Throgs Neck Bridge Construction Worker Seen Waving From Water Before Search Called Off
A 35-year old construction worker fell from the Throgs Neck Bridge a few weeks ago and is presumed dead after landing in the East River. Authorities called off the search for him several days after the accident, presuming him to be dead.
It’s assumed the painter, a union contractor, was readjusting his safety harness when he fell. The cause of the accident is still being investigated.
According to the New York Post, witnesses saw the man waving from the water after he fell. “He was alive when he hit the water,” said one coworker. “He was treading water. We waved to him and he waved back to us.”
By the time emergency responders arrived at the scene, however, he was nowhere to be found. A sweater and hard hat were recovered from the water. Police, the Coast Guard, and firefighters all participated in the search.
A safety boat, which is supposed to be in place under the bridge while workers are on duty, was not in service. The boat could have meant the difference between life and death for the painter.
The man leaves behind a wife and three children.
All construction work is dangerous. But when you are working above ground, the risk of a fall is great, and the chances of that fall leaving you permanently or fatally injured are also quite high.
Safety measures are put in place by the companies you work for and the state to ensure that risk of injury is as minimal as possible, but accidents happen. Had the painter been securely fastened in, he would not have fallen. Had the safety boat been in place on that day, he may not have died.
When you are hurt on the job, whether due to safety violations or a simple oversight, the stakes are high. While most injuries are minor, there is always a chance that you could be permanently injured on the job. When that happens, you need someone on your side representing your best interests.
How Ginarte Attorneys Can Help
At the Ginarte Law Firm, we’ve represented numerous local construction workers who were injured while simply trying to earn a living. We’ve helped them get the treatment and the compensation they need to move on with their life.
From working with construction site experts to investigators, we are committed to getting our clients the best results possible. If you’ve been hurt on a construction site, whether from a fall or another accident, we may be able to help you, too.
Contact our attorneys today for a free consultation. Call 888-GINARTE.
