New York construction sites are notorious for accidents and safety violations. In recent months, numerous work injuries and two deaths have been reported from workers falling. Falls from heights are among the most common accidents on construction sites, and a recent tragedy highlights the importance of fall prevention.
Around 2 p.m., two workers were installing flooring in a building when they caught a glimpse of two men falling from a construction site across the street. For unknown reasons, the 45-year-old workers on a bucket lift toppled over the edge of the banister to the pavement three stories below. It is not clear if the men were using fall-prevention equipment at the time. Currently, the project owes $1,500 in penalties from previous safety violations.
One man landed face-first, and the witnesses said he never moved after landing. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene. The second man landed on his side and was rushed to the hospital. He is expected to survive, but his injuries are likely catastrophic. A spokesman for the construction company refused to elaborate about the details of the accident or the condition of the victim, but he expressed his sorrow and assured the public the company is cooperating with New York authorities investigating the accident.
Victims of work injuries and their families depend on the benefits of workers’ compensation to cover their medical expenses and lost wages. When accidents result in death, survivors benefits typically apply. Dealing with the aftermath of such a horrific accident may be more than a family can handle. This is why many turn to an attorney to handle the complicated task of filing for workers’ compensation benefits.
Source: dnainfo.com, “Worker Dead, Another Injured in Fall at 9th Ave. Construction Site”, Carly Miller and Maya Rajamani, Sept. 21, 2017