Nelson Bernard, of Hoosick Falls, Died In Accident At Saratoga Springs Construction Site After Being Hit By Falling Debris
SARATOGA SPRINGS, NEW YORK (December 13, 2022) – A construction worker identified as Nelson Bernard died in a workplace accident after being hit by falling debris.
Saratoga Springs officials are saying that the accident took place around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Nelson Bernard was working when he was hit by falling debris.
Paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. The worker was taken to Saratoga Hospital and then transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital.
Despite life-saving measures, Nelson Bernard later died as a result of his injuries. A full investigation into the accident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Saratoga Springs Construction Accidents
Falls are one of the leading causes of death and serious injury for construction workers in New York. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “In 2020, more than 1 in 5 workplace deaths occurred in the construction industry. Just over one-third of the deaths in this industry were due to falls, slips, and trips, and were almost entirely from falls to a lower level.” A large number of deaths and serious injuries are due to workers struck by falling objects. There are a number of steps that construction companies should take to protect workers from falling objects.
- Most construction workers will need to wear a hard hat.
- Equipment should never be left on elevated platforms.
- Protective nets should be installed in certain areas.
Construction companies have a non-delegable duty to maintain their work sites in a reasonably safe condition. They must protect workers from being struck by falling objects. When a worker is injured in a construction accident a general contractor or owner could be held strictly liable under New York State Labor Law § 240/241. This statute, commonly referred to as the “Scaffold Law” covers most gravity related accidents at construction sites. Victims of construction accidents tend to suffer very serious and costly injuries including:
- Broken bones
- head injuries
- Lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
The family of any worker that is killed on the job may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover many of the expenses that can come with the sudden loss of a loved one. Sadly, though, it is common for construction companies to deny liability for any accident. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Saratoga Springs Construction Accident
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family of Nelson Bernard. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other accidents like this. Safety should always be the number one priority for every construction company.
Do you need more information about a Saratoga Springs construction accident? Our team of consumer safety advocates are 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 just have legal questions or need any type of support after an accident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
