Working in construction is a rewarding career path for many men and women in New York. However, it can also be dangerous. Construction accidents can seriously injure or kill workers, even when they are taking every possible safety precaution. These accidents are more than just stories that show up on one’s news feed for an hour or so — they involve real people whose lives and loved ones are deeply affected.
A 32-year-old father was recently killed while working at a New York construction site. At the time of the accident he was operating a forklift, using it to lower a pallet containing construction materials. In what was described as a freak accident, the forklift suddenly lurched and threw the worker out of the cabin. The forklift then fell on top of him, resulting in his death.
His death not only cut his life short, but also left his two daughters — aged 13 and 9 — without a father. Loved ones also say that he was only planning to stay in the United States for another three years, at which point he planned to return to his home country of Ecuador. He had first arrived in this country in 2008.
In New York, loved ones of workers who have died in construction accidents can still utilize the workers’ compensation system. These families may qualify for temporary death benefits, which can provide essential financial support. Sometimes workers’ comp applications are denied the first time around, so whether applying for the first time or pursuing an appeal, it is usually helpful to seek guidance from an attorney who is knowledgeable in this process.