Navigating Construction Accident Injury Claims

Trial Talk: Insights from Legal Expert Michael Joseph

In this episode of Trial Talk, Christine interviews seasoned New York trial attorney Michael Joseph, who shares valuable insights into construction site accidents and legal protections for injured workers. With over 20 years in personal injury, commercial litigation, and criminal defense, Michael provides an in-depth look at common construction accident causes, such as unsafe ladders, scaffolds, falling objects, and slips or trips. He highlights the legal responsibilities of contractors and landowners to ensure safe work environments, explaining that breaches of safety regulations can lead to liability.

A key focus of the discussion is New York’s Ladder Law (Labor Law 240), which mandates safe conditions for workers at elevations. Michael clarifies that workers injured due to unsafe equipment can sue, even if their employer provided the equipment. The episode also covers when construction workers can sue for injuries under labor law violations, with specific exceptions for residential projects.

Michael also addresses unique accident cases, including falling objects and trench collapses, and the federal protections for marine construction workers under the Longshore Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, which can offer higher compensation than state workers' comp.

. To learn more, listeners are encouraged to visit NewYorkTrialLawyers.org.

Timestamps:

00:00:17 - Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents
00:02:05 - Falling Object Cases
00:03:09 - Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents
00:03:41 - Saw and Circular Saw Cases
00:04:12 - Trench Accidents
00:04:43 - Demolition Accidents
00:05:04 - Legal Responsibilities of Contractors and Landowners
00:05:52 - Understanding the Ladder Law
00:06:55 - Liability When a Ladder Breaks
00:09:31 - When Can Construction Workers Sue for Injuries?
00:11:02 - Falling Object Injuries
00:11:45 - Lack of Fall Protection
00:12:18 - Worker Rights in Marine Construction
00:14:08 - Injuries from Wall Collapses During Demolition
00:14:58 - Suing for Trench Collapse Injuries
00:15:37 - Case Study: Excavation Injury

About The Show

In each episode, join us as we dive deep into various aspects of New York personal injury law with esteemed trial lawyer Michael Joseph. Michael shares his wealth of knowledge and experience in navigating complex legal cases from the bustling streets of New York to the courtrooms of Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and White Plains.

Join us on "Trial Talk" as we demystify the legal landscape of personal injury law, offering valuable insights and practical advice for legal professionals and those seeking justice in the aftermath of accidents and injuries.