What to Do If Someone Falls Off a Roof?
A fall from a roof can lead to catastrophic injuries and other life-altering consequences and, in some tragic cases, even cause wrongful death of the victim. Construction sites in New York particularly pose significant risks, and a fall from a height can have devastating outcomes. An experienced slip and fall accident lawyer in New York City can help you understand your legal rights and take the necessary steps to prove liability and maximize compensation.
Immediate Response After Someone Falls Off a New York Roof
- Call for Emergency Medical Assistance: The first and most critical step is to call 911 immediately. Prompt medical attention can make a significant difference in the outcome of the injured person.
- Do Not Move the Injured Person: While waiting for medical professionals to arrive, it is essential not to attempt to move the injured person unless there is an immediate threat to their safety. Moving them without proper training can worsen their injuries.
- Provide First Aid if Trained: If you have first aid training and it is safe to do so, provide basic first aid such as CPR or controlling bleeding until professional help arrives.
- Ensure Proper Medical Care: After the initial treatment received from paramedics and at the ER, it is important to follow up with doctors for appropriate medical care. Maintain all medical documents to show you did not neglect your injuries.
Legal Steps to Strengthen the Right to File a Claim
- Preserve the Scene: If possible, preserve the scene of the accident. Avoid disturbing any physical or forensic evidence that could be vital in determining the cause of the fall.
- Document the Incident: Take detailed notes about the incident, including the date, time, location, and any relevant details. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information.
- Photograph the Site: Use your phone or camera to take pictures of the area where the fall occurred. Include any hazards, safety violations, or equipment malfunctions that may have contributed to the accident.
- Hire an Attorney: The most important step you must take as soon as possible is to get strong legal representation. Your slip and fall attorney in NYC will deal with the insurance adjusters and the negligent parties to negotiate maximum settlement for you.
Physical Consequences of Falling from a Roof
- Traumatic Injuries: Falls from roofs often result in traumatic injuries, such as fractures, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and internal organ damage. The severity of these injuries depends on factors like the height of the fall, the landing surface, and the individual's health.
- Long-Term Impacts: Survivors of roof falls may face long-term consequences, including chronic pain, mobility issues, and psychological trauma. The road to recovery can be lengthy and may involve extensive medical treatments, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Fatalities: Tragically, some roof falls result in fatalities. The impact of a fall from a significant height can be lethal, emphasizing the critical importance of safety measures on construction sites.
Types of Claims That Can be Filed After Falling from a Roof in New York
Personal Injury Claims
If third-party negligence contributed to the fall at a construction site or a public or private property, the injured victim may pursue a personal injury claim against responsible parties. This could include compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages.
Wrongful Death Claims
In fatal roof fall cases, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. This legal action can help you obtain compensation for funeral expenses and loss of financial support, and the emotional toll on the family.
Workers' Compensation
In many cases, workers who fall from roofs while on the job are entitled to workers' compensation benefits. These benefits may cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages.
Potential Liable Parties in a Roof Fall Accident in New York
Property Owner
The property owner is often held responsible for maintaining a safe environment. If the roof fall is due to negligent maintenance, lack of necessary repairs, or failure to address known hazards, the property owner may be liable.
Contractor or Construction Company
If the fall occurs in a construction setting, the contractor or construction company overseeing the project may be held liable. This includes situations where proper safety measures were not implemented or where the fall resulted from substandard construction practices.
Architect or Engineer
Design professionals may be held liable if the roof's design is flawed or if construction plans fail to meet safety standards. Architects and engineers have a duty to ensure that structures are sound and safe for occupancy.
Property Manager
In cases where the property is managed by a third party, such as a property management company, the property manager may bear liability for negligence in maintenance and ensuring safety.
Maintenance or Repair Contractors
If the fall is a result of negligent maintenance or repairs, the contractors hired for these tasks may be held responsible. This includes situations where repairs were improperly conducted or where warning signs of potential hazards were ignored.
Manufacturers of Defective Equipment
If the fall is caused by a defective safety harness, ladder, or other equipment, the manufacturer of the faulty equipment may be liable for producing a product that contributed to the accident.
Government Entities
In cases involving public buildings or projects, liability may extend to government entities responsible for maintenance and safety. This may include city or municipal authorities.
Why You Need an Experienced and Capable New York Slip and Fall Attorney to Protect Your Rights?
In the aftermath of a roof fall, obtaining legal help is important. A skilled attorney will investigate the circumstances surrounding the fall to determine liability. This may involve assessing the property owner's responsibility, potential safety violations, or employer negligence.
Victims of roof falls may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering. An attorney will work to obtain fair and just compensation for the injured party. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be held responsible, including property owners and contractors. A lawyer can assess the situation, determine liability, and hold the responsible parties accountable.
These are a few other ways a capable slip and fall lawyer in New York City can help you obtain maximum compensation:
- A skilled lawyer can gather evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and any available surveillance footage.
- Your personal injury attorney can handle communications with insurers, ensuring that you are not taken advantage of and that you receive the compensation you need.
- An attorney skilled in negotiation can advocate on your behalf, working to obtain a fair settlement without the need for a lengthy court battle.
- Insurance companies and opposing parties may try to minimize your claim or shift blame. Your lawyer can make sure that you are treated fairly throughout the legal process.
Choose a Results-Driven NYC Slip and Fall Attorney with a Proven Record of Large Settlements and Verdicts
The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff can ensure that the victim's rights are protected and that they receive the maximum compensation they are entitled to. With a formidable track record of successful verdicts and settlements, our legal team led by attorney Michael S. Lamonsoff “The Bull” has demonstrated a commitment to protecting the rights of injured New Yorkers and their families in these cases.
We won $37 million verdict for an elevator mechanic who suffered severe injuries during a repair. In another case, we achieved a $6.5 million settlement award for a union construction worker who fell from an unsecured ladder. To set up your free case evaluation, give us a call at 212-962-1020 or reach us online.