported your accident, you have up to 2 years to file a workers’ compensation claim if an injury develops or worsens. If workers’ compensation doesn’t cover all the necessary expenses brought about by your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against other responsible parties. In this case, you have up to 3 years to file your claim.
If you are injured, it is crucial to keep details confidential between yourself and your lawyer. Avoid discussing the incident with other involved parties, such as potentially responsible companies, insurance companies, and their lawyers. Your lawyer represents your interests, while other parties may attempt to use your statements against you. Even casual comments to friends or on social media can be detrimental to your case. For example, saying “I’m sorry” could be misconstrued as an admission of fault, and downplaying your injuries could weaken your claim of their severity. The lawyers at The Injury Group, renowned for handling work-related injury cases in New York, New Jersey, and Long Island, are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
Our Legal Process
The Injury Group’s work related accident lawyers can answer any questions you may have about your case, as well as inform you how much your case may be worth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Work Injuries And Workers Comp Cases In New York
In general, workers' compensation benefits cover medical expenses and wage replacement, and may also provide compensation for permanent disability. The amount of benefits received will depend on the severity of the injury. Our attorneys will review your case and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
The Injury Group can help you pursue damages for the losses and expenses you have incurred as a result of your injury, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or disability.
While you are not required to have an attorney file a workers’ compensation claim for you, it is highly recommended you seek the advice of an expert. Working with an attorney at The Injury Group who specializes in work accidents can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and can help you navigate the claims process with confidence.
The statute of limitations for filing a workers’ compensation claim varies by state, but in New York, on-the-job injuries must be reported within 30 days to seek workers’ compensation; it is important to note that this means you just have to report your accident within 30 days, not decide whether or not you want to file an injury claim for workers’ compensation. Once you have reported your accident, you have up to 2 years to file a workers’ compensation claim if an injury develops or worsens. If workers’ compensation doesn’t cover all the necessary expenses brought about by your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against other responsible parties. In this case, you have up to 3 years to file your claim.
Liability for a work accident will depend on the specific circumstances of the incident. In most cases, the employer may be held liable for a work accident that occurs on-the-job, as employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment for their employees. If a coworker or third party (such as a vendor or contractor) was negligent or reckless and caused the accident, they may be held liable. It is important to note that workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job, regardless of who is at fault.