His clients call Michael Lamonsoff “The Bull” because he never stops fighting for them. Thanks to “The Bull” and his team of top-rated litigators, the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC., is consistently rated as one of the top personal injury law firms in New York City.
Ladder Accident Lawyer in New York City
Legal Help for New York Workers After a Fall
For many workers in the construction industry, climbing on ladders is a routine part of the job. While ladders are necessary for many building and construction projects, they are inherently dangerous and are one of the most common reasons for injuries on construction sites.
If you or a loved one have been injured from a ladder fall on a construction site, you need the help of an experienced ladder accident lawyer in New York City. The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC, can help.
Ladder Injuries Cause Serious Injuries
In New York City, where space is at a premium, it is not uncommon to see workers routinely required to use ladders of every type and size. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued substantial regulations concerning the proper, safe use of ladders on construction sites.
When these regulations are disregarded by a developer, owner, employer, or contractor, workers often pay the price in serious injury. This is when an award-winning construction injury lawyer from the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC, can help.
Although anyone injured on the job can seek workers’ compensation, the benefits are never enough to cover the expenses and losses a worker sustained. However, powerful laws enacted by the New York State government now allow workers injured from ladder falls to sue the owners, developers and general contractors whose negligence caused the injury by selecting profits over safety. If you have suffered an injury because of a ladder accident at a construction site, the top-rated construction accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC, will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve.
What Are Common Causes of Ladder Accidents?
Ladder accidents can be caused by a variety of circumstances and factors. A large percentage of ladder injuries could have been prevented if proper work conditions, equipment, or safety instructions were provided. Some most common reasons for ladder accidents include:
- Defects in the ladder
- Inappropriate ladder used for the particular situation
- Failing to properly secure the ladder
- Poor maintenance of the ladder
- Using a metal ladder near electrical equipment
- Lack of qualified supervision in the use of the ladder
- Lack of training
- Lack of adequate safety equipment, such as harnesses
What Are Common Ladder Accident Injuries?
The primary accidents that occur because of a ladder are falls, but ladder accidents also happen when a metal ladder comes in contact with a live electrical wire or when an object falls from or onto someone on a ladder.
Every ladder accident is unique in nature, but common construction site injuries that occur from unsafe use of a ladder include:
- Head, neck, back, or spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Sprains
- Crushing
- Electrocution
Types of Ladder Accidents at New York Construction Sites and Other Workplaces
Falls from Ladders Due to Improper Use
Workers may fall when using ladders improperly, such as overreaching, standing on the top rung, or using the wrong type of ladder for the task. These accidents often result in severe injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and spinal cord damage.
Ladder Collapses Caused by Defects or Overloading
Faulty ladders with structural defects, such as broken rungs or compromised supports, can collapse under a worker's weight. Overloading ladders beyond their weight limits also increases the risk of structural failure. Employers who fail to inspect or replace defective ladders may be held liable for resulting injuries.
Ladders Sliding or Tipping Due to Improper Placement
Placing ladders on uneven, unstable, or slippery surfaces can lead to sliding or tipping, causing workers to lose balance and fall. Failure to secure ladders according to OSHA’s safety regulations is a common contributing factor in these incidents.
Contact with Electrical Hazards
Workers using metal ladders near power lines or electrical equipment face a high risk of electrocution. OSHA mandates the use of non-conductive ladders in environments where electrical hazards exist, but violations of this rule frequently lead to fatal accidents.
Multi-Worker Ladder Accidents
Accidents can occur when multiple workers use the same ladder without accounting for weight capacity or when one worker accidentally dislodges the ladder being used by another.
New York City ladder accident lawyer Michael S. Lamonsoff, “The Bull,” will find the evidence to establish liability of the negligent parties in these types of ladder accidents. He will fight to ensure injured workers receive the largest possible compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by these preventable incidents.
Accidents Caused by Unstable or Makeshift Ladders
In some workplaces, particularly on construction sites, workers may use makeshift ladders or unstable alternatives that do not meet OSHA standards. These shortcuts often lead to falls, collapses, or tipping incidents.
Falls While Transitioning to Elevated Surfaces
Workers may lose their balance and fall when they step off a ladder onto the scaffolding, platforms, or other elevated surfaces. Inadequate anchoring or support systems for these transitions can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
Ladders Struck by Falling Objects
Ladders positioned below active work areas can be struck by falling tools, materials, or debris, causing them to destabilize and workers to fall. Employers must implement proper overhead protection and follow OSHA’s safety protocols to prevent these incidents.
Ladders Damaged by Environmental Conditions
Exposure to harsh weather, such as rain, snow, or extreme heat, can weaken ladder materials over time. For example, wooden ladders may rot, and metal ladders may corrode, increasing the likelihood of collapse or breakage during use.
Ladder Strikes During Transportation or Setup
Improper handling of ladders during transportation or setup can result in injuries. Workers may accidentally strike coworkers or objects, causing harm to others or themselves.
OSHA's Regulations for Safe Use of Ladders in New York Workplaces
General Ladder Requirements Under OSHA
Employers must ensure that all ladders meet OSHA’s design and maintenance standards outlined in 29 CFR 1926.1053. Ladders must be capable of supporting at least four times the maximum intended load and should be inspected regularly for defects such as cracks, corrosion, or bent components. Defective ladders must be marked and removed from service immediately.
Proper Ladder Placement and Usage
According to OSHA regulations, ladders must be placed on stable and level surfaces to prevent tipping. When using portable ladders, the base must be secured, and the angle of placement should ensure stability, following the 4-to-1 rule: the base of the ladder should be one foot away from the wall for every four feet of height.
Access and Working from Ladders
Under OSHA standards, ladders must be used only for their intended purposes. Workers should maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) while climbing. Tools or materials should not be carried in hand but instead secured on a tool belt or hoisted separately. Employers are required to provide ladders tall enough to reach work areas without workers needing to stand on the top rung, as stipulated in 29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(13).
Special Requirements for Construction Sites
At New York construction sites, OSHA mandates that fixed ladders longer than 24 feet include ladder safety systems such as cages, wells, or personal fall arrest systems. Temporary ladders must be adequately secured and meet job-specific needs.
Ladders in Warehouses and Manufacturing Sites
For workplaces like warehouses or manufacturing sites, OSHA’s standards emphasize the importance of ensuring that ladders used around forklifts, machinery, or elevated storage areas are non-conductive if there is exposure to electrical hazards. Employers must also ensure that ladders are stored properly to avoid workplace obstructions or potential tipping hazards.
Training Requirements for Ladder Safety
OSHA requires employers to provide comprehensive ladder safety training under 29 CFR 1926.1060. This training must include instruction on proper ladder selection, placement, and usage, as well as recognizing ladder-related hazards. Workers must also be trained to identify and report damaged ladders.
Consequences of OSHA Violations
Failure to comply with OSHA’s ladder safety regulations can result in serious accidents, such as falls leading to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or fractures. Employers violating these safety laws can face significant penalties and liability if such violations contribute to workplace injuries.
New York City ladder accident attorney Michael S. Lamonsoff, “The Bull,” will hold negligent parties accountable for OSHA violations involving ladder misuse or defects and fight to ensure that injured workers receive the highest possible compensation for their injuries and losses.
How Our New York Ladder Accident Lawyer Will Prove Liability of the Negligent Parties
Seasoned New York City ladder injury attorney Michael S. Lamonsoff, “The Bull,” and his team will move fast to investigate various types of negligent actions of contractors, subcontractors, and third parties and find the evidence to prove their liability for the largest possible damages. These may include:
Improper Ladder Selection or Use
Contractors or subcontractors may fail to select the right ladder for the job, leading to accidents. For example, using a wooden ladder in an area exposed to moisture or selecting a ladder that is too short for the task can cause instability and increase the risk of a fall. Our New York ladder accident attorney, Michael Lamonsoff, will collect evidence such as expert opinions, ladder specifications, and photos showing inappropriate ladder use or selection for the task.
Failure to Inspect Ladders for Defects or Damage
Contractors and subcontractors are responsible for ensuring that all ladders are regularly inspected for defects or damage, such as cracks, missing rungs, or bent frames. Negligence in inspection can lead to accidents. Our attorney will review inspection records, maintenance logs, and photographs of damaged ladders to establish that proper safety checks were not conducted.
Ladder Misplacement or Improper Setup
Negligence can also occur when ladders are not placed on stable ground or are positioned at improper angles, making them unsafe to use. Contractors may fail to enforce safety measures that require ladders to be set up correctly and on level ground. Our ladder injury attorney in New York will collect evidence like site photographs, witness testimony, and accident reports to prove that improper setup contributed to the accident.
Failure to Secure Ladders in High-Traffic Areas
Ladders positioned in high-traffic zones without proper barriers or signage can become hazardous. If workers or passersby are unaware of the ladder’s location, there’s a risk of collision or destabilization. Our investigative team will gather evidence such as workplace diagrams, employee statements, and safety plan documentation to show that the ladder was negligently placed in a high-risk area.
Lack of Training for Ladder Safety
Contractors may fail to provide necessary training to workers on the safe use of ladders, including proper climbing techniques, weight limits, and the importance of checking for defects before use. Our NY ladder accident attorney will investigate the employer’s training protocols and interview workers to determine if there was a lack of training that contributed to the injury.
Third-Party Defects in Ladders or Equipment
In some cases, third-party manufacturers or suppliers may provide defective ladders or safety equipment. A manufacturing defect or failure to meet safety standards can make the ladder inherently dangerous. Our ladder accident lawyers in New York City will examine product recall records, manufacturing defects, and third-party inspection reports to hold the manufacturer accountable for supplying faulty equipment.
Inadequate Fall Protection Systems
Contractors and subcontractors may fail to implement proper fall protection measures, such as guardrails or harness systems when ladders are being used at heights. The lack of safety precautions increases the risk of a fall. Our New York ladder accident attorney, Michael Lamonsoff, will gather evidence such as safety policies, OSHA violations, and accident scene photos to show that proper fall protection measures were not provided.
Improper Storage of Ladders
Improper storage of ladders on construction sites or in warehouses can lead to accidents. Ladders that are left in walkways, in high-traffic areas, or stacked improperly may become a tripping hazard or get damaged. Our NYC ladder accident lawyer Michael Lamonsoff “The Bull” will review site storage practices, witness statements, and photographs to demonstrate that improper ladder storage contributed to the injury.
By gathering this critical evidence, Michael Lamonsoff can build a compelling case of negligence against contractors, subcontractors, or third parties that contributed to a ladder accident and hold them liable for maximum damages.
Select Results From Recent Construction Accident Cases:
- $6,500,000 settlement awarded to a union construction worker who fell from an unsecured ladder which resulted in a leg fracture and spinal injuries.
- $5,500,000 verdict awarded construction worker who was injured when a wood bracing collapsed while exiting a ditch resulting in spinal injuries.
- $3,000,000 obtained for a laborer who was injured when he fell from an 18 foot ladder that was not secured properly.
- $1,500,000 recovered in a case involving a construction worker who was injured when he fell from unsecured scaffold.
$16,000,000 Verdict Awarded to a Victim of Sexual Abuse
$12,157,000 Settlement in a Train Derailment Case
$11,750,000 Awarded to a Victim of Wrongful Conviction
$9,000,000 Awarded to a Victim of Municipal Assault
$6,500,000 Settlement in a Construction Accident Case
$5,750,000 Verdict Awarded in a Construction Accident Case
$5,500,000 Verdict Awarded in a Construction Accident Case
$5,000,000 Awarded in a Construction Accident Case
$5,000,000 Settlement Awarded to a Slip & Fall Case
$4,750,000 Awarded to an Injured Construction Worker
$4,100,000 Settlement in a Construction Accident Case
$4,000,000 Awarded to Families of Flight 587 Victims
Michael is such a good man. He's a fantastic lawyer.
He made sure I was taken care of. He didn't let anything stop him from getting me the best settlement. He's truly amazing. If it weren't for Michael I don't know where I'd be right now.
I was afraid to even sue after my accident. I spoke to Michael one time, and I knew I was making the right decision. If you want someone to win your case and take care of you, you need to call Michael.
After a Ladder Accident, What Should I Do?
Seek medical attention as soon as you can following your ladder accident. A medical professional will best be able to determine the extent of your injuries. Some injuries may not seem severe or threatening shortly after your accident; however, a doctor may discover injuries that could become more severe in the future. This future pain can be avoided by simply visiting a doctor following your accident.
File an accident report as soon as possible. It is vital that the circumstances surrounding your accident are documented. The benefit of filing an accident report with your employer is that it can be referenced throughout the course of litigation as memories fade. This record will also assist in determining which parties are liable for your injuries.
Consult an attorney who understands New York construction laws. An attorney familiar with the law involving ladder accidents will be able to advise you as to your rights and the next steps to take. At the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, experienced and aggressive attorneys will help you navigate the complex insurance process and pursue compensation for all of the injuries that you have suffered. We won’t be satisfied until you are fully compensated for your losses.
Contact Us for Help With Your Ladder Accident Claim
If you were injured on the job because of a ladder accident, our personal injury attorneys in NYC can help. We will listen thoughtfully to your story and let you know how you can protect yourself and your family going forward. Let our experience work for you!
Contact our office at 212- 962-1020 for a FREE CONSULTATION at any time.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
Ladder Injuries FAQ
How can defective ladders cause accidents at New York construction sites?
Ladders that are improperly manufactured, have defects, or are not regularly maintained can break, bend, or fail during use, causing serious accidents. Defects may include broken rungs, loose bolts, or faulty locking mechanisms. Manufacturers and employers are responsible for ensuring that ladders meet safety standards.
How can worker fatigue contribute to ladder accidents in New York workplaces?
When workers are fatigued or overworked, their ability to assess risks and maintain balance while using a ladder is impaired, increasing the likelihood of a fall or mishap. This is a particular risk on jobs with long hours or inadequate rest breaks.
Can lack of training lead to ladder accidents on New York construction sites?
Lack of proper training on ladder safety can lead to improper use, such as overreaching, failing to secure the ladder, or using a damaged ladder. Employers are required to provide safety training to workers to prevent such accidents.
What role do weather conditions play in ladder accidents on New York construction sites?
Weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or high winds, can severely impact ladder safety. Slippery surfaces or gusts of wind can cause ladders to shift or become unstable, leading to accidents. Contractors are required to assess weather conditions and adjust safety protocols accordingly to prevent accidents.
What is the employer's responsibility in ensuring ladder safety at New York construction sites?
Employers in New York are legally required to provide safe equipment, including ladders, and ensure that they are properly maintained and free from defects. They must also ensure that workers are adequately trained in ladder safety and that ladders are set up in stable, secure positions. Failure to meet these obligations can be considered negligence.
Can a third party be held liable for a ladder accident on a New York construction site?
Yes, third parties, such as contractors, subcontractors, or even ladder manufacturers, can be held liable for ladder accidents if their actions or negligence contributed to the accident. For instance, a third-party contractor may have failed to properly maintain ladders, or a manufacturer may have produced a defective ladder.
How does OSHA regulate ladder safety, and how does it apply to New York construction accidents?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets strict standards for ladder use at construction sites. This includes guidelines on ladder types, conditions, and safe usage practices. Any violation of these standards can be used as evidence of negligence in a personal injury claim.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a ladder accident claim in New York, and how does it affect my case?
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including ladder accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation. However, accidents at construction sites owned or operated by a municipal entity have a shorter timeframe by which a lawsuit must be filed.