Gravity and Construction Sites
The obvious thought that comes to mind when thinking about how gravity can play an important role in construction site injuries is a construction worker falling to the ground from an elevated position. An equally important and equally dangerous scenario arises when objects fall from an elevated position. The New York Courts have placed an emphasis in ensuring that adequate safety devices are employed when hoisting or lifting materials so that the materials remain secure and the danger to the workers below is decreased significantly. Rocovich v. Consolidated Edison Co., 78 N.Y.2d 509, 577 N.Y.S.2d 219 (1991).
In a perfect world, proper safety devices would always be used on construction sites. In the real world, however, construction companies are focused on maximizing profits. This means that timelines must be followed and deadlines must be met. Sometimes in all the haste, safety protocol and procedures are ignored. The New York Courts have taken an interesting perspective on the harm caused by falling objects on a job site. In Runner v. N.Y. Stock Exch., Inc., 13 N.Y.3d 599, 604, 895 N.Y.S.2d 279, 282 (2009), the Court of Appeals turns the focus of whether “..the harm flows directly from the application of the force of gravity to the object.” Under these guidelines, actually being struck by the object may not even be a prerequisite to a cause of action.
Labor Law Attorneys
If you or a loved one have been injured in a construction accident, please call The Law Firm of Vaughn & Weber, PLLC at (516) 858-2620 to speak with a Labor Law attorney today!
Construction Injury
Recently, we have fielded some phone calls regarding workplace injuries. There seems to be some confusion as to when an employer can be sued. There are also several misconceptions with regards to bringing suit against property owners, general contractors and subcontractors. These questions are answered statutorily by New York Labor Law. Sections 200, 240, 241 are 241-a in particular will control the construction litigation lawsuits in New York. These laws attempt to set the guidelines for a safe work environment for all construction workers. Unfortunately, however, accidents happen. Injuries occur. Often times, these injuries are catastrophic in nature. Large construction companies often “cut corners” to maximize profits. Safety protocol can be compromised in these cuts. The injuries caused by the cut corners can deprive a victim of their life or limbs or ability to care for themselves for the rest of their lives. When these injuries occur, it is important to know your legal rights and remedies. The faster you act, the better you can position yourself to obtain a large award.
It is very important to know that although Worker’s Compensation Law (especially section 11) can be restrictive in terms of seeking contribution or indemnification from a victim’s employer, there are types of injuries that will allow for such a claim to be successful. It is important to consult with an experienced Labor Law attorney when faced with aftermath of such an accident.
Labor Law Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been involved in a workplace accident, call The Law Firm of Vaughn & Weber, PLLC at (516) 858-2620 to speak with a Labor Law attorney today!
OUCH! Tenant loses rent stabilized apt. over Airbnb rentals!
The court held that the tenant had “engaged in profiteering by renting out the apartment or allowing his children to rent out the apartment, to a series of short-term transient tenants for commercial purposes on Airbnb.” Based on online reviews and other evidence presented, the court found that the apartment had been “listed and rented out to travelers through the Airbnb website.”
The court stated that “[s]uch brazen and commercial exploitation of a rent-stabilized apartment significantly undermines the purpose and integrity of the Rent Stabilization Law and Code and is therefore incurable.” Thus, the landlord was awarded a final judgment of possession.
Bpark v. Durena
Forgiven debt may be taxable by the IRS!
The Second Circuit has ruled that debt collectors don’t need to warn clients of the potential tax liabilities associated when making a settlement offer for less than the full amount owed.
In Isaac Altman v. J.C. Christensen & Associates Inc., docket number 14-2240, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit stated in it’s opinion that the “fact that a debtor may then have to pay tax on the amount saved is simply not deceptive…”
Isaac Altman received a letter from J.C. Christensen & Associates stating that he could save up to 50 percent on his $6,000 debt if he made a payment upfront. Altman alleged the letter was deceptive violated the FDCPA’s prohibition against false, deceptive, or misleading representations. As stated above, the Court was not convinced.
So, you may want to consult your accountant/tax preparer before accepting a debt settlement offer. Additionally, you generally won’t have this tax issue if you file for chapter 7 bankruptcy. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to also consult a bankruptcy attorney.
The Law Firm of Vaughn & Weber, PLLC
393 Jericho Tpke. #208
Mineola, NY 11501
(516)-858-260
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