Construction Worker Struck His Head on Beam in Fatal Midtown, Manhattan Cherry Picker Accident
MIDTOWN, NEW YORK (December 21, 2024) – A construction worker has tragically died in a Midtown, Manhattan cherry picker accident by East 34th Street.
New York City officials are saying that the incident took place around 9:20 a.m. on Friday. Two workers were in a cherry picker when one of them struck their head on a beam.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim. A 35-year-old worker was hospitalized but is expected to survive.
A 45-year-old worker lost consciousness and ultimately died at the hospital. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
Liability for Midtown Construction Accidents
Despite many years of safety improvements, many people are killed or seriously injured in construction accidents every year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “In 2022, nearly 1 in 5 workplace deaths occurred in the construction industry and 38.4 percent of these deaths were due to falls, slips, and trips. The construction industry accounted for close to half, 47.4 percent, of all fatal falls, slips, and trips in 2022.” There are a number of common causes of construction accidents.
- Workers may not have sufficient fall protection gear.
- Workers may have been struck by debris, including tools.
- Workers may come into contact with live electrical wires.
- Workers may be caught in between heavy machinery and other objects.
Depending on the facts of any case, a construction company could be liable for the death of a construction worker. Pursuant to New York Labor Law 200, construction companies must maintain their worksites in a reasonably safe condition. If a dangerous condition at a construction site contributes to a fatal accident, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. Victims of construction accidents often suffer very serious injuries.
- Broken bones
- Amputations
- Lacerations
- Death
Construction companies have an incentive to complete projects as quickly and efficiently as possible. But this desire can create tension with respect to safety regulations. Many construction accidents could be avoided if all safety regulations were diligently followed. The family of any person who 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 worker who died in this cherry picker accident. Any person who may have more information should reach out to OSHA. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what happened so that similar tragedies can be prevented.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a New York City construction accident? You may have legal recourse through a civil claim. Our team of construction accident attorneys is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims get the support and justice they are owed under the law. You can reach us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
