Manhattan Crane Accidents: Proof Of The Dangerous Construction Industry

After Hurricane Sandy hit the New York area in October 2012, one of the most visible consequences was the crane that dangled about 1,000 feet above ground in Manhattan. It was tossed about by the wind in the storm, and forced the evacuation of several surrounding buildings. Workers were not able to disassemble the crane because of the dangerous conditions, which put even the surrounding onlookers and residents at risk.

Workers may be particularly vulnerable to construction accidents in New York City. Falls are the most common causes of construction injuries, and New York has a lot of high buildings. Workers and even bystanders who are injured at a construction site may benefit from a consultation with a New York construction accident lawyer.

Construction accidents in New York City

According to research, the construction industry is one of the most dangerous in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2004 that construction workers were 7.7 percent of the U.S. workforce, yet suffered 22.2 percent of the nation’s reported work-related deaths. In addition, the rate of nonfatal injuries and illnesses with days away in construction in 2006 was 71 percent higher than that for all industry as a whole.

It was later discovered that there were several problems at the construction site where the crane snapped in Manhattan, including reports of hydraulic fluid leaking from the crane and problems with the wire rope that held up the boom. Indeed, many construction accidents in New York City that occur every year could have been avoided through sound safety practices, improved equipment, or better maintenance schedules.

A New York construction accident lawyer can help

A NY construction accident lawyer understands that in many cases, an accident didn’t simply happen, but was the result of someone’s negligence. The manufacturer could have designed a safer product, for instance. The workers could have been more competently trained. Unsafe conditions, including uncovered holes and trenches, could have been avoided with signs, guardrails, or other safety measures. The company could have provided fall protection, or had additional staff on site to identify and eliminate hazards.

NY crane accidents are common causes of injuries. Many New Yorkers recall the crane accident in 2008, when a crane towering over the East Side of Manhattan collapsed, slashing an apartment building, crushing a town house, and cutting away a tenement facade. At least four people were killed and more than a dozen injured.

Manhattan personal injury lawyers at The Sanders Firm are familiar with the ins and outs of construction accident lawsuits, and can help you gather the facts and evidence in your case to prepare for the best possible outcome.

Experienced Manhattan personal injury lawyers

If you or someone you love suffered a serious injury because of a crane accident or other construction site accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Whether you were working on the job or were an innocent bystander, you have rights. A New York construction accident lawyer will fight for you against those who are liable. Call us for a free consultation today.