Construction Accident Lawyer in Paterson, New Jersey
Paterson's ongoing urban revitalization has brought a surge of construction activity to the city — from residential developments to commercial projects and infrastructure improvements. Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in America, and Paterson's construction sites are no exception. Falls from scaffolding, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and trench collapses can cause catastrophic injuries or death. If you or a loved one was injured on a construction site in Paterson, you may have claims beyond workers' compensation that can provide significantly more compensation.
Construction Site Dangers in Paterson
Paterson's construction boom has created hazardous conditions across the city. Residential and commercial development projects in the Great Falls Historic District, downtown, and along the Passaic River involve multi-story construction, heavy equipment, and complex demolition work. OSHA data shows that the construction industry accounts for the highest number of workplace fatalities in New Jersey. The most common construction accidents — falls, struck-by objects, electrocutions, and caught-in/between incidents (known as the 'Fatal Four') — account for over 60% of construction worker deaths. Many of these accidents are preventable and result from contractor negligence, OSHA violations, and inadequate safety measures.
Your Legal Options After a Construction Accident
Workers' compensation — provides medical benefits and wage replacement regardless of fault. File immediately with your employer.
Third-party personal injury claims — if a subcontractor, property owner, equipment manufacturer, or another party contributed to your injury, you can sue them for full damages including pain and suffering.
OSHA violation claims — if your employer or the general contractor violated OSHA safety regulations, this strengthens both your workers' comp and third-party claims.
Product liability claims — if defective equipment, tools, or safety gear contributed to your injury, the manufacturer can be held liable.
Wrongful death claims — if a loved one was killed in a construction accident, surviving family members can pursue compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship.
Social Security Disability — for permanent disabilities that prevent you from returning to construction work.
Compensation for Construction Accident Victims
Construction accident injuries are often severe and life-changing. Victims may be entitled to substantial compensation through multiple legal channels.
Why Choose SettleWell for Your Construction Accident Case in Paterson?
SettleWell's attorney network includes construction accident specialists who understand OSHA regulations, New Jersey workers' compensation law, and the complex web of liability on multi-contractor construction sites. Our attorneys know how to identify every responsible party — general contractors, subcontractors, property owners, equipment manufacturers — to maximize your total recovery.
Statute of Limitations in New Jersey
Workers' compensation claims must be filed within 2 years of the injury. Third-party personal injury claims also have a 2-year statute of limitations. OSHA complaints should be filed within 6 months. Report your injury immediately and contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue my employer for a construction accident?
Generally, workers' compensation is your exclusive remedy against your direct employer. However, you can sue third parties — general contractors, subcontractors, property owners, and equipment manufacturers — for full damages including pain and suffering.
What if I'm an undocumented worker injured on a construction site?
Immigration status does not affect your right to workers' compensation or personal injury claims in New Jersey. You are entitled to the same benefits and legal protections as any other worker.
What are the most common construction accident injuries?
Traumatic brain injuries from falls, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, crush injuries, burns, electrocution injuries, and amputations. Many of these result in permanent disability.
How much is a construction accident case worth?
Construction accident cases with serious injuries typically settle for $100,000-$1,000,000+. Cases involving permanent disability, wrongful death, or egregious safety violations can result in multi-million dollar verdicts.