Buffalo Ladder and Scaffolding Injury Lawyer
Falls from ladders and scaffolding are among the most common and serious hazards on any construction site. For construction workers in Buffalo and across Western New York, these accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, long-term disability, and lost income. If you or a loved one was hurt in a ladder or scaffolding fall, you may be entitled to more than just workers compensation. A personal injury lawsuit may allow you to pursue maximum compensation from property owners, general contractors, or other responsible parties.
At Brown Chiari LLP, our Buffalo construction accident lawyers have decades of experience representing injured workers in complex construction accident cases. We help injured construction workers understand their rights under New York Labor Law and pursue every available source of recovery. Our goal is to protect workers, secure fair compensation, and hold negligent parties accountable.
Ladder and Scaffolding Falls on Construction Sites
Construction sites are dangerous by nature, and working at heights introduces even greater risk. Despite strict safety regulations, ladder and scaffolding falls continue to occur at an alarming rate. These falls often happen because of unstable scaffolding, lack of proper safety equipment, missing guardrails, or defective ladders. Even a fall from a relatively low height can lead to a serious injury, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, or internal trauma.
Injured workers may face extended time away from work, mounting medical bills, and lasting pain. While workers compensation benefits can help cover basic medical expenses and partial wage replacement, they rarely reflect the true cost of a serious workplace injury. That’s why it’s important to speak with a construction accident attorney who understands how to pursue a personal injury claim against negligent third parties.
Legal Protections Under New York Labor Law
New York Labor Law offers strong legal protections for construction workers injured in falls from ladders or scaffolding. Particularly Labor Law §240, also known as the Scaffold Law, places strict liability on property owners and general contractors when workers fall from an elevated height due to missing or inadequate safety devices. If proper safety measures were not in place—such as harnesses, guardrails, or secured scaffolding—the responsible parties may be liable regardless of fault.
Our legal team has extensive knowledge of New York Labor Law and uses these statutes to protect construction workers and recover compensation for the injuries they’ve suffered. Whether you were working on a commercial job site or residential development, if a fall occurred due to the failure to provide proper safety equipment, we will build a case to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Who May Be Liable for a Construction Site Accident?
Construction accidents often involve multiple parties, including general contractors, subcontractors, property owners, and construction companies. Identifying the responsible parties is a key part of any construction accident claim. In many cases, the accident occurred because one or more parties failed to follow safety regulations or did not provide workers with the necessary tools and safety devices to perform their jobs safely.
Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation into how the construction site accident occurred. We gather evidence, review safety logs, examine medical records, and consult with industry experts to build a clear picture of what went wrong and who is at fault. We also ensure that all injuries—whether caused by falling objects, unsafe scaffolding, or a lack of proper fall protection—are properly documented and accounted for in your claim.
Compensation for Injured Construction Workers
Injured workers may be entitled to multiple forms of compensation. In addition to workers compensation benefits, which may cover basic medical treatment and partial lost wages, a personal injury lawsuit allows you to seek damages for pain and suffering, full lost income, future medical expenses, and loss of earning capacity.
Our attorneys pursue maximum compensation for every injured construction worker we represent. We calculate the full financial impact of your injuries and build a strong legal case to demand accountability from negligent parties. Whether you are seeking compensation for ongoing medical treatment, lost wages due to time off work, or permanent disability caused by a fall, our goal is to secure a result that reflects the true cost of your injuries.
Why Choose Brown Chiari LLP?
Brown Chiari LLP is a respected law firm serving Buffalo and Western New York. Our construction accident attorneys have deep experience in litigating ladder and scaffolding fall cases and understand the complex intersection of workers compensation, personal injury law, and labor law. We’ve represented construction accident victims across all trades, including laborers, roofers, painters, and independent contractors.
We know how construction companies and insurance companies operate. They often try to minimize liability or offer as little compensation as possible. Our lawyers are prepared to challenge these tactics and fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
When you hire us, you get a team that handles every aspect of your case—from the legal process to the negotiations with insurance companies. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no legal fees unless we win your case.
Learn how a Buffalo Ladder and Scaffolding Injury Lawyer can help if you’ve been hurt in a fall at a construction site. Call Brown Chiari LLP at (716) 681-7190 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.
Buffalo Ladder and Scaffolding Injury Lawyer FAQs
Can I sue someone other than my employer for a ladder or scaffolding fall?
Yes. If a general contractor, property owner, or equipment supplier failed to follow safety regulations or provided defective equipment, you may have a valid personal injury claim in addition to workers compensation benefits.
What is the New York Scaffold Law?
New York Labor Law §240, known as the Scaffold Law, holds property owners and general contractors strictly liable when workers fall from a height due to missing or inadequate safety protections. It is one of the most worker-friendly laws in the country.
What types of compensation can I recover?
In addition to medical expenses and lost wages covered by workers compensation, a personal injury lawsuit may allow you to recover compensation for pain and suffering, future medical expenses, lost earning potential, and other financial losses.
How do I know who is responsible for my construction site accident?
Our attorneys investigate your case by reviewing the accident scene, interviewing witnesses, analyzing safety records, and consulting with experts. We identify all responsible parties and build a case based on the facts and applicable labor laws.
How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in New York?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, certain claims—especially those involving public entities—may require earlier filing. Contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights.