Case Study: $1.9 Million Settlement for Bridge Painter Injured in Fall Due to Lack of a Safety Harness

Case Type: Lack of a Fall Protection System

Our construction accident attorneys successfully secured a $1,900,000 settlement for a bridge painter who fell from an elevated platform and sustained a fractured ankle because he did not receive proper fall protection, including a safety harness and lifeline. 

Case Overview 

The injured worker was performing maintenance work on a bridge when he lost his balance and fell from a platform. Despite working at an elevated height, he was not given a safety harness or a secure lifeline which he could clip onto a secure anchor point to prevent a fall.  He suffered a serious ankle fracture that required surgery and extensive rehabilitation. 

Legal Strategy & Worker Protection Under New York Law 

Falls from heights are a leading cause of injury and death to New York construction workers. New York’s construction safety laws impose liability on property owners and contractors who fail to provide adequate fall protection.  

Our personal injury attorneys, knowledgeable in New York construction laws intended to protect construction works showed: 

• Violations of Labor Law § 240(1)   This law holds construction site owners and their general contractors responsible for failing to provide proper fall protection, including safety harnesses and lifelines for workers on elevated surfaces. 
• Labor Law § 241(6): This statute mandates compliance with the New York Industrial Code, which requires fall protection for construction workers at elevated heights.  heights. 
• Labor Law § 200: This law requires owners and contractors to ensure a safe place to work.   
• Failing to provide necessary fall protection violated these worker protection laws. 

Settlement Outcome 

Our firm aggressively prosecuted the case, showing our client’s fall and injuries were preventable had the contractor followed New York safety regulations. We used expert testimony, medical evidence, and site inspections to show that the lack of a safety harness and lifeline directly caused the fall and resulting injuries. 

As trial approached, the defendants agreed to a $1.9 million settlement, giving our client compensation for his medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and  long-term rehabilitation 

Fighting for Injured Construction Workers 

New York’s Labor Laws are designed to protect construction workers from preventable falls, but violations are still common. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a lack of safety equipment or adequate fall protection, you have the right to pursue full compensation under New York Labor Law. 

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.