New York is the only state with the 'Scaffold Law' (Labor Law Section 240). This law recognizes that construction work at heights is inherently dangerous and puts the responsibility for safety squarely on owners and general contractors.
What constitutes a 'Gravity-Related' Risk?
The law covers two main types of accidents:
- Falling Workers: If you fall from a ladder, scaffold, or edge because proper safety devices (like harnesses or railings) weren't provided or failed.
- Falling Objects: If a tool, brick, or debris falls and strikes you because it wasn't properly secured.
Absolute Liability Explained
In most personal injury cases, the defense tries to blame the victim ('comparative negligence'). Under Section 240, if a safety violation caused your fall, it does not matter if you were partially at fault. The owner/contractor is 100% liable. This is a powerful tool for injured workers to get maximum compensation.
We Fight for Union and Non-Union Workers
Whether you are Local 79, Local 3, or non-union, you have the same rights under state law. Do not let your employer threaten you. Your safety—and your livelihood—is protected by New York law.