Falling Object Injury
In bustling construction sites and busy retail stores across New York, the risk of injury from falling objects is a pressing concern. Different laws and legal principles may apply depending on whether you are hurt as a customer shopping in a store or passer-by on a sidewalk, or if you are injured while working on a construction project in New York City. In either case, Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., can help you get the care and compensation you need while holding the responsible parties accountable to you for their negligent failures that put you in harm’s way. If you or a loved one has been injured by a falling object in NYC, contact Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., to discuss your claim with a compassionate and experienced New York personal injury attorney and construction accident lawyer.
Falling Objects: A Leading Cause of Construction Accidents
Construction sites are riddled with potential hazards, and falling objects stand out as one of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) “Fatal Four” construction accidents. In New York, the gravity of this issue is addressed with stringent legal protections for workers.
New York’s Scaffold Law (Labor Law Sections 240/241)
The state’s Labor Law, particularly the Scaffold Law, codifies a unique provision that imposes absolute liability on contractors, property owners, and their agents for injuries caused by gravity-related accidents. The Scaffold Law specifically addresses falling object injuries and encompasses incidents involving:
- Objects falling from heights
- Workers falling due to inadequate safety equipment
- Insufficiently secured ladders, scaffolds, or hoists
When a construction worker in New York is injured by a falling object, the Scaffold Law ensures that the blame does not fall on the worker but rather on those responsible for site safety. The absolute liability standard in New York is pivotal; it does not require the injured party to prove negligence, only that the law was violated and that the violation caused the injury.
Legal Recourse for Falling Object Injuries in Retail Settings
Beyond the construction industry, people anywhere can be harmed by falling objects. For instance, visitors to retail and big box stores can also fall victim to objects tumbling from shelves or improperly secured merchandise. In these incidents, injury victims turn to the law of premises liability to hold property owners liable.
Premises Liability Law and Storeowner Responsibility
Premises liability law in New York holds store owners and operators responsible for maintaining a safe environment for customers. When objects fall and cause injury due to negligent stocking practices, poor maintenance, inadequate warning signage, or other hazards, the liability for the injury may fall squarely on the shoulders of the store owner.
Victims of such accidents can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, premises liability cases can be difficult to prove. Property owners will often argue they did not know nor should have known about the hazard and therefore shouldn’t be held responsible. They will also try to downplay the extent of the injury or say the victim had a pre-existing condition. Finally, property owners and their insurers will often try to shield themselves from liability by saying the accident was at least partially to blame for the accident by not paying attention, which could lessen the amount they have to pay.
The Role of Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C. in Your Falling Object Injury Claim
At Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., we are committed to providing comprehensive legal support for those injured by falling objects, whether on a construction site or in a retail store. Our firm thoroughly understands the complexities of New York’s Labor Laws and premises liability statutes, allowing us to navigate the legal system effectively on behalf of our clients.
We meticulously examine every facet of your construction accident claim, from the safety protocols in place to the equipment used on-site. Our goal is to ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable, securing the financial restitution our clients are entitled to under New York Labor Law.
For injuries in retail environments, we investigate the scene of the accident, gather evidence, and construct a compelling case that demonstrates the storeowner’s liability. By doing so, we aim to achieve a settlement or court judgment that reflects the true cost of your injury.
Seek Skilled Legal Representation After a Falling Object Injury in New York City
If you or a loved one has been injured by a falling object, whether at a construction site or a retail establishment, you need an advocate who is knowledgeable in New York’s protective laws. Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C. offers that expertise, providing personalized legal strategies designed to maximize your compensation. Call our office at 212-889-9362 for a free consultation to discuss your potential claims and get the help you need.
