Construction Worker Injured After Falling Through Manhole Cover in Washington Heights

First Responders Rescued Construction Worker After He Fell Through Manhole Cover in Washington Heights

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, MANHATTAN (December 1, 2025) – A construction worker was injured after falling through a manhole in Washington Heights.

New York City officials are saying that the accident took place on November 20. The worker fell roughly 15 feet down the manhole and required extrication.

First responders were able to remove him from the hole and take him to the hospital. A full investigation into the cause of the accident remains ongoing at this time.

Liability for Washington Heights Manhole Accidents

Falls remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death for workers in the construction industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “In 2023, about 1 in 5 (20.8 percent) workplace deaths occurred in the construction industry and 38.5 percent of these deaths were due to falls, slips, and trips. The construction industry accounted for 47.8 percent of all fatal falls, slips, and trips in 2023.” Construction companies should take several measures to prevent falls.

• Workers should be provided with adequate personal fall arrest systems.
• Certain worksites may need scaffolds, guardrails, and other safety measures.
• Construction companies should seal off areas with open manholes and other major fall hazards.

Construction companies and general contractors can be held liable for accidents where workers are injured in falls. Under New York’s scaffold law, liability will typically apply for accidents that are gravity related. This includes situations where a worker falls from heights or is struck by a falling object. It is important that victims of construction accidents take certain steps.

• Victims should seek a thorough medical evaluation as early as possible.
• Victims should let their doctors know that they were injured at work.
• Victims should preserve as much evidence as possible related to the accident.
• Victims should consult with an experienced construction accident attorney.

Construction accidents are often highly preventable. They tend to involve situations where safety protocols are not being followed. For example, a general contractor may have allowed a manhole to remain uncovered at a worksite. Any person injured in a New York City construction accident may be able to seek some measure of justice through a personal claim. A construction accident attorney can examine the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.

Investigating New York City Construction Accidents

We at GLK Law extend our best wishes to the worker injured in this New York City construction accident. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to OSHA. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent similar incidents.

Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a New York City construction accident? You may have legal recourse. Our team of New York City construction accident attorneys is here to help you. We care deeply that accident victims get the support and justice that they deserve. You are always welcome to reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.