Hudson Valley Scaffold Accidents Lawyer

Lawyer handles workers’ compensation claims in Dutchess County and other locations

Thousands of construction workers are injured every year and several dozen are killed in scaffold accidents. In Ulster County and throughout New York State, Peter M. Cordovano, P.C. fights on behalf of these victims and their families so that they can obtain the medical care they need and collect a financial recovery that makes up for the income lost. Located in Highland, my firm has provided comprehensive legal support to injured employees for almost 40 years. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a scaffold collapse, a fall or some other incident, I am here to help. 

Reasons that scaffold accidents occur

When a scaffold accident occurs, the commotion can make it difficult at first to determine the cause. With decades of experience representing victims of construction accidents, I can investigate the facts and see if one of the following factors led to the incident:

• Structural collapse — Each scaffold must be constructed in a matter that will adequately support the weight of laborers, tools and materials.
• Improper assembly — Failure to assemble a scaffold properly could lead to a plank or rail giving way, potentially causing a fall from heights. 
• Defective equipment — Even well-constructed scaffolds might give way if the equipment used to erect them is substandard. 
• Inadequate safety measures — Safety harnesses, gloves and other personal protective equipment should be worn by everyone working on scaffold. Windy or slippery conditions might require additional safety measures or postponement of that day’s work. 

My firm is dedicated to helping injured workers and surviving family members secure the compensation they’re entitled to after a scaffold failure. 

Types of injuries resulting from scaffolding accidents

Falling from a scaffold can inflict various types of injuries on a victim, including conditions that result in paralysis or death. Claimants in scaffold accident cases often require treatment for broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage and internal injuries. I consult with medical experts when warranted to fully assess the severity of injuries and so to increase the likelihood of a favorable result for victims and their families. 

Litigating claims under New York’s Scaffold Law

New York’s Scaffold Law, dating back to 1885, holds property owners and contractors accountable when workers are injured due to violations of safety requirements. My firm advises victims of scaffold accidents about all of the potential avenues of legal relief available to them, including workers’ compensation, Scaffold Law claims and third-party personal injury lawsuits against others who might have contributed to their injuries. From there, I work diligently to secure the full amount to which clients are entitled based on the circumstances of their case. 

Scaffold safety best practices 

The specific nature and function of the scaffold will determine what safety measures must be taken. Guardrails and personal protective equipment such as harnesses may be required. In every case, the scaffold must be assembled in accordance with OSHA standards and the structure must be able to safely support the weight of workers and materials. Laborers who build and work upon the scaffold have to be properly trained regarding accident avoidance as well. Though accidents can occur even when necessary precautions are taken, my firm will review inspection reports and other evidence to evaluate whether a lapse in safety protocols played a role in the accident. 

Contact a New York scaffold accident attorney for a free consultation 

Peter M. Cordovano, P.C. in Highland represents workers throughout New York State in claims arising from scaffold accident injuries. To schedule a free consultation with an accomplished attorney, please call 845-640-3846 or contact me online.