Tag Archives: construction accident lawyer new york

How to Handle a Building Collapse Accident in Brooklyn

Posted on April 1, 2022 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

How a Building Collapse Lawyer in Brooklyn Can Help After a Construction Accident

A building collapse can happen without warning and leave victims with devastating injuries. Brooklyn and New York City continue to see active construction projects, and when safety standards are ignored, structures can fail with catastrophic consequences.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a structural failure, speaking with a building collapse lawyer in Brooklyn may be essential to protecting your legal rights. These cases often involve complex construction laws, multiple liable parties, and aggressive insurance companies.

An experienced Brooklyn construction accident lawyer can investigate what went wrong and pursue compensation for the harm you have suffered.

What Causes a Building to Collapse in NYC?

Building collapses are rarely unavoidable accidents. In many cases, they result from negligence during construction, renovation, demolition, or property maintenance.

Common causes include:

Structural or architectural design defects
Faulty engineering calculations
Unsafe demolition practices
Use of defective or low-quality building materials
Violations of NYC building codes
Foundation instability
Failure to inspect or repair known structural damage
Fire or water damage that weakens the supports

Although natural disasters can contribute to structural failure, many building collapse accidents in NYC are preventable. When proper safety protocols are not followed, workers, tenants, pedestrians, and bystanders can suffer serious harm.

Who Is Liable in a Building Collapse Case?

Determining liability after a collapse requires a detailed investigation. A building collapse lawyer NYC residents trust will review construction records, permits, inspection reports, and maintenance histories to identify all responsible parties.

Potentially liable parties may include:

Property owners
General contractors
Subcontractors
Construction companies
Architects and engineers
Site supervisors
Building inspectors
Maintenance companies

Under New York Labor Law, injured construction workers may have strong legal protections. A Brooklyn construction accident lawyer can determine whether Labor Law Sections 200, 240, or 241 apply to your case.

Because these cases often involve multiple defendants and technical engineering evidence, having a building collapse lawyer Brooklyn victims can rely on is critical.

Common Injuries in Building Collapse Accidents

When walls, ceilings, or entire structures give way, the injuries are often severe and life-altering.

Victims frequently suffer:

Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries
Broken bones and complex fractures
Crush injuries and amputations
Severe burns
Internal organ damage
Asphyxiation and toxic exposure

Construction workers face especially high risks, but pedestrians and nearby residents may also be injured when debris spreads beyond the job site.

These injuries often require surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, and extended time away from work. In fatal cases, surviving family members may need to pursue a wrongful death claim.

How a Building Collapse Lawyer Can Help

A building collapse lawyer conducts a thorough investigation to build a strong claim. This may include reviewing construction records and NYC Department of Buildings violations, consulting structural engineering experts, interviewing witnesses, preserving evidence, analyzing medical records, and calculating long-term financial losses.

Depending on the case, victims may pursue a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit, a premises liability claim, a New York Labor Law claim, a third-party construction claim, or workers’ compensation benefits.

Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost income and reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent disability, rehabilitation costs, and funeral expenses in fatal cases.

Because insurers often try to limit payouts in complex construction accident cases, an experienced lawyer works to secure full and fair compensation.

Workers Compensation and Third-Party Lawsuits

If you were injured while working on a construction site, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. However, workers’ compensation does not provide damages for pain and suffering.

In many cases, injured workers can also file a third-party lawsuit against a negligent property owner, contractor, or equipment manufacturer. A Brooklyn construction accident lawyer can determine whether both claims are available.

This combined legal strategy can significantly increase potential recovery.

When to Contact a Building Collapse Lawyer in Brooklyn

After seeking medical attention, you should speak with a building collapse lawyer as soon as possible. Early investigation is critical, especially in construction-related cases where evidence can quickly disappear.

In New York, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the accident. Claims involving government entities may have much shorter deadlines.

Acting quickly helps preserve your rights and strengthens your case.

Brooklyn Legal Help for Building Collapse Victims

If you or someone you love has been injured in a structural failure, the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum is prepared to help. As a Brooklyn construction accident lawyer, our firm represents workers and individuals harmed by unsafe building conditions throughout NYC.

We understand the complexity of building collapse litigation and aggressively pursue the compensation our clients deserve. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court.

Call 718-237-5586 today for a free consultation. You can also fill out our online contact form to learn more about your legal options.

If you were injured in a building collapse in Brooklyn or anywhere in NYC, do not wait to protect your rights.

NYC Construction Accidents: Safety and Legal Insights

Posted on October 1, 2021 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Construction Accident Risks and Worker Protections in NYC

With constant high-rise development, scaffolding work, and heavy machinery usage across the five boroughs, construction is one of the most dangerous industries in New York City. Every day, construction workers face serious risks, including falls from high surfaces and falling debris, which can lead to life-changing injuries.

At the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured construction workers and advocating for worker safety. Contacting a NYC construction accident lawyer is often a critical step after a devastating jobsite accident.

Common Causes of Construction Accidents in NYC

Construction accidents in NYC frequently occur due to preventable hazards, when safety regulations are ignored, and when proper protections aren’t provided. Unfortunately, it is all too common for construction workers to be seriously injured or even die due to falls from ladders, roofs, and scaffolding.

Worker injuries may also result from falling tools and materials, machinery failures, electrical mishaps, and other unsafe working conditions. Meanwhile, all of these safety risks can be exacerbated by inadequate training, defective equipment, and poor communication between workers and their bosses.

Understanding New York Construction Laws

Under New York law, there are legal protections in place to help construction workers who experience falls and gravity-related injuries. When proper safety equipment and safeguards aren’t in place, property owners, contractors, or subcontractors could be to blame.

Our state’s labor laws hold negligent parties accountable when construction workers are exposed to unnecessary risks out of their control. These laws are especially important in our city because construction often takes place in crowded urban areas with constant activity and limited space.

Personal Injury vs. Workers’ Compensation Claims

Some NYC construction workers mistakenly assume that filing a workers’ compensation claim is the only option if they are injured on the job. Workers’ comp may indeed help cover your medical bills and a portion of your lost wages. But likely, these funds won’t account for the long-term financial and emotional impact of a serious injury.

Fortunately, injured workers may also have legal grounds to file a third-party personal injury claim against negligent property owners, equipment manufacturers, contractors, or other responsible parties. For this reason, it’s beneficial to consult with a knowledgeable NYC construction accident lawyer to determine if you have a case.

For example, our personal injury law firm can investigate the cause of your accident, identify liable parties, preserve evidence, and determine whether additional compensation beyond just workers’ comp benefits may be available.

What to Do After a Construction Accident in NYC

The most important thing to do after any accident is to seek immediate medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor at first. However, it’s also crucial to preserve all relevant evidence, as construction sites can change rapidly after an accident, making early documentation extremely essential.

In addition to reporting unsafe working conditions to management, it’s also beneficial to collect and maintain photos of the accident scene, witness statements, incident reports, medical records, and documentation of OSHA investigations.

Protecting Your Legal Rights After a Construction Accident

As local veterans in plaintiff accident cases, we’ve seen far too many times how construction accidents can lead to long-term consequences and even permanent physical and mental damage. However, strong legal representation can help injured construction workers pursue the compensation they deserve for medical costs, lost wages, rehab expenses, pain and suffering, and long-term care.

As New Yorkers, we understand how construction work builds and maintains our great city. Yet, no worker should have to risk their life because of someone else’s negligence or failure to maintain safe job conditions.

The Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum is here to help if you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident. Please contact us for a free consultation and to learn more about your legal options.

Why You Need a NYC Construction Accident Lawyer

Posted on March 31, 2021 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Why Hiring an NYC Construction Accident Lawyer Matters After a Work Injury

Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in New York City. Workers face daily risks from falls, heavy machinery, falling debris, electrical hazards, and unsafe work sites. When accidents happen, the injuries are often severe and life-changing.

If you have been hurt on the job, working with an experienced NYC construction accident lawyer can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing compensation for you and your family.

At the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we represent injured construction workers throughout Brooklyn and New York City and fight to hold negligent parties accountable.

Experienced Legal Guidance After a Construction Site Injury

Construction accident claims are not simple. They often involve multiple parties, including property owners, general contractors, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, and site managers. Determining who is legally responsible requires a thorough investigation and a strong understanding of New York labor laws.

An experienced construction site accident lawyer in NYC can:

Investigate the cause of your accident
Gather job site records and safety documentation
Identify all responsible parties
File claims within the required legal deadlines
Negotiate with insurance companies
Take your case to trial if necessary

One of the most important parts of any case is proving liability. Construction companies and insurers frequently attempt to shift blame onto injured workers. A lawyer who regularly handles construction accident cases understands these tactics and knows how to counter them.

Navigating New York’s Complex Construction Laws

New York has unique labor laws that protect construction workers, including statutes that address scaffold accidents, falling objects, and unsafe worksites. However, asserting your rights under these laws requires legal knowledge and experience.

Construction cases are often complicated by:

Multiple contractors working on the same site
Disputes over safety training and supervision
Claims that the worker caused the accident
Pressure to accept a quick settlement

Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it is wise to speak with an NYC construction accident lawyer as soon as possible. Some injuries worsen over time, and early legal guidance helps preserve evidence and protect your claim.

Questions to Ask a Construction Site Accident Lawyer NYC

When contacting an attorney after a work injury, it helps to be prepared. During your consultation, consider asking:

Have you handled cases similar to mine?
What results have you achieved in construction accident cases?
How long have you been representing injured workers?
What compensation may be available in my situation?
Do cases like mine typically settle or go to trial?
What are your fees, and how are they structured?
How long might my case take to resolve?

The answers to these questions can help you feel confident that you are choosing the right attorney to represent you.

Hire a Trusted NYC Construction Accident Lawyer

If you were injured on a construction site due to unsafe conditions, falling debris, faulty equipment, or inadequate safety protections, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Future rehabilitation costs

Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum has extensive experience representing injured construction workers in Brooklyn and throughout New York City. Our firm provides personalized attention and aggressive representation focused on achieving meaningful results.

To speak with an experienced NYC construction accident lawyer, call 718-237-5586 or contact our office online to schedule a consultation.

How to Prevent Construction Accidents: Key Tips & Rights

Posted on November 27, 2018 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

What Every Worker Needs to Know About Preventing Construction Accidents

Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in New York City. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1,032 workers in construction and extraction occupations died in fatal workplace accidents in 2024, highlighting the serious risks workers face every day.

From working at heights to operating heavy machinery, construction workers are exposed to hazards that can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. Understanding how to prevent construction accidents is critical, not only for staying safe, but also for protecting your rights if something goes wrong.

At the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we help injured workers navigate construction accident claims and hold negligent parties accountable.

Why Construction Accidents Happen

Construction accidents often result from unsafe working conditions, lack of training, or failure to follow safety protocols.

According to OSHA, the majority of construction fatalities are caused by the “Fatal Four”:

Falls
Electrocutions
Being struck by objects
Being caught between equipment or structures

Recognizing these risks is the first step in learning how to prevent accidents on a construction site.

How to Prevent Construction Accidents on the Job

While construction work carries inherent risks, many accidents are preventable with proper precautions. Key safety practices include:

Follow Safety Programs and Training

Employers must provide safety training and clear procedures. Workers should follow all guidelines and remain aware of potential hazards at all times.

Wear Proper Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal protective equipment reduces the risk of serious injury. This includes hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toe boots. Consistent use of PPE is one of the most effective ways to prevent construction accidents.

Use Equipment Properly

Only operate machinery and tools you are trained to use. Improper handling of equipment is a leading cause of injuries on construction sites.

Practice Safe Driving on Site

Large construction vehicles create visibility challenges. Drivers should avoid distractions, use spotters when backing up, and remain alert to surrounding workers.

Keep the Worksite Clean

Cluttered work areas increase the risk of slips and falls. Keeping tools organized and walkways clear can significantly reduce accidents.

Prevent Fatigue

Fatigue can impair judgment and reaction time. Taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and limiting prolonged sun exposure can help workers stay alert.

Report Hazards Immediately

Unsafe conditions, such as broken equipment or fall risks, should be reported right away. If employers fail to address hazards, workers may contact OSHA for assistance.

What to Do If a Construction Accident Happens

Even with proper safety measures, accidents can still occur. If you are injured:

Seek medical attention immediately
Report the accident to your employer
Document the scene with photos and notes
Gather witness information if possible

Taking these steps helps protect your health and strengthens your potential legal claim.

Understanding Liability in Construction Accidents

Construction accident cases often involve multiple parties, including contractors, subcontractors, property owners, and equipment manufacturers.

While workers’ compensation may cover basic expenses, it may not fully account for your losses. In some cases, injured workers can pursue additional claims against third parties whose negligence contributed to the accident.

Why You Need a Construction Accident Lawyer

Construction accident claims can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. An experienced construction accident lawyer can investigate the accident, identify liable parties, and pursue full compensation on your behalf.

Legal representation can make a significant difference when dealing with insurance companies and ensuring your rights are protected.

Get Legal Help from a Brooklyn Construction Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured, understanding how to prevent construction accidents is only part of the equation—you also need to take action after an incident occurs.

The Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum is committed to helping injured workers recover the compensation they deserve. We will evaluate your case and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Call our Brooklyn office today at (718) 237-5586 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

Understanding Crane Accidents

Posted on September 21, 2018 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Construction sites tend to be very dangerous due to the heavy equipment often found there. This equipment includes huge cranes. Tower cranes and overhead cranes are often found on construction sites, particularly those for skyscrapers and other tall buildings.

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NYC Scaffolding Map and Sidewalk Shed Safety

Posted on May 16, 2017 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Using the NYC Scaffolding Map to Stay Safe Around Sidewalk Sheds

The New York City Department of Buildings recently made it easier for the public to track construction activity by providing an online map showing the location of active sidewalk sheds across the five boroughs. This map allows pedestrians and cyclists to see where protective structures are currently installed and better plan their routes through the city.

Sidewalk sheds, or better known as scaffolding, are temporary structures built to protect people and property during construction, demolition, and building repairs. While these structures are intended to shield the public from falling debris, accidents can still happen. When someone is injured in or around a construction zone, they may have the right to pursue compensation through a construction accident claim.

Why Sidewalk Sheds Are Installed

Property owners in New York City are required to install a sidewalk shed when certain construction conditions exist. A shed must be installed when:

Constructing a building more than 40 feet high
Demolishing a building more than 25 feet high
A hazardous building condition requires public protection

A sidewalk shed in NYC cannot be built without prior approval and a valid work permit from the Department of Buildings. In situations involving an immediate safety threat, a property owner may install the shed first and submit a permit application within 24 hours.

If the shed extends into the street, additional authorization from the NYC Department of Transportation may be required. Sidewalk shed permits are typically valid for one year or until the contractor’s insurance expires, whichever occurs first. Failure to renew a permit can result in significant financial penalties.

Safety Requirements and Regulations

All sidewalk sheds must comply with New York City Building Code requirements. These standards are designed to protect pedestrians who travel beneath them and to reduce the risk of injury.

Key requirements include:

A minimum width of five feet to allow pedestrian traffic
At least eight feet of overhead clearance
Adequate lighting within the passageway at all times
Structural decking capable of supporting heavy loads
No obstruction of fire escapes or building exits

Permit information, including permit numbers and expiration dates, must be posted in a visible location. Advertising is generally prohibited on these structures, except in limited situations where an existing legal business sign is blocked.

Although these regulations are in place to improve safety, sidewalk sheds can create narrow walkways, reduced visibility, and congested conditions. These factors may increase the risk of trips, falls, collisions, or injuries caused by falling objects.

How Pedestrians and Cyclists Can Stay Safe

If you regularly travel through Brooklyn or other parts of the city, reviewing the city’s online map before heading out may help you anticipate construction areas. While it may not always be possible to avoid every sidewalk shed in NYC, awareness can help reduce your risk.

To protect yourself:

Stay alert and avoid distractions while walking under scaffolding
Be cautious in dimly lit or crowded passageways
Watch for active overhead construction
Slow down when approaching narrow pedestrian corridors

Cyclists should always wear a properly fitted helmet. A helmet may reduce the severity of a head injury in the event of falling debris or a collision caused by limited visibility near a construction site.

Work with an Experienced Brooklyn Construction Accident Lawyer

Despite safety regulations, injuries still occur around construction zones and sidewalk sheds. Falling tools or materials, unsafe work practices, poor lighting, or obstructed sightlines can all contribute to serious accidents.

If you have been injured because of a scaffold or sidewalk shed, whether due to falling debris or a collision related to reduced visibility, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

To learn more about your rights as an injured victim, contact Brooklyn construction accident lawyer Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum at 718-237-5586 to schedule a consultation at our office.

How a Heavy Machinery Accident Lawyer Can Help in NYC

Posted on November 17, 2016 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Know the Hazards of Job Site Machinery and Protect Yourself After a Construction Accident in NYC

If you are employed in the construction industry, you already understand how dangerous your job can be. Construction sites throughout Brooklyn and New York City expose workers to heavy equipment, power tools, elevated work areas, and hazardous machinery every day.

Recognizing these risks is the first step toward protecting yourself. Another critical step is understanding your legal rights if an accident occurs. If you are injured by dangerous equipment or heavy machinery, speaking with a heavy machinery accident lawyer can help you understand whether you may be entitled to compensation.

After seeking medical attention, consider contacting a job site accident lawyer NYC workers trust to evaluate your case and determine who may be legally responsible.

Construction Is One of the Most Dangerous Industries in New York City

Construction remains one of the most hazardous occupations in NYC.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 69 fatal work injuries in New York City in 2023. The construction sector had the highest number of fatalities, accounting for 24 deaths, or 35 percent of all workplace fatalities in the city.

Falls, slips, and trips caused 12 of those 24 construction deaths. Exposure to harmful substances and dangerous environments also accounted for a significant portion of fatalities.

The construction and extraction occupational group experienced 30 fatal injuries in 2023, the highest of any occupational category.

These numbers show that job site safety remains a serious concern across New York City.

The Most Dangerous Types of Heavy Machinery on Job Sites

Heavy machinery plays a major role in construction accidents. When equipment is improperly operated, poorly maintained, or defective, the consequences can be severe.

Common examples of dangerous machinery include:

Forklifts
Excavators
Bulldozers
Cranes
Nail guns and projectile tools
Power saws
Air compressors
Ladders and scaffolding

Although ladders may not appear as dangerous as large equipment, falls remain one of the leading causes of fatal construction injuries in NYC.

If you were injured while operating or working near heavy equipment, a heavy machinery accident lawyer NYC workers rely on can investigate whether negligence or defective equipment contributed to your injuries.

Reduce Your Risk of a Machinery-Related Injury

Safety must be a priority on every construction site.

Workers should consistently use proper protective equipment, such as:

Hard hats
Safety harnesses
Eye protection
Gloves
Steel-toe boots

All heavy machinery should only be operated by properly trained personnel. Equipment should be inspected regularly to ensure it is functioning safely.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, known as OSHA, provides detailed construction safety regulations. Following OSHA guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.

Even when workers follow all safety protocols, accidents still happen. When they do, legal guidance may be necessary.

Machinery Malfunctions and Third-Party Liability

Not all job site injuries are caused by worker error. Some occur because equipment malfunctions or contains defective parts.

When faulty machinery causes harm, the manufacturer, distributor, or maintenance provider may be liable under product liability laws. In these cases, injured workers may be able to pursue compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits.

Injuries caused by malfunctioning machinery often include:

Burns
Severe cuts and lacerations
Electrocution
Exposure to toxic substances
Broken bones
Crush injuries
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries

Because construction accounted for 24 of the 69 workplace fatalities in NYC in 2023, identifying the true cause of a heavy equipment accident is essential.

A heavy machinery accident lawyer can determine whether a third-party claim may be available in addition to workers’ compensation.

Worker Demographics Highlight the Risk in NYC Construction

Workplace fatality data also reveals important trends.

In 2023, wage and salary workers accounted for 91 percent of workplace fatalities in New York City. Males accounted for 90 percent of fatal work injuries. Hispanic or Latino workers represented 41 percent of those who died from workplace injuries.

These statistics emphasize how serious construction site risks remain throughout NYC.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, a job site accident lawyer trusted by NYC construction workers can help you explore your legal options.

Speak With a Heavy Machinery Accident Lawyer in NYC

If you were injured by heavy equipment, defective machinery, or unsafe job site conditions, you may have the right to pursue compensation.

Workers’ compensation may cover medical bills and a portion of lost wages, but it does not provide damages for pain and suffering. In many cases, injured workers can pursue third-party claims against negligent contractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers.

An experienced heavy machinery accident lawyer, trusted by NYC residents, can investigate your case, preserve critical evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum represents injured construction workers throughout Brooklyn and New York City. If you were hurt in a machinery-related accident, do not delay seeking legal advice.

Fill out our online form today to schedule your free consultation or call 718-237-5586 to speak with our office.

Crane Collapse Causes Injuries and Death in New York

Posted on February 16, 2016 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Crane over city skyline.

On February 5, 2016, a devastating accident shook Lower Manhattan Street: a crane collapsed, killing one individual in the area and causing injury to three more persons. As reported by NBC New York, according to Mayor Bill de Blasio, the collapse occurred when the crane was being lowered and secured. It is believed that the crane collapse may have occurred, or was aided by, high speed winds; nine minutes before the collapse, a 37 mile per hour wind gust was recorded.

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Construction Worker Killed By Falling Tape Measure

Posted on January 20, 2015 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Construction worker holding a blue hard hat.

There are about 6.5 million construction workers employed at about 250,000 different worksites across the United States. And every year, thousands of construction workers are injured or killed at these worksites, often as a result of negligence on behalf of the construction site owner, contractor or sub-contractor. Some of the most dangerous hazards at construction sites include scaffolding, excavations, ladders, falling objects, and electrical wiring. Construction sites present precarious situations and even the most innocuous objects can be deadly.

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