Long Island Unsafe Or Dangerous Premises Construction Accident Lawyer
Construction sites pose risks to both workers and passersby when they are not erected or managed safely. While workers’ compensation often covers injuries sustained on the job, many construction accident cases involve the liability of third parties outside of the employee-employer relationship. In such cases, the negligent third party can be sued in civil court for the damages they caused.
One prime example of third-party liability in construction accidents occurs when the accident results from unsafe or dangerous premises where the work is being performed. At Jacobson Law, our experienced New York legal team helps injured workers hold negligent third parties accountable for the dangerous conditions that lead to these serious accidents. Our team routinely tries cases and looks at every case from the start as if it will go to trial. This approach puts our clients in the best position to maximize their recovery, even if their case settles without the need for a trial. Contact Long Island unsafe premises construction accident lawyers at Jacobson Law to learn how we can help.
Third-Party Liability in Construction Accidents
Third-party liability refers to situations where an entity or individual other than the injured party’s employer is responsible for an accident. On construction sites, third-party liability often arises when property owners, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or other non-employers create hazardous conditions that contribute to injuries. In these cases, injured parties may be able to pursue compensation beyond what is available through workers’ compensation by filing a personal injury claim against the responsible third party.
Common Unsafe or Dangerous Premises Leading to Construction Accidents
Construction sites in New York are subject to strict safety regulations. However, when property owners or contractors fail to adhere to these regulations, unsafe or dangerous premises can develop, leading to accidents such as:
- Falls from Heights: Scaffolding collapses, unsafe ladders and unprotected edges can lead to catastrophic falls. If the equipment or structures that caused the fall were negligently installed or maintained by a third party, the injured worker may have grounds for a claim. In addition, New York’s scaffold law makes property owners, along with developers and contractors, absolutely liable for fall injuries when necessary safety precautions were not taken, without having to prove negligence.
- Falling Debris: Loose or improperly secured materials, tools, or equipment can fall from heights, severely injuring those below. When a subcontractor or equipment supplier fails to secure materials, they may be liable for resulting injuries. The scaffold law applies to falling object injuries as well, meaning property owners are absolutely liable for injuries caused by their failings.
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Construction sites often feature uneven ground, exposed wiring, and debris, creating significant trip hazards. When these conditions are left unaddressed due to the negligence of the property owner, the injured party may pursue legal action.
- Structural Failures: Collapses of walls, roofs, or other structures during construction can result in severe injuries. These failures often stem from design flaws, negligent construction practices, or improper material use, making third-party liability a key component in recovering damages.
Third-party premises liability claims in construction accidents might not apply when the defect on the premises is the reason for the construction project in the first place. But when workers are on-site for a different purpose, property owners can be liable for failing to notify the workers about dangers on the property or failing to promptly remedy any hazards that arise.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Unsafe Premises?
Various third parties may be held responsible for dangerous or unsafe premises at a construction site, including:
- Property Owners: Under New York law, property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions on their premises, including when construction is ongoing. If a property owner fails to uphold this duty and a worker or passerby is injured, they may be held liable for negligence.
- General Contractors and Subcontractors: Both general contractors and subcontractors are responsible for maintaining safe work environments. When they fail to implement proper safety measures or supervise the worksite adequately, they may be held accountable for injuries caused by their negligence.
- Architects and Engineers: If a design flaw or structural oversight contributes to unsafe conditions at the construction site, architects or engineers involved in the project may be found liable.
Compensation for Victims of Unsafe Construction Premises
Construction workers injured due to unsafe premises can pursue compensation through a third-party personal injury claim. Damages may include medical expenses, lost wages and loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, loss of quality of life, and other legal damages available under New York personal injury law.
By filing a third-party claim, injured individuals may secure compensation beyond what is typically available through workers’ compensation, providing financial relief that better addresses the long-term consequences of their injuries.
How Jacobson Law Can Help
At Jacobson Law, we understand the complexities of construction accident cases involving third-party liability. Our legal team has the experience and dedication necessary to investigate unsafe premises and hold negligent parties accountable through intensive litigation, whether the process leads to an out-of-court settlement or trial and jury verdict. If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe conditions at a construction site, our firm is ready to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Contact Jacobson Law today at 631-661-2030 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights following a New York construction accident caused by unsafe or dangerous premises.
