Steel Repair Plate Falls on Contractor Working Beneath the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge
NEW YORK, NEW YORK (October 31, 2026) – A contract worker was seriously injured in a construction accident at the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge in New York City.
New York City officials are saying that the incident occurred around 9:30 AM on Wednesday, October 21. The worker was on scaffolding beneath the roadway when a heavy steel plate fell onto his leg.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the accident to help the victim. He was wearing a harness at the time of the incident, but he was not able to get down from his position on his own.
He was transported to a local area hospital to receive treatment for a knee injury. A full investigation by OSHA remains ongoing at this time.
Liability for RFK Bridge Construction Accidents
New York’s Labor Law § 240(1), often called the Scaffold Law, allows building owners and contractors to be held strictly liable for gravity-related accidents. This includes accidents in which workers fall or are struck by some type of falling object. Liability will not depend solely on whether or not the owner was directly supervising the work being performed. Any accident involving a falling object will typically turn on a few key issues.
- Secured Loads: Contractors are supposed to secure loads to prevent them from becoming potential hazards.
- Debris Nets: Debris nets can also be strung across certain areas to deflect falling objects.
- Fall Protection: Workers should be provided personal fall arrest systems if they are working at a height of 6 feet or more.
- Competent Oversight: Work sites should have a competent person to oversee scaffold and other key safety equipment.
Courts have made it clear who can be responsible when any worker is injured by a falling object in New York. Consider, for example, Narducci v. Manhasset Bay Associates. A worker must show more than just that the object fell. The object must’ve been secured or hoisted, and the injury must’ve been the result of some type of inadequate safety device. This could include situations where an important work tool fell from an elevated platform. Any worker injured by a falling object may be able to pursue damages through a bodily injury claim.
Investigating Construction Accidents in New York City
We at GLK Law extend our best wishes to the worker injured in this New York City accident beneath the RFK Bridge. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent additional incidents at this location. Any person that may have additional information should reach out to OSHA.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a workplace accident in New York City? You may be entitled to significant financial compensation. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is here to help you. We care deeply that victims get the medical and financial assistance that they need to recover and move forward with their lives. You are always welcome to reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
