Construction Accident Lawyers in Queens
Falls, scaffold and ladder collapses, falling objects and site accidents across New York City. Free consultation, and no fee unless we win.
New York protects construction workers more than most states
If you were hurt on a construction site in New York, you may have more than a workers' compensation claim. Workers' compensation pays medical treatment and part of your lost wages regardless of fault, but it does not pay for pain and suffering, and it is generally your only remedy against your own employer.
New York Labor Law §240 — often called the scaffold law — holds owners and general contractors responsible for gravity-related injuries where proper protection was not provided. That covers falls from height and objects falling onto a worker. Labor Law §241(6) covers violations of specific safety regulations. These claims run against parties other than your employer, and they can be brought alongside a compensation claim.
Immigration status does not bar these claims, and neither does being paid off the books. Report the injury to your employer in writing, get medical attention, and photograph the site and equipment if you can — conditions on a site change fast.
How Davidov & Cohen can help
We take the administrative weight off you and put the case on a footing where the other side has a reason to deal with it properly.
We identify every responsible party
Owner, general contractor, subcontractors, equipment suppliers. The claim that matters is often against someone other than your employer.
We move before the site changes
Scaffolding comes down and equipment is replaced within days. We seek site photographs, inspection records and safety logs immediately.
We run both claims together
Your workers' compensation benefits and a Labor Law claim are separate. We coordinate them so one does not quietly undercut the other.
We prepare it as a trial case
Most claims settle. They settle for more when the file is built as though it will be tried, and the other side knows it.
Site accidents we handle
- Scaffold and ladder falls
- Falls through openings and roofs
- Falling objects and debris
- Crane and hoist accidents
- Trench and excavation collapse
- Electrocution and arc flash
- Power tool and machinery injuries
- Demolition accidents
- Forklift and heavy equipment
- Defective safety equipment
- Slip and trip hazards on site
- Fires and explosions
How long you have to file
A Labor Law claim generally follows New York's three-year personal injury deadline, but a workers' compensation claim has its own much shorter timetable — written notice to your employer within 30 days and a claim filed within two years. A site owned by a public authority may also require a notice of claim within 90 days. These run in parallel, which is why it is worth a call early.
Common questions
Can I bring a claim if I am already getting workers' compensation?
Often yes. Workers' compensation is generally your only claim against your employer, but it does not prevent a claim against an owner, general contractor or other party whose negligence contributed. Those are the claims that can include pain and suffering.
Does my immigration status affect my claim?
New York's Labor Law protections apply to workers regardless of immigration status, and courts have held that undocumented workers may bring these claims. We do not ask about status beyond what a case actually requires.
What is the scaffold law?
Labor Law §240(1). It places responsibility on owners and contractors for injuries caused by the effects of gravity on a work site — falls from height, and objects falling from height — where adequate protection was not provided. It is one of the strongest protections available to construction workers anywhere in the country.
I was paid in cash. Does that stop me?
No. Being paid off the books does not remove your right to bring a claim, and it does not remove an owner's or contractor's obligations under the Labor Law.
What does it cost to hire you?
Nothing up front. We work on a contingency fee, so our fee comes out of a recovery and there is no fee if there is no recovery. The consultation is free.
Tell Us What Happened
Free consultation. No fee unless we win. We'll get back to you the same day.
Millions Recovered for Injured New Yorkers
At Davidov & Cohen Law, we are proud to have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients who have suffered injuries due to the negligence of others. Our dedicated legal team has successfully handled a wide range of personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, construction site injuries, and more.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that an injury can take, which is why we fight tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation our clients deserve. Through aggressive negotiation and skilled litigation, we hold negligent parties accountable and help our clients rebuild their lives.
Every case we take on is pursued with determination and personalized attention. When you choose Davidov & Cohen Law, you are choosing experienced advocates committed to achieving justice for you and your family.
What Our Clients Say
After losing hope, I had the good fortune of getting in touch with David & Ben. They treated me as family with genuine personal care. Their knowledge & expertise exceeded my expectations.
This firm handled my case so quick and efficiently. They were able to get me the max settlement in only 3 months after my accident.
Excellent attorneys. Transparent and professional. Got my settlement for full policy within 4 months of my accident. Thank you David. Highly recommend!!!