The construction industry is a dangerous one with many hazards to constantly watch out for. Not only do Manhattan construction workers often operate complex machinery, they work on a daily basis with tools, equipment and materials that weigh thousands of pounds. One wrong move or the misuse of equipment can either result in life-threatening injuries or take someone’s life in a tragic construction site accident.
According to reports, one construction worker died and another sustained a severe crush injury while working on a parking garage at a county mall. Investigators believe that workers failed to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when they overextended the legs of a jack that was being used to remove a faulty safety tower.
Reports indicate that a section of the garage fell down; the jack, which wasn’t adequately braced as it was being extended, fell with it. The workers were crushed under a concrete slab, according to emergency service personnel. It is unknown whether or not the two men were actively working with the jack and the other components involved, or if they were at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Both the injured man and the family of the deceased might want to see if they have any legal rights following the accident. While the extent of injuries sustained is unknown, severe accidents often cause life-long disabilities and so the injured worker may be able to file a personal injury suit and seek compensation. Furthermore, the family of the killed worker should speak with a lawyer about filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
Source: ABC7, “Westfield Montgomery Mall construction accident due to malfunctioning jack,” Sep. 24, 2013