By nature construction sites are dangerous places to work. Construction workers are at risk for such injuries as falls from scaffolding and heavy equipment accidents. Recently, however, several New York construction workers suffered serious injuries from a more uncommon risk, a malfunctioning freight elevator.
Carrying 24 construction workers, the elevator plunged at least three stories down to the basement. One electrician on the elevator recalled the terrifying event: "We held onto the walls and each other, we braced ourselves...We knew there was a bottom, but we didn't know how far it was."
Twenty-two of the construction workers were taken to the hospital after experiencing "whiplash-like injuries".
The freight elevator in the Flatiron district building was being used illegally as a passenger elevator. A spokesman for the Department of Buildings said the cause of the accident was a defective brake. A violation was issued to the building's owner for illegal use and failure to maintain the elevator.
Construction Site Accidents
Unfortunately, injuries on construction sites are not uncommon. In 2009, there were 816 construction workers fatalities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Thirty-four percent of those deaths were from falls while working on the job site.
Although construction sites must comply with strict safety regulations, unfortunately some fail to do so. Even when proper precautions are taken some accidents may still occur. Injured workers and their families may suffer serious health and financial consequences.
If you have been injured in a fall on a construction site, or some other type of construction accident, contact an experienced attorney. A knowledgeable attorney can evaluate your claim and work to help you receive compensation for the injuries you suffered.
