Any fall from a ladder or from other heights can result in serious injuries to the back, spinal cord, head and other areas of the body. Construction workers are more vulnerable to ladder falls than other types of workers, and the injuries caused by these accidents can be enough to keep workers from returning to the job. These injuries also often require extensive medical treatment, especially when falls happen at extreme heights.
At the law firm of Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman LLP, our attorneys have extensive experience working with a wide range of personal injury claims stemming out of construction accidents in New York. We have recovered significant settlements and verdicts for our clients and continue to provide effective advocacy for workers and families who have been impacted by construction accidents.
If you were injured in a ladder accident, call us at (212) 684-1880 to speak with a proven New York ladder fall accident lawyer.
After a construction site accident, it is critical to identify responsible parties and their potential liabilities. Victims of these accidents often face catastrophic injuries—which can not only affect quality of life, but require a lifetime of care and medical expenses.
We will review the circumstances of your accident to determine who was at fault, whether any safety mechanisms were in place, and who should be held liable to compensate you for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. The first step is the get in touch with our dedicated and experienced New York construction accident attorneys today.
Ladder accidents on construction sites rarely occur without warning. Often, these incidents are the result of multiple compounding factors that could have been prevented with proper protocols, supervision, and equipment.
One of the most frequent causes of ladder falls is the improper setup of the ladder itself. Construction workers may be forced to use ladders on uneven ground, fail to secure the base, or lean them against unstable surfaces. Inadequate angle or improper ladder length also increases the risk of falls. When employers fail to provide guidance or a safe working environment, they may be liable under New York law.
A ladder that is bent, cracked, missing parts, or otherwise structurally unsound poses a serious hazard. Construction companies are legally obligated to inspect and maintain all equipment, including ladders. When manufacturers distribute defective ladders or employers fail to replace broken ones, workers may be seriously injured. Product liability and negligence laws may both apply.
Ladder safety training is not optional—it is a legal requirement under OSHA regulations and New York labor laws. When workers are not properly trained in ladder selection, use, and safety procedures, accidents become far more likely. The absence of supervision further compounds the risk, particularly when workers are assigned tasks beyond their training or physical capability.
Rain, wind, snow, and poor lighting are all environmental factors that can make ladder use hazardous. Construction employers have a duty to monitor weather conditions and stop or modify work when ladders become unsafe. Failure to provide proper footwear, non-slip mats, or alternate access methods during inclement weather can contribute directly to ladder falls.
Construction workers injured in ladder falls may be entitled to far more than workers’ compensation. In New York, special legal protections provide stronger remedies for injured workers—especially under Labor Law Section 240.
Commonly known as the Scaffold Law, New York Labor Law § 240 holds property owners and contractors strictly liable when workers are injured due to elevation-related hazards like ladder falls. This law applies regardless of whether the injured party contributed to the accident in some way. Under this statute, a worker injured in a ladder fall may bring a civil lawsuit for full compensation—including pain and suffering—which is not available through workers’ comp.
Injured construction workers typically qualify for workers’ compensation, which covers medical bills and a portion of lost wages. However, in many cases, you may also have a valid third-party lawsuit against a negligent subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner. These third-party claims can result in significantly greater compensation and should be evaluated by an experienced construction accident attorney.
In New York, the statute of limitations to file a personal injury lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, this time frame may vary based on factors such as who the defendant is (e.g., a municipal entity) and the type of claim. If your case falls under Labor Law § 240, or if you are also seeking workers’ compensation, different timelines may apply. It’s critical to speak with a lawyer promptly to protect your rights.
Ladder fall accidents are preventable with the right safety practices in place. Employers and site managers must implement strict safety measures that comply with both state and federal regulations.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides clear guidelines for ladder use on construction sites, including rules on weight capacity, securing ladders, and safe climbing techniques. Employers are responsible for enforcing these standards and ensuring that ladders meet OSHA specifications.
In addition to the ladder itself, safety harnesses, fall arrest systems, non-slip footwear, and guardrails are often necessary. Failure to provide or enforce the use of this equipment may constitute negligence under both OSHA regulations and New York labor law.
Daily and pre-use inspections are critical for identifying worn-out or unsafe ladders. Workers should be trained to spot missing rungs, cracks, rust, and other defects—and to report them immediately. Supervisors should document inspections and remove defective ladders from use without delay.
Ladder fall injuries can result in long-term physical, emotional, and financial harm. Victims of negligence are entitled to a broad range of damages to help them rebuild their lives.
From emergency care and hospitalization to surgery and physical therapy, medical costs after a ladder fall can be staggering. A personal injury claim can help ensure that current and future medical needs are fully covered.
When an injury keeps you from working, your financial stability is at risk. Compensation can include lost income and, in more serious cases, loss of future earning capacity—particularly if you’re unable to return to construction work or must take a lower-paying job.
Pain and suffering damages compensate for the physical pain, mental anguish, and diminished quality of life that often result from serious construction injuries. These damages are only available through a lawsuit—not through workers’ compensation.
Rehabilitation may include occupational therapy, counseling, or even home modifications for those with long-term disabilities. These costs can be included in a legal claim, helping ensure comprehensive support as you recover.
Not all personal injury attorneys are equally qualified to handle these types of cases. These claims often involve unique legal doctrines, extensive investigation, and aggressive opposition from insurance carriers.
Proving liability in a ladder fall case requires swift action. A qualified attorney will secure job site records, witness statements, safety inspection logs, medical documentation, and expert analysis to build a strong case on your behalf.
Insurance carriers will often try to minimize your compensation or deny liability altogether. An experienced ladder fall attorney knows how to counter these tactics and negotiate assertively for a fair settlement.
At Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman LLP, we have successfully represented numerous construction workers injured in falls from ladders, scaffolds, and elevated surfaces. Our team understands the unique legal protections available under New York law and has recovered substantial compensation for injured workers and their families.
Use our online form to request a free case evaluation with our team now.
