5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid After a Construction Accident on Long Island

Construction sites in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and The Hamptons are some of the most active—and hazardous—work zones in New York. From high-rise developments to estate renovations, workers face serious risks daily.

If you’ve been injured on the job, the steps you take next can make or break your case. Avoiding these five common mistakes can help protect your rights, preserve evidence, and improve your chances of full compensation.

1. Delaying the Injury Report

Even minor injuries should be reported to your supervisor immediately. New York law requires notice to your employer within 30 days, but sooner is always better.

Why it matters:

• Workers’ comp claims: Delays can lead insurers to question whether your injury was truly job-related.
• Third-party lawsuits: Early reporting helps establish when and where the incident occurred—critical for proving liability.

Tip: Use your phone to record a voice memo describing what happened. This could serve as supporting evidence later.

2. Assuming Workers’ Comp Is Your Only Option

Workers’ compensation will cover medical bills and part of your lost wages—but it won’t cover pain and suffering or full lost income.

In many construction cases, third parties may also be liable—such as subcontractors, property owners, or equipment suppliers. If your accident involved a scaffold, ladder, or falling object, learn more about your rights under New York Labor Laws.

3. Failing to Preserve Evidence

Construction sites change fast. Within a day, key hazards may be repaired or removed.

If possible, document right away:

• Photos of the hazard and equipment involved
• Serial numbers on faulty tools
• Your clothing or PPE—stored unwashed in a sealed bag
• Witness names and contact info

Also preserve timestamps (weather, shift logs, surveillance video). Your attorney can request formal site records or service logs as needed.

4. Talking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Help

Insurers—whether yours or the company’s—aren’t working for you. It’s common to be contacted quickly after a construction injury, but don’t sign anything or give a recorded statement before speaking with a lawyer.

Some common tactics we see on Long Island:

• Early lowball offers
• “Friendly” interviews designed to shift blame
• Monitoring your social media for contradictions

Your attorney can handle all communication and protect your interests from day one.

5. Missing Critical Legal Deadlines

Different rules apply depending on who is responsible:

Equipment manufacturers may have separate statute-of-limitation rules—another reason to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

Missing the wrong deadline could limit your ability to file a claim or recover the full compensation you deserve.