New York City Construction Accident Fatalities Increased in 2012
Workers in the New York City construction industry already know that their jobs are dangerous. Recently released figures indicate that construction workers’ jobs may be getting more dangerous. The number of fatal construction accidents in New York City rose from six in 2011 to 21 in 2012, according to a federal report. The increase marks the most construction accident fatalities in New York City since 2008.
Of the 21 deaths, eight workers died in building collapses and eight others suffered fatal injuries in falls, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration report. Construction equipment malfunctions and falling debris were responsible for another four construction worker deaths in 2012 with the final fatality caused by an unspecified hazard. Historically, falls account for the largest percentage of construction accident fatalities with an average of 35 percent each year. Falls are considered by OSHA to be among the “Fatal Four” causes of construction fatalities along with electrocutions, being struck by an object, and being caught in between objects.
Among New York’s five boroughs, Manhattan was the most dangerous work location with nine deaths, followed by Brooklyn and Queens with four fatalities each. The Bronx had three construction worker deaths in 2012 and Staten Island one fatality. The report categorized the fatalities into accidents that occurred on union and non-union worksites with 72 percent of the deaths occurring on non-union worksites.
One theory that may explain the jump in construction accident deaths focuses on the increased construction activity throughout New York after the recent recession. “The more activity you’ve got, the more problems you’re going to have,” said Henry Robbins, a real-estate expert with Yale Robbins Inc. told The New York Post. “It’s like the more miles on your car, the greater likelihood of an accident.” While the ongoing economic recovery is good news for those in the construction industry, employers must remain vigilant about safety on construction sites to ensure that the number of fatalities does not continue to climb.
If you have been injured in a New York construction accident you could be entitled to third party compensation in addition to workers’ compensation. Given the fact that numerous companies often work at the same site, there is a chance that someone other than your own employer may have contributed to your injuries.
Contact the New York/New Jersey accident attorneys at Ginarte Gonzalez & Winograd to find out what legal options you may have. With seven offices conveniently located in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area, we have an office near you. Contact the firm today by calling 888-446-2783 for your free consultation or fill out our online contact form.
