QUEENS CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENT LAWYER

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Alex Nocerino

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Alex Nocerino is a founding partner at our firm and a successful trial lawyer with roots in New York. He is a member of the New York State Bar Association, the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, and the American Association for Justice. He has helped injured individuals win hundreds of millions in compensation from large corporations, government entities, and wealthy landlords.

With 18 years of experience, he has been recognized as a Super Lawyer since 2019 and has a five-star Avvo rating. He is a true New Yorker and a successful trial lawyer who is unafraid to go up against even the powerful and combative defendants.

Content Last Updated: March 2, 2026

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Construction sites in Queens are among the most hazardous workplaces in New York. In 2026, the borough is undergoing significant transformations with ongoing activity from Willets Point to Queens Boulevard. One misstep near scaffolding, heavy equipment, or debris can lead to a life-changing injury. If you’ve been hurt on a construction site, you’re facing more than just physical recovery. The financial burden of medical bills and lost wages can be overwhelming, and the legal complexities add another layer of stress.

If you’ve been hurt on-site, you are likely facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and a complex legal system designed to protect insurance companies, not you. At Chopra & Nocerino, our Queens construction accident lawyers are committed to fighting for your rights. We specialize in personal injury law and understand what it takes to secure the full compensation you deserve. As the exclusive personal injury firm for the New York Mets, we’re always ready to go the extra mile for our clients. Contact us today at (855) NYC-HURT or complete our online form for a free consultation. Time is critical, evidence fades, and deadlines matter in construction accident cases. Let us handle the legal fight while you focus on your recovery.

Why Choose Chopra & Nocerino for Construction Accident Cases in Queens, NY?

At Chopra & Nocerino, we know that construction accidents can have life-altering consequences. Our role is to help you and your family by providing high-quality legal representation. Our knowledgeable attorneys have many years of experience handling construction accident cases.

We will step up to the plate both in and out of court. When the at-fault party and their insurers try to minimize or deny the full and fair value of your claim, you can count on us to push back hard.

“I highly recommend this law firm. The attorneys and staff are professional, knowledgeable, very thorough and compassionate. They truly work hard to get the best outcome for their clients. You will not be pressured to take an offer when they know you deserve more for your injuries. I am truly blessed to have been referred to Chopra & Nocerino.”

– Deborah Cullum

Our firm has secured hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. Our case results and client testimonials speak for themselves:

Construction Accident Case Results that Chopra & Nocerino Have Secured

$3.5 million settlement. A male construction worker, age 28, suffered a severe hand injury requiring surgery.
$3 million settlement. A male construction worker, age 42, fell off a ladder and injured his spine in Manhattan, New York.
$550K settlement. 49-year-old female electrician fell off scaffolding and sustained shoulder and neck injuries

If you or someone you love were injured in a New York construction accident, reach out to Chopra & Nocerino. We are a full-service personal injury law firm defending the rights of injury victims throughout all five boroughs of New York. Below are some of the neighborhoods we serve in Queens:

Corona
Jackson Heights
Elmhurst
Rego Park
Ridgewood
Woodhaven
Pomonk

Types of Queens Construction Accident Cases We Handle

We handle a wide variety of construction accident cases in Queens. Our team is dedicated to representing workers who’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions, negligence, or violations of safety regulations. Some of the most common types of construction accidents we handle include:

Scaffolding Accidents: These incidents often result in serious falls due to improper scaffolding setup or maintenance. We work to hold responsible parties accountable for these dangerous conditions.
Falls from Heights: Whether it’s from ladders, scaffolding, or roofs, falls from heights are some of the most common and severe accidents on construction sites.
Machinery and Equipment Accidents: When construction equipment or machinery malfunctions or isn’t properly maintained, workers can suffer catastrophic injuries. Our team is experienced in investigating these complex cases.
Trench Collapses: Workers in trenches or excavations are at risk of being buried if proper safety measures aren’t in place. We fight for justice in these high-risk situations.
Electrical and Fire Hazards: Accidents caused by faulty wiring or inadequate safety protocols often lead to devastating injuries, including burns or electrocution.

What Compensation Can I Expect From A Construction Accident Claim?

1. Workers’ Compensation (The Floor)

Through your employer, you are generally entitled to:

Medical Expenses: 100% coverage for injury-related treatment.
Lost Wages: A portion of your average weekly wage.
Disability Benefits: Payments for permanent or temporary impairment.

2. Third-Party Lawsuits (The Ceiling)

Workers’ Comp is rarely enough to sustain a family. If a party other than your employer (such as a site owner, general contractor, or equipment manufacturer) was negligent, you can sue for:

Full Economic Damages: The total difference in your lifetime earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive Damages: Awarded in cases of gross negligence to punish the wrongdoer.

FAQs About Construction Accidents in Queens, NY

How Long Do I Have to File a Construction Accident Claim in Queens?

In New York, you normally have three years from the date of your personal injury to file a lawsuit. Though there are exceptions, if you don’t file before that deadline, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation in court.

The deadlines are different for workers’ compensation claims. You must notify your employer within 30 days after the incident, preferably in writing. Further, you have two years to file a workers’ compensation claim.

What if I Am Partially at Fault for the Construction Accident in Queens, NY?

Workers’ compensation is no-fault insurance. This means eligible employees are covered regardless of who caused the accident.

Further, in New York, even those who are partially at fault can collect compensation through a lawsuit. The amount of damages you recover will be reduced proportionally based on how much fault you’re assigned. For example, if you were 20 percent at fault and suffered $100,000 in damages, you may still collect $80,000.

What Specific Evidence Should I Gather Immediately After a Construction Accident?

After a construction accident, it’s crucial to gather as much evidence as possible. This includes photos of the scene, any visible injuries, and unsafe conditions, such as defective equipment or hazardous debris. If possible, obtain the witness’s contact information and obtain a copy of the accident report. This evidence will help support your claim and strengthen your case.

What Are the Typical Legal Fees or Payment Structures for Construction Accident Attorneys at Chopra & Nocerino?

At Chopra & Nocerino, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Our fees are typically a percentage of the compensation you receive. We’ll clearly explain the fee structure upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.

How Long Does a Typical Construction Accident Lawsuit Take From Start to Finish in New York?

The timeline for a construction accident lawsuit in New York varies depending on the case’s complexity. On average, it can take anywhere from several months to a few years to reach a resolution. Our team works efficiently to move your case forward while ensuring we don’t compromise the quality of your legal representation.

Can I Receive Compensation as an Undocumented Worker?

Yes, undocumented workers can still receive compensation for injuries sustained in a construction accident. New York law allows undocumented workers to pursue workers’ compensation benefits and, in some cases, file lawsuits against third parties who are responsible for the accident. You have the right to seek compensation, regardless of your immigration status.

Knowing Your Rights as a Construction Worker in Queens, NY

As a construction worker in Queens, you need to know your rights. Numerous workplace safety laws help keep you secure on the job. These include:

Right to a Safe Workplace – Section 200 of the New York Labor Law states that employers must operate and maintain reasonably safe work environments. While it’s not possible to eliminate all hazards on a construction site, employers, managers, and property owners are required to take steps to warn their workers about potential hazards and to remedy them when possible.
The Scaffold Law – Section 240 provides important protections for construction workers at risk of suffering falls. For example, Subsection 2 states that employers need to have safety rails installed on any scaffolding that’s going to be used 20 or more feet above ground. The safety railing should enclose the full length of the scaffolding to prevent falls, and the scaffolding itself should hold at least four times the weight of the objects and people using it.
Additional Protections for Construction Workers – Section 241 features many different requirements, including covering open shafts, stairwells, and hatchways with two-inch or thicker planks.

These are just some of the protections you should know about as a construction worker in Queens. If you were hurt on the job due to violations, you may be entitled to compensation.

Who Can Be Liable For A Construction Accident In Queens?

Various parties may be held liable for the injuries or deaths that occur in construction accidents. Potentially liable parties may include:

Construction Site Owners – Site owners might be liable, especially if the accident resulted from inherent site hazards they knew or should have known about.
General Contractors and Subcontractors – These parties have a duty to ensure the work environment is safe, adhering to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and other safety regulations. Failure to do so can result in liability.
Architects and Engineers – They are responsible for the design and sometimes the oversight of construction. They can be held liable for accidents stemming from design flaws, inadequate instructions, or failure to monitor compliance with safety standards and building codes.
Equipment Manufacturers – If an accident is caused by defective construction machinery or tools, the manufacturer can be held liable under product liability laws.
Material Suppliers – Suppliers may be liable if the accident was caused by faulty materials that failed to meet safety standards or specifications.

Determining liability in construction accidents requires a thorough legal and factual analysis, taking into account contracts, the direct and indirect actions of the parties involved, and the specific circumstances leading to the accident. Our experienced construction accident attorneys can navigate these complexities to identify all potential sources of liability.

Causes and Injuries in New York Construction Accidents

Construction sites are inherently risky environments, with various hazards that can lead to accidents. Understanding common causes and the types of injuries that can result is crucial for implementing safety measures and protocols. Here’s an overview:

Common Causes of Construction Accidents

Falls – From scaffolding, ladders, and roofs.
Struck-By Incidents – Involving falling objects, swinging construction materials, or moving vehicles.
Electrocutions – Due to contact with power lines, improper use of equipment, or exposed wiring.
Machinery Accidents – Involving heavy machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and forklifts.
Exposure to Hazardous Materials – Including chemicals, asbestos, and silica.
Trench or Structure Collapses – Leading to workers being trapped or buried.
Fires and Explosions – Due to flammable materials or gasses.

Common Injuries in Construction Accidents

Broken Bones – From falls, being struck by objects, or accidents involving heavy machinery.
Head Injuries – Including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from falls or being struck by objects.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis – Due to severe falls or being caught between heavy objects.
Cuts and Lacerations – From tools, machinery, and materials.
Burns – From fires, explosions, or electrical accidents.
Amputations – Resulting from machinery accidents or severe injuries that necessitate surgical removal of a limb.
Hearing Loss – Due to prolonged exposure to loud noises without proper ear protection.
Respiratory Diseases – From inhaling dust, chemicals, or toxic substances like asbestos.
Overexertion and Repetitive Stress Injuries – From manual labor, lifting, and repetitive motions.
Eye Injuries – Due to flying debris, dust, or chemical splashes, potentially leading to temporary or permanent vision loss.

Addressing these injuries and their underlying causes through rigorous safety standards, training, and protective gear is essential for minimizing the risk of accidents on construction sites.

Life Threw You a Curveball? Contact Chopra & Nocerino Today To Fight for Your Interests

Construction sites are some of the most hazardous places to work, and employers have a responsibility to keep them as safe as possible. If you or someone you know gets hurt on the job, it’s essential that you contact a Queens construction accident attorney for support. We are here to help. Call (855) NYC-HURT or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.

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