Crane accidents continue to take workers’ lives in NYC

In New York City, we often hear about the devastation caused by crane accidents. In 2016, a massive NYC crane collapse that killed one person and injured three others made national headlines.

As more incidents continue to occur, it’s apparent that those who are responsible for managing and operating cranes haven’t learned from the errors that led to previous catastrophes.

City officials crack down after two serious crane accidents

Over the summer, city officials ordered 22 citywide construction sites to cease the use of cranes following two serious accidents. In both incidents, the cranes were run by the same Long Island City-based company: United Crane and Rigging.

The Real Deal reported that the company was required to replace the workers who oversaw the most recent accident. In addition, the company was hit with five violations and up to $110,000 in fines issued by the Department of Buildings (DOB). In one of the violations, they were cited for failing to have adequate safety measures in place.

In April, the first reported incident involved a worker who was crushed to death while helping to assemble the crane. Another worker sustained non-life threatening injuries. Immediately after, the DOB ordered that the crane be dismantled and removed from the worksite.

The second incident, which happened over the summer, occurred after the crane operator lifted a load 700 lbs. above the crane’s capacity. As the crane bent forward, it hit the side of a building and then fell to the ground. Luckily, no injuries or deaths were reported.

The DOB then ordered United to provide proof that it has removed its engineer of record, master rigger, lift director, and several others before being considered for future operation.

Why negligent crane managers and operators must be held accountable

Crane accidents are almost always preventable. We only continue to hear about them for two reasons:

• Proper safety measures aren’t put in place when assembling or operating cranes
• Crane operators don’t follow safety protocols or make errors in judgment

Those who survive crane accidents often sustain serious injuries such as:

• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Paralysis

If you were hurt in a crane accident, your injuries are likely severe enough to require immediate and lengthy medical treatment. What’s worse, you will most likely not be able to attend work while you recover from your injuries. In addition, costly procedures such as x-rays, MRIs, surgery, pain medication, and physical therapy can rack up your medical bills.

Luckily, you’re eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which cover your medical expenses and lost wages while you’re unable to work. Obtaining benefits, however, isn’t as easy as it sounds. The process is often complex and overwhelming for many injured workers. That’s why you should consult with the legal team at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP Attorneys At Law.

We possess a wealth of legal knowledge regarding the New York workers’ compensation system and we have real courtroom experience helping injured workers receive benefits. We represent workers in New York City and across the Empire State. Contact us online today to get started.