Worker Killed In Douglaston, Queens Garbage Truck Accident

Investigation Underway After Worker Died In Douglaston, Queens Sanitation Truck Accident

QUEENS, NEW YORK (September 22, 2024) –  A worker has tragically died in a Douglaston, Queens sanitation truck accident by the Sanitation Department’s Queens East Garage.

New York City officials are saying that the incident took place around 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. The worker was attempting a u-turn outside of the station when he fell from the truck.

At some point during the operation, he slipped under the 65,000 lb sanitation truck and was run over. Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim.

Despite life-saving measures, he was pronounced dead. This is the first time a sanitation worker has been killed in the line of duty.

A full investigation remains ongoing.

Liability For Queens Garbage Truck Accidents

Thousands of people are killed or seriously injured every year in truck accidents. According to the National Safety Council, “In 2022, 5,837 large trucks were involved in a fatal crash, an 1.8% increase from 2021 and a 49% increase in the last 10 years. The involvement rate per 100 million large-truck miles traveled is up 3% from 2021, and up 24% in the last 10 years.” Many of the victims are workers. Companies and state agencies should take a number of measures in order to protect workers.

• Companies should ensure that workers are properly trained.
• Companies should ensure that their vehicles are well maintained and regularly inspected.
• Companies should follow safety regulations by OSHA.

When a worker is injured or killed on the job, they or their family may have legal recourse through a civil claim. Pursuant to New York Labor Law 200, construction companies must provide workers with a reasonably safe environment for employees and those lawfully frequenting work sites. The statute requires, “All machinery, equipment, and devices in such places shall be so placed, operated, guarded, and lighted as to provide reasonable and adequate protection to all such persons.” It is important that evidence is properly preserved after any worker’s death.

• Medical records should be preserved.
• Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
• Photos of the accident site should be taken.
• Any vehicles involved should be inspected.

It can be hard to know where to begin after any worker’s death. These incidents are often highly preventable and involve safety lapses. In particular, many workers do not receive the safety training that they may need. The family of any worker that died on the job may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.

Investigating New York City Garbage Truck Accidents

We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family of the worker who died at the Sanitation Department’s Queens East Garage in Douglaston. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to OSHA. It is our sincere hope that measures are taken to prevent similar tragedies.

Do you need more information about a Douglaston garbage truck accident? Our team of worker’s rights advocates 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 just 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.