Good Samaritans Rushed to Aid Victims in Brooklyn Crane Accident: What Are Your Legal Rights?

When a construction crane collapsed in Brooklyn, it was the bravery of Good Samaritans that helped rescue two men trapped inside a van. The accident, which took place near a pharmacy, left one man with head and body pain and another with a serious leg injury.

What Happened?

The crane, which was mounted on a truck, crashed in a busy area, narrowly avoiding further devastation. Local business owner Carmen Velazquez and several others rushed to the scene to help the injured men. They pulled them from the van, provided chairs for support, and stayed with them until emergency services arrived. The victims, aged 35 and 43, suffered varying degrees of injuries, and the Department of Buildings (DOB) has since deployed a licensed master rigger and professional engineer to assess the scene and determine the safest way to remove the crane and truck.

Who Is Responsible for a Crane Accident?

Crane accidents in New York City are often the result of negligence, inadequate maintenance, or failure to follow safety protocols. Several parties may be liable, including:

• Construction Companies – If the crane was being used on an active job site, the construction company may be responsible for ensuring the equipment was properly maintained and operated safely.
• Equipment Manufacturers – If a defect in the crane contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws.
• Property Owners – If the accident was caused by unsafe conditions at the site, the property owner may share responsibility.
• Third-Party Contractors – If a third-party contractor was operating the crane or involved in its setup, they may also be held liable.

Legal Options for Victims of Crane Accidents

Victims of crane accidents have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Given the severity of crane-related injuries, securing full and fair compensation is crucial.

In cases where multiple parties may be responsible, an experienced crane accident lawyer can help investigate the cause of the accident, determine liability, and fight for maximum compensation. Additionally, if a victim was injured while working on the site, they may also have a workers’ compensation claim and, in some cases, a third-party lawsuit against negligent contractors or manufacturers.

Crane Accidents in NYC: A Growing Concern

Crane accidents are unfortunately not uncommon in New York City, where construction is constant, and safety violations have led to serious injuries and fatalities in the past. The DOB’s involvement in this Brooklyn incident highlights the importance of strict oversight in ensuring the safety of workers and pedestrians alike.

If you or a loved one was injured in a crane accident, it is critical to seek legal representation from a top-rated NYC crane accident lawyer who understands the complexities of these cases.

At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, we have spent more than 100 years representing victims of catastrophic construction accidents, securing some of the highest verdicts and settlements in New York. If you need legal guidance, contact us at 212-943-1090 for a free consultation.