Falling objects accidents in New York City can be devastating. Tall construction cranes typically are massive machines that lift heavy loads overhead. These loads, which are suspended by cables and carry straps, can themselves pose a threat to construction workers and pedestrians passing by the jobsite if the loads are not secured properly and somehow break free from the carry straps. The latest deadly crane accident in New York City happened in the middle of last month. A 54-year old construction worker was killed on Staten Island when part of the load being lifted by a crane slipped free and struck him.
The crane accident happened at the Staten Island Asphalt facility where Antonia Veloso, the victim, was employed. He was reportedly alert immediately after the accident but complaining of trouble breathing. He was taken to a nearby hospital but lapsed into cardiac arrest between the accident site and the ER. Doctors weren’t able to revive him.
OSHA investigators are investigating this Staten Island crane accident to see if safety precautions were ignored or if equipment malfunction played any part in the victim’s death.
Last year air conditioning equipment being hoisted by a crane at a jobsite broke free when one of the straps snapped. An investigation later revealed that when the load was rigged, there was a failure to put a safety barrier between the load and the strap, causing the sharp edge of the machinery to create a pressure point resulting in the tearing of the strap.
The victims surviving family members may have the right to seek financial compensation for the loss of their loved one from an at fault party. At a construction site, the property owner and general contractor for the project can be held absolutely liable for such accidents under the New York Labor Law.
If you’ve lost a loved one or if you’ve been injured yourself at a construction site accident, contact a falling objects accident in New York City attorney today