Stairway Accident Lawyers

When a construction worker is caused to fall from a broken, unsteady, or unsecured ladder, serious injuries can result, including broken bones, neck and back injuries, spinal cord injuries, and even death. The most common ladder-related construction accidents involve situations where a worker is caused to fall because the ladder they were using was not adequately secured, and unexpectedly moves, causing them to fall. Accidents commonly arise when ladders are not held in position while they are being used or otherwise fastened or secured from movement, where ladders are too short for the purpose and force the worker to stand on a high rung on the ladder where it is less steady, and were ladders are not kept in good condition.

Ladder Labor Law

New York Labor Law § 240 (1), also known as the "Scaffolding Law," places the responsibility on contractors and owners to ensure that adequate safety practices and equipment are provided, including adequate and secured ladders. It is important to note that this is not the responsibility of the workers. The central purpose of the Scaffolding Act is to protect workers exposed to risks related to lifting and to prevent them from falling. New York Labor Law § 241 (6), along with the New York Industrial Code, includes many rules that apply to ladders. For example, the Industrial Code requires that all ladders be maintained in good condition and prohibits the use of ladders if they are broken or have any defect or defect that could cause their failure.

Another provision requires that any stairway used as a regular means of access between floors or different levels in a building or structure be nailed or otherwise secured in place. If you, or someone you know, were injured after a fall from a defective or inadequately insured ladder while performing construction work, the injured worker can file a lawsuit to obtain fair compensation for his or her injuries.