Construction Accident Lawyer New York, NY

Construction sites in New York City and throughout the state present some of the most dangerous work environments. When a scaffold collapse, fall from height, or heavy equipment accident causes serious injury, the consequences can be catastrophic. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel represent injured construction workers and their families in civil claims against contractors, property owners, equipment manufacturers, and other responsible parties. The firm has practiced since 1997 and serves clients in New York County (Manhattan), Kings County (Brooklyn), Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and all other New York State localities. To request a consultation about a construction accident matter, call (888) 437-7747.

What Construction Accident Representation Means in New York, NY

New York is one of the nation’s busiest construction markets, with thousands of active job sites across the five boroughs alone. When a worker is injured, the path to compensation depends on a layered framework of common-law negligence, state safety regulations, and the particulars of the job site. Unlike a routine car accident, a construction-site injury often involves multiple potential defendants — general contractors, subcontractors, property owners, and product manufacturers — each with its own insurance coverage and legal obligations. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to identify every available source of recovery so that injured clients are not forced to shoulder the financial burden alone.

In New York, personal-injury claims are governed by the state’s pure comparative-fault rule (CPLR Article 14‑A). A plaintiff’s compensation is reduced by his or her percentage of fault, but — unlike some other states — even a plaintiff who bears a significant share of responsibility may still recover. This rule makes it critical to develop a thorough factual record early in the case. The firm works with accident reconstruction attorneys and medical providers to build that record while also evaluating whether the property owner or contractor violated any safety regulations that could establish liability. For claims against municipal entities, a notice of claim generally must be served within 90 days of the incident, so prompt legal consultation is essential.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Construction Accident Cases

Every construction accident case begins with a detailed review of the job-site conditions, the chain of supervision, and the applicable insurance policies. The firm investigates the incident to determine whether negligence by a party other than the injured worker’s employer contributed to the accident. In New York, workers’ compensation usually bars a direct suit against the employer, but third-party claims against other responsible entities are often available. Those claims may be filed in New York Supreme Court, the state’s trial court of general jurisdiction, and may pursue damages for medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, loss of consortium.

Because construction accident litigation can involve complex contractual relationships between owners and contractors, as well as compliance with state safety regulations, the firm works methodically through the layers of potential liability. The process typically includes early evidence preservation, identification of all potentially liable parties, consultation with engineering and medical experts, and preparation for trial if a fair settlement is not reached. Every matter is handled by Mr. Sris in collaboration with his Of Counsel team, drawing on over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He leads a team of Of Counsel attorneys who together have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since the firm’s founding. Results may vary.

Verify admissions: Virginia State Bar · Maryland Judiciary · DC Bar · NJ Courts · NY OCA

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a construction site accident in New York?

Seek medical attention first, even if the injury seems minor. Report the accident to your supervisor and, if possible, document the scene with photographs and the names of witnesses. Keep all work-related clothing and equipment in the condition they were in immediately after the incident. Then speak with an experienced attorney before providing a recorded statement to an insurance company. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Who can be held liable for a construction accident in New York?

Liability may extend beyond the injured worker’s employer. General contractors, subcontractors, property owners, equipment manufacturers, and engineers can all be responsible if their negligence contributed to the accident. New York’s pure comparative-fault rule allows recovery even if multiple parties share responsibility. An attorney can evaluate the specific facts to identify all potential avenues of compensation.

How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in New York?

Under N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214(5), a personal-injury action generally must be commenced within three years from the date of the injury. If the claim is against a municipal entity, a notice of claim typically must be served within the time required by law. Failing to meet these deadlines can bar recovery, so it is important to consult an attorney promptly. The firm can help ensure all time requirements are met.

What damages can I recover in a New York construction accident case?

A successful claim may include compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and, where applicable, loss of consortium. New York does not impose a statutory cap on compensatory damages in most personal injury cases. Every case is different; the amount recoverable depends on the severity of the injury and the available insurance coverage.

How does New York’s comparative-fault rule affect my construction accident claim?

New York follows a pure comparative-fault system under CPLR Article 14‑A. This means a plaintiff’s recovery is reduced by his or her percentage of fault, but even a plaintiff who is largely at fault may still obtain some compensation. The defendant’s insurance company will often try to shift blame to the injured worker, making thorough investigation and documentation essential.

Does New York have special laws that protect construction workers?

Yes. Although workers’ compensation generally prevents direct lawsuits against an employer, several statutes and regulations impose duties on property owners and contractors that can create a basis for third-party claims. An attorney experienced in construction litigation understands how to use these provisions to help an injured worker pursue compensation from parties other than the employer.

What if a defective product or equipment caused my injury?

If a defective tool, scaffold, hoist, or other equipment contributed to the accident, a products-liability claim may be brought against the manufacturer or distributor. Such claims can proceed in addition to any negligence claim against a contractor or property owner. An investigation into the equipment’s design, maintenance, and warnings can be critical.

How much does it cost to hire a construction accident lawyer in New York?

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles personal injury matters on a contingency-fee basis. This means you pay no legal fee unless a recovery is obtained. Costs of litigation are discussed at the initial consultation. Contact the firm at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation and fee arrangement.

How long does a construction accident lawsuit take in New York?

The timeline varies greatly depending on factors such as the complexity of the accident, the number of defendants, the extent of the injuries, and the court’s calendar. Some cases resolve through settlement within months; others require extensive discovery and trial and may take several years. The firm works to move each case forward efficiently while preparing thoroughly for trial.

Do I need a lawyer for a construction accident case, or can I handle it myself?

Although you are not required to have a lawyer, construction accident claims often involve multiple parties, complex insurance policies, and detailed safety regulations. An experienced attorney can investigate the accident, preserve evidence, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and, if necessary, present your case at trial. For guidance, call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.

What if I am an undocumented worker injured on a construction site in New York?

Immigration status generally does not bar a personal injury claim in New York. All workers, regardless of status, may be entitled to recover damages for injuries caused by another party’s negligence. An attorney can explain your rights and how to proceed while protecting your privacy.

Additional Locations We Serve

Related personal injury pages: Manhattan construction accident representation · Brooklyn personal injury practice · Queens construction accident lawyer · Staten Island worksite injury attorney · Nassau County personal injury claims

Primary Sources

For official statutory and court information: N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214 (statute of limitations) · N.Y. C.P.L.R. Article 14‑A (comparative fault) · New York County Supreme Court website