A terrifying jobsite underground explosion in Queens sent people fleeing for their lives as a massive gas leak caused an underground explosion that ended with a 40-foot wide portion of the abutting street collapsing into a sinkhole and a massive pipe bursting which sent thousands of gallons of high-pressure water spewing out of the hole. Investigators on the scene of this latest construction related underground explosion in New York City suspect that a leak in a Con Ed pipe could have led to a dangerous build-up of gas in an underground pocket simply waiting for a spark to set it ablaze.
The explosion occurred at a construction site located at the intersection of Northern boulevard and 114th Street January 4th. Shrapnel from the explosion punctured through automobiles parked along the street and a cloud of dust kicked up by the blast stopped traffic for some time.
An investigation into DOB records found that a stop work order was issued temporarily in response to complaints that work at the jobsite was creating cracks in the sidewalk. Work had not restarted at the time of the explosion leading some to suspect that the cracked pipe had been leaking for some time.
Thankfully, nobody was injured in the blast but there was massive property damage-which the contractors working on the site could be held liable for.
Indeed, in instances where construction work causes safety hazards (like crack water pipes and leaking gas line) the construction companies can be held responsible for financial losses associated with an explosion, ground collapse, or damage to surrounding buildings. In addition, that same company could be ordered to pay for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and property losses of any individual injured if there is a safety violation.
If you’ve been hurt in an explosion while working at a jobsite and innocently walking along the sidewalk or crossing a city street, contact an experienced underground explosion attorney in New York City to learn your rights. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel at 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 for your free consultation today.