Investigation Underway After Construction Worker Died In Brooklyn Building Collapse Accident At Property By 50th Street and 13th Avenue
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK (September 12, 2024) – A worker has tragically died after the first floor of an illegally built home collapsed on top of him by 50th Street and 13th Avenue.
New York City officials are saying that the incident took place around noon on Friday. A man was working at the home when the first floor suddenly gave way.
Debris rained down and pinned the worker. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim.
Workers were able to extricate the victim from the rubble. But efforts to save him were not successful.
The Department of Buildings issued a stop work order.
Liability for New York City Construction Accidents
Despite years of improved safety standards, many workers are killed or seriously injured every year in construction projects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “In 2021, nearly 1 in 5 workplace deaths occurred in the construction industry. Just over one-third of construction deaths were due to falls, slips, and trips. Of these, almost all were from falls to a lower level. The construction industry accounted for 46.2 percent of all fatal falls, slips, and trips in 2021.” Construction companies should take a number of measures in order to keep workers safe.
- All construction workers should be trained to recognize workplace hazards.
- Construction companies should follow all safety guidelines by OSHA.
- Construction companies should maintain their worksites in a safe condition.
Depending on the facts of any case, a general contractor could be liable for a worker’s death under New York Labor Law 200. General contractors have a legal obligation to maintain worksites in a reasonably safe condition. If a general contractor fails to follow safety guidelines for building demolitions, this could form the basis of a civil claim. Victims of construction accidents tend to suffer very serious injuries.
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Death
Construction accidents are often highly preventable. They tend to occur when safety guidelines are not followed. In particular, heavy equipment like excavators and wrecking balls may not be used properly. It is crucial that accident victims and their families understand that they do have rights. The family of any person that died in a construction accident may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.
Investigating New York City Construction Accidents
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family of the construction worker that died in this Brooklyn accident. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to OSHA. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a Bay Ridge, Brooklyn construction accident? You may have legal recourse. Our team of construction accident attorneys is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
