In a recent construction incident that unfolded in Upper Manhattan, the industry's inherent risks again came to the forefront.
As reported by the NY Post and FOX5, five individuals, believed to be construction workers, sustained injuries when a crane attached to a small boom truck collapsed at a construction site on Ninth Avenue near West 207th Street.
The incident, occurring around 2:30 p.m., left three with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and two with minor injuries.
Understanding the Incident:
A major setback occurred at the construction site, which was intended to house a 211,000-square-foot building with commercial and residential spaces. Reports and video evidence indicate that the crane fell while transferring a load of plywood, injuring people and stopping work on the project.
Prior Warning and Safety Measures:
The Department of Buildings (DOB) opened an investigation as a result. The incident calls safety procedures and preventive measures into question, especially in light of the DOB's recent warning to crane operators and contractors.
The strong storm that produced the advisory, which featured 60 mph wind gusts and a lot of rain, stressed the need for preventative action.
The DOB's warning note emphasizes the need for increased awareness during inclement weather conditions, even though it is still unclear whether weather played a part in the incident.
Construction sector professionals must be proactive in identifying and reducing potential risks, particularly when using large machinery like cranes and boom trucks.
How Accidents Like These Can Be Avoided:
Ensuring the safety of construction sites involves a multifaceted approach. From regular equipment inspections to adherence to weather-related advisories, every step counts. The Ward Law Group emphasizes the significance of:
- Routine Equipment Inspections: Regular checks and maintenance of construction equipment, including cranes and boom trucks, are vital to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
- Adherence to Safety Protocols: Strict adherence to established safety protocols, especially during adverse weather conditions, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
- Continuous Training: Ongoing training for construction workers on the latest safety measures, equipment operation, and emergency response can enhance preparedness and mitigate potential risks.
Recovering from Construction-Related Injuries:
Understanding the legal options available for those affected by construction accidents is crucial.
The Ward Law Group, with over 30 years of experience, is committed to assisting victims in seeking the compensation they deserve.
Construction-related injuries can lead to medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Our team specializes in navigating the legal complexities to ensure our clients receive fair and just compensation.
Some of the most common types of injuries include the following:
- Falls: Falls from heights, including ladders, scaffolding, or roofs.
- Struck-by Object: Injuries caused by objects falling or being thrown.
- Electrocution: Accidents involving electrical hazards or faulty wiring.
- Caught in or Between Objects: Injuries from being caught in or compressed by equipment or structures.
- Slips and Trips: Accidents resulting from wet or uneven surfaces.
- Crush Injuries: Injuries caused by being caught between heavy machinery or materials.
- Burns: Injuries from fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome from repeated movements.
- Exposure to Harmful Substances: Contact with toxic chemicals or hazardous materials.
- Trench Collapse Injuries: Injuries sustained during excavation or trenching accidents.
- Equipment Malfunction: Injuries caused by the malfunction of construction equipment.
- Respiratory Issues: Conditions resulting from exposure to dust, asbestos, or other airborne contaminants.
- Heat-Related Illnesses: Conditions like heatstroke or heat exhaustion.
- Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Hearing damage due to prolonged exposure to loud construction noises.
- Muscle Strains and Sprains: Injuries from lifting, carrying, or repetitive tasks.
It is important to remember the unpredictability of construction work and the value of preventative safety measures in light of the recent incident that occurred in Upper Manhattan.
The Ward Law Group advises people with similar cases to get legal advice as soon as possible. We can all work together to create a safer construction site by putting safety first and being proactive.
For a free consultation and legal guidance if you have been impacted by a construction-related accident, get in touch with The Ward Law Group now!
Find us in our new offices in New York: 535 5th Ave Suite 910, New York, NY 10017.
Or give us a call at 646-956-2797!
Jany Martinez Ward
Partner
Jany Martínez-Ward is a Founding and Managing Partner of The Ward Law Group, PL, a Florida law firm representing victims of car accidents. She focuses her practice on providing legal representation to Hispanic clients that have become injured in a car accident as a result of the negligence of others. In 2018, The National Trial Lawyers Association recognized Jany as one of the top attorneys in the state and among the top 40 under 40 attorneys.
Author's Bio