Levine & Slavit | January 14, 2026
A serious accident on a New York City construction site can turn your life upside down in seconds. Medical bills pile up, time away from work creates financial stress, and many injured workers assume workers’ compensation is their only option. An experienced New York construction accident attorney often explains that this isn’t always true—New York labor laws provide powerful protections that go beyond basic benefits.
New York has a long history of protecting construction workers, especially those exposed to dangerous elevation-related risks and unsafe job sites. Two laws in particular—Labor Law 240 and Labor Law 241(6)—can allow injured workers to seek compensation directly from building owners or general contractors, even when coworkers caused the accident.
Labor Law 240, often called the “Scaffold Law,” places absolute liability on owners and general contractors when proper safety devices are not provided. If falling objects, collapsing equipment, or elevation-related hazards cause injury, the law can apply. You do not need to prove the owner or contractor was negligent, and you generally do not need to prove you were free from fault. The focus is on whether adequate safety protections were in place.
Labor Law 241(6) works differently but is still a powerful tool. This law applies when a construction accident results from a violation of a specific industrial safety rule. Unlike Labor Law 240, comparative negligence may be considered, meaning fault can be shared. Even so, injured workers may still recover compensation from owners or contractors when safety regulations are ignored.
Insurance companies often try to downplay these laws or shift blame to injured workers to limit payouts. Without legal guidance, it’s easy to miss critical deadlines, overlook applicable labor law claims, or accept a settlement that does not reflect the true cost of your injuries.
How an Experienced Construction Accident Attorney Can Help
A knowledgeable attorney investigates the accident site, identifies applicable Labor Law violations, and holds responsible parties accountable. They handle insurance companies, protect your rights, and pursue compensation for medical care, lost wages, and long-term impacts—allowing you to focus on recovery while they manage the legal burden.
Take Action Today: Protect Your Rights After a Construction Accident
If you’ve been injured on a New York construction site, speaking with an attorney as soon as possible can make a meaningful difference. Early legal guidance helps preserve evidence, clarify your options, and ensure the protections of New York labor laws work for you.
FAQs
Can I sue if workers’ compensation covers my injury?
Yes. While you usually can’t sue your employer or coworkers, New York labor laws may allow claims against owners or general contractors.
What types of accidents fall under Labor Law 240?
Common examples include falls from heights, falling objects, or accidents involving ladders, scaffolds, or hoisting equipment.
Does my own mistake prevent me from recovering compensation?
Not necessarily. Labor Law 240 does not require you to prove you were free from fault, and Labor Law 241(6) may still allow recovery even if fault is shared.
How soon should I contact a construction accident attorney?
As soon as possible. Early action helps protect evidence, meet legal deadlines, and strengthen your claim.