Contractors Charged in Foreman’s Death at Staten Island Construction Site
Two years ago, the foreman at a Staten Island construction site was killed in a workplace accident, and, as of early this month, two contractors have been charged with criminally negligent homicide and reckless endangerment, according to The New York Post. The foreman was crushed to death by a 60-foot-tall cinderblock wall that fell onto him as a result of 60 mph winds. After a long investigation, it was determined that the wall was not built to the proper specifications, being too tall, too wide, and without adequate reinforcement. It was this negligence that caused the New York workplace accident.
All contractors have a responsibility to maintain safe working conditions for their workforce as well as for the general public. If builders do not abide by safety codes and regulations, the risk of a New York construction accident injury or death increases. If a construction worker dies as a result of contractor or builder negligence, the worker’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim with the help of a New York wrongful death attorney and/or file with the Workers’ Compensation Board.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), private industry construction workers have three times the fatal job injury rate of all workers nationwide. In 2009, 816 construction workers died as the result of a fatal job site injury. Construction work, with its elevated heights, heavy building materials, and complicated machinery and tools, is already dangerous enough without adding contractor negligence to the mix. If you have lost a loved one in a fatal New York construction accident due to the negligence of another, the at-fault party can be held accountable.
The reputed New York wrongful death attorneys of Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro have the necessary knowledge and skills to help you with your wrongful death claim. We have years of experience filing claims with the state Workers’ Compensation Board and will be able to provide you with compassionate guidance every step of the way. Contact us for a free consultation at 1-212-222-4336.
