Construction Site Accidents in Western New York: Your Rights After a Fall or Incident
Bradley Marble

The construction industry is one of the most dangerous in New York State. Whether you’re a laborer, subcontractor, skilled tradesperson, or site visitor, accidents can happen in a split second — from falls, scaffold collapses, equipment malfunctions, or struck-by incidents. If you’ve been injured on a construction site in Western New York, you may have a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party personal injury claim. At [Your Firm Name], we guide you through both to maximize your recovery.

Why Construction Accidents Happen

Construction sites often involve high-risk activities:

  • Working at heights (ladders, scaffolds, roofs) with inadequate fall protection.
  • Heavy equipment and cranes operating near workers or traffic.
  • Collapsing trenches or unstable excavation work.
  • Electrocution hazards or failure to de-energize systems.
  • Defective components, improperly maintained tools or materials.
  • Poor training, inadequate supervision, or failure to follow OSHA standards.

Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims

If you were injured while working, you’re generally eligible for benefits through the New York State Workers' Compensation Board regardless of fault.

However, if your injury was caused by a third-party (someone other than your employer or a coworker), you may bring a personal injury claim in addition to your workers’ comp claim. This could include claims against equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, property owners, or general contractors.

A skilled attorney will coordinate both claims: workers’ compensation benefits for prompt support plus a personal injury lawsuit for additional damages like pain and suffering, and loss of life’s enjoyment.

Steps to Take After a Construction Accident

  • Get medical attention immediately and follow all doctors’ instructions.
  • Report the injury to your employer and ensure an incident report is filed.
  • Preserve evidence — photographs of the accident scene, equipment, scaffolding, and your injuries. Collect witness information.
  • Document your job duties and what you were asked to do at the time of the accident.
  • Do not sign anything from the insurance company without consulting a lawyer.
  • Contact an attorney early — the sooner the investigation begins, the stronger your position.

How We Help Construction Injury Victims in Western New York

We investigate the scene and determine whether construction laws (like those from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and New York statutes) were violated.

We identify all potential third-party defendants (e.g., equipment lessors, subcontractors, property owners).

We coordinate the workers’ compensation claim with your personal injury case so you don’t lose out on benefits or hamper your lawsuit.

We pursue full compensation for medical care, lost income, future earning capacity, pain and suffering, and any disability or impairment.

Why Choose Our Western New York Practice

We are intimately familiar with the region’s labor market, building projects, and construction firms. From Buffalo to Rochester and across Western New York, we’ve represented workers and their families injured in construction incidents. We take the time to understand your story — not just the accident — so we can fight for what you truly deserve.

If you’ve been injured on a construction site in the Western New York area, don’t delay. Contact [Your Firm Name] today. We offer free consultations, and we’ll help you understand your rights and steps forward — while protecting your claim from the outset.