An early morning construction accident at the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge has seriously injured a worker. At approximately 2:34 a.m. on October 29, a 61-year-old project inspector from Queens was reportedly working in a closed construction area near the toll plaza. He is employed by STV, a firm providing inspection and consultant services during an ongoing bridge rehabilitation project.
Asphalt Truck Involved
According to the New York Police Department, a truck delivering asphalt was backing up. The inspector apparently saw the truck moving and attempted to get out of its way. However, at that moment, the truck driver reportedly turned into the path of the man on foot, the truck reportedly ran over him. The police spokesman did state that a safety spotter had been on duty at the site just prior to the accident.
The injured worker was transported to Staten Island University North Hospital with what were believed to be critical injuries, according to authorities. The construction project at the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge was suspended in the immediate aftermath of the construction accident.
OSHA Investigates
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has opened an investigation into construction accident. OSHA’s investigation will focus in part on possible violations of workplace safety standards, according to a spokesman for the federal agency.
A spokesperson for the MTA, which operates the bridge, stated that the deceased worker was employed by a contractor that it been hired by the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority (TBTA). The contractor was providing inspection and consultant services as the bridge rehabilitation projected continued.
Although the accident investigation is ongoing, New York workers’ compensation laws typically address workplace accidents that result in injury or loss of life. Sometimes, civil statutes regarding negligent conduct may come into play as well. To have a construction accident lawyerย evaluate your case, pleaseย contact us.ย An initial consultation is always without charge, and there is no obligation.