Staten Island Scaffolding Accident Lawyers

Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP

If you or a loved one was injured in a scaffolding accident in Staten Island, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Our team at Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP understands the devastating effects that these types of accidents have on victims and their families. We are here to help you obtain the maximum compensation you are owed.

Our Staten Island scaffolding attorneys are experienced in handling New York scaffolding accident claims. We understand the complexities of these cases and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

Contact us online or call (646) 692-0204 to schedule a free consultation.

What is Scaffolding?

Scaffolding is a temporary structure that is erected at construction sites, industrial facilities, and other work environments to provide a safe and elevated platform for workers, tools, and materials. Its primary purpose is to facilitate construction, maintenance, repair, and inspection tasks at heights that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Scaffolding serves several essential functions:

• Safety: Scaffolding provides a secure working platform for construction and maintenance workers, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. It includes features like guardrails, toe boards, and fall protection systems to enhance safety.
• Access: Scaffolds offer access to various parts of a building or structure, making it easier for workers to reach elevated areas for tasks such as painting, welding, bricklaying, or electrical work.
• Work Efficiency: Scaffolding improves work efficiency by reducing the time it takes for workers to move up and down from elevated areas. It also allows multiple workers to operate simultaneously on different levels, enhancing productivity.
• Versatility: Scaffolding can be adapted to suit different project requirements. It comes in various types and configurations, such as suspended scaffolds, mobile scaffolds, and fixed scaffolds, each designed for specific applications.
• Safety for Passersby: In addition to worker safety, scaffolding also helps protect people passing by the construction site from falling debris and tools, enhancing overall safety.

Scaffolding components typically include:

• Standards: Vertical support columns or posts that provide structural stability.
• Ledgers: Horizontal components that connect standards and provide the scaffold's frame structure.
• Transoms: Horizontal or diagonal members that enhance the stability of the scaffold structure.
• Platform/Decking: The working surface on which workers stand, which can be made of wood, metal, or other materials.
• Guardrails: Protective barriers along the edge of the platform to prevent falls.
• Toe Boards: Barriers along the edge of the platform to prevent tools and materials from falling.
• Bracing: Diagonal braces and ties that reinforce the scaffold's stability.
• Base Plates: Plates that rest on the ground and distribute the scaffold's weight.
• Access Ladders and Stairs: These facilitate safe access to different levels of the scaffold.

What is a Scaffolding Accident?

A scaffolding accident refers to an incident in which a scaffold, a temporary structure typically used in construction and maintenance to support workers and materials at elevated heights, fails or collapses, leading to injuries or fatalities. These accidents can have severe consequences, including injuries to workers, damage to property, and even loss of life.

Scaffolding accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, and common causes include:

• Improper Assembly: One of the most frequent causes of scaffolding accidents is the incorrect assembly of the scaffold components. If the scaffold is not put together according to the manufacturer's instructions and safety regulations, it can become unstable and prone to collapse.
• Overloading: Scaffolds have weight limits that should not be exceeded. Overloading a scaffold with too many workers, tools, or materials can cause it to collapse.
• Poor Maintenance: Neglecting the maintenance and inspection of scaffolding can lead to accidents. Over time, wear and tear, rust, or damaged components can weaken the scaffold's integrity.
• Inadequate Training: Workers who use scaffolds should receive proper training in scaffold erection, use, and safety procedures. Inexperienced or improperly trained workers may inadvertently create hazardous conditions.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: High winds, rain, snow, or icy conditions can destabilize scaffolding, making it more susceptible to accidents. It is essential to take weather conditions into account when using scaffolds.
• Lack of Guardrails and Fall Protection: Scaffolds should be equipped with guardrails and fall protection measures to prevent workers from falling off the platform. The absence of these safety features can lead to accidents.
• Unauthorized Modifications: Unauthorized alterations or modifications to the scaffold can compromise its structural integrity. Only trained professionals should make any changes to the scaffold design.
• Poor Foundation and Ground Conditions: An unstable or uneven foundation can cause a scaffold to tilt or collapse. It's essential to ensure that the ground is level and capable of supporting the scaffold's weight.
• Inadequate Inspections: Routine inspections of scaffolding are crucial to identifying potential issues before they become accidents. If inspections are neglected or not conducted properly, hazards may go unnoticed.
• Communication and Coordination: Failure to communicate effectively among workers, contractors, and supervisors can lead to accidents. Coordinated efforts are needed to ensure the scaffold is used safely.

Seeking Damages in Scaffolding Accidents in New York

In New York, employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance. If you are injured on the job, you can file a workers' compensation claim.

Here are the steps:

• Notify your employer: Inform your employer about your injury and intention to file a workers' compensation claim. Your employer should provide you with the necessary forms.
• Complete the claim forms: Fill out the appropriate workers' compensation forms, which may include the C-3 form. You can get these forms from your employer, the New York State Workers' Compensation Board website, or a Workers' Compensation Board office.
• Submit the claim: File the completed forms with the Workers' Compensation Board. It's advisable to consult with an attorney during this process to ensure you complete the forms correctly.
• Await a decision: The Workers' Compensation Board will review your claim and determine your eligibility for benefits. If approved, you may receive medical benefits and compensation for lost wages.

In some scaffolding accident cases, a third party (someone other than your employer or co-workers) may be partially or fully responsible for the accident. In these cases, you can pursue a third-party liability claim for additional compensation. This might include contractors, property owners, equipment manufacturers, or other parties.

If you or a loved one was injured in a scaffold accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Staten Island scaffolding accident attorneys understand the devastating effects that these types of accidents have on victims and their families. We are here to help you obtain the maximum compensation you are owed.

Call (646) 692-0204 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Staten Island scaffolding accident lawyers.