Construction Fatality on Roosevelt Avenue Bridge
Posted on November 4, 2022 in Firm News
A tragic accident occurred in Queens on Tuesday when a 34-year-old construction worker sustained fatal injuries after falling from the Roosevelt Avenue Bridge. According to The U.S. Sun, the worker was painting on the bridge when he fell through the support structure onto the Van Wyck Expressway.
The NYPD authorities onsite stated the worker sustained severe trauma to his head and body when a 2012 Nissan Altima struck him after the fall. The construction worker was transported to the hospital in critical condition before sadly succumbing to his injuries. Authorities reported that three occupants of the Nissan were also transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the construction structure failure that caused the worker to fall. Our condolences go out to the family and loved ones who are grieving this terrible loss.
Statistics on Construction Falls
Falls have consistently been the leading cause of construction fatality and injury for years. In 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ranked falls at the top of the Fatal Four and fall protection as the leading safety violation reported during onsite inspections on OSHA’s Top 10 Frequently Violated Standards.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that among 1,034 fatal construction injuries in 2020, 353 were the result of falls from elevation, and 9 were the result of falls from the same level.
Falls on the construction site can occur for several reasons, most of which are entirely preventable. OSHA lists the following as the most common cause of fatal construction falls:
- Unfinished/poorly built support structures
- Inadequate fall protection
- Lift malfunctions
- Tripping hazards on platforms and structures
- Damaged, defective, or unsecured ladders
Pazer, Epstein, Fein & Jaffe NYC Construction Accident Attorneys
At the law firm of Pazer, Epstein, Jaffe & Fein, we have been fighting for New York City workers and victims of construction accidents for over 60 years. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured on a construction worksite, contact one of our attorneys for a free consultation through our online form or call 212-227-1212.