Staff Writer - Aronova & Associates

10 Common Long Term Workplace Illnesses

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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10 Common Long-Term Workplace Illnesses

When people think of workers being hurt on the job, they often think of sudden accidents in which a worker is injured or killed.

Unfortunately, these aren’t the only ways that workers in New York State can be hurt on the job. Some workplace conditions can cause or contribute to long-term illnesses. These illnesses can develop gradually and become worse progressively. Many of them can ultimately be fatal.

Common Occupational Diseases

In New York, an occupational disease is any medical condition that is disabling and is caused by exposure to workplace irritants or stems from the nature of the work.

Here are 10 of the most common long-term workplace illnesses:

Cancer from asbestos exposure. Construction workers, plumbers, electricians, or other workers exposed to asbestos in buildings — which has been banned for decades — can develop cancer as a result. Several types of cancer have been traced to asbestos, including mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of internal organs that is rare and often fatal.
Silicosis. Silicosis is an occupational lung disease caused by breathing crystalline silica dust.
Hearing and vision loss. Workers who were not given appropriate safety equipment and worked in blasting, tunnel construction, or demolition can develop both vision and hearing loss.
Carpal tunnel syndrome. Office workers whose hands and arms must be in certain positions and who are not provided adequate keyboard, computer, furniture or other equipment can develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
Exposure to toxic fumes. The inhalation of paint and welding fumes can affect health. Multiple workers can be exposure to paint and welding fumes.
Back injuries. Construction and warehouse workers can develop back injuries if they are not taught the proper method of lifting loads or are overtaxed.
Heart attack and stroke. Stress can cause heart attack, stroke, and other heart disease-related illnesses.
Repetitive stress injuries. Workers on assembly lines or other functions where they repeat movements can suffer repetitive stress injuries.
Sick building syndrome. When 20% or more of the workers in a building becomes ill, the building can be classified as a “sick building,” and their illness “sick building syndrome.” The key is that the symptoms abate once the workers are not in the building. The symptoms can be respiratory, such as difficulty breathing or sinus problems, itching and burning eyes, fatigue, dizziness, or even cancer. The illness may come from the mold or other unhealthy conditions in the building.
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). This is a disease of the central nervous system that may develop after an accident.

The symptoms of long-term workplace illnesses often don’t become noticeable for many years on the job. As a result, both employers and insurance companies often argue that illness is not a result of workplace conditions.

All the more reason to have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side.

Aronova & Associates: Workers Compensation Lawyers Long Island Trusts

Aronova & Associates are workers compensation lawyers Long Island relies on for aggressive and knowledgeable representation. If you or a loved one have an illness caused by the workplace, we will fight for your right to maximum compensation. If the illness caused your loved one to die, we can file a wrongful death case.

Call us today at (516) 640-3900 for a consultation about your case. The initial consultation is always free.

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Aronova & Associates is a firm for all New Yorkers. Our services are available in multiple languages and tailored to the needs of every client. The first step in providing you with the help you need is a free consultation to discuss your case. When you’re ready to talk, we’re ready to get to work for you.

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Top 5 Safety Tips for Construction Workers

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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Top 5 Safety Tips for Construction Workers

Construction workers build the country—literally—but they also put life and limb on the line. It’s no secret that this industry has one of the highest rates of fatal accidents and serious injuries, and it certainly doesn’t help that not all construction companies are scrupulous in following safety requirements.

Because of the serious risks involved, construction workers are urged to take matters into their own hands by carefully following safety tips.

#1 Stay focused and aware

It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the most important safety steps you can take doesn’t have anything to do with Job site safety. Fatigued construction workers are much more likely to become injured employees, and so your first safety tip is simply to get enough sleep each night. Getting enough quality sleep will help you stay focused on your work and aware of what’s going on around you, and less likely to have an accident.

#2 Keep your work area clear

Next to you, you should only have the tools and materials you need for the task at hand and nothing more. It’s easy to trip over tools, especially when you’re focused on what you’re doing. Keeping your work area tidy is particularly important when you’re working at height. Many construction workers in New York suffer serious and potentially fatal injuries because of accidents that occur on scaffolding.

#3 Wear personal protective equipment

Employers have a duty to ensure that every construction worker is properly equipped with personal protective equipment, and that they know how to use it and when to wear it. But reality doesn’t always align with safety guidelines. If your employer isn’t providing you with the PPE you need, you shouldn’t hesitate to speak up and request it. If you need to purchase it yourself, it may be tax-deductible. Having appropriate PPE is only half the battle. When you’re in a rush to get a job done by the deadline, it might be tempting to skip going back down the scaffolding to grab protective eye goggles or a dust mask. Remind yourself that your health is more important than a deadline.

#4 Check your tools

Even top-of-the-line tools are prone to damage. Don’t assume that, just because your nail gun or compound miter saw worked fine last time, that it automatically will the next time too. Check the electrical cord for signs of fraying or other damage (and make sure it’s not anywhere near water!), and examine the rest of it for potential problems. Don’t use tools that you suspect might be unsafe.

#5 Become buddies with your doctor

It’s considered standard practice for construction workers to try to tough out an injury or illness. But continuing to work after you’ve torn a rotator cuff or inflamed a bursa sac will definitely make the problem worse. Find a primary care physician you feel comfortable with, and get little issues checked out before they turn into potentially disabling conditions.

New York construction injury attorneys

Construction workers who suffer serious injuries on the job site need strong legal advocates on their side. Aronova & Associates invites you to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation with one of our construction accident lawyers in New York.

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Social Security Disability Claim Denied Here Are 5 Possible Reasons Why

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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Social Security Disability Claim Denied? Here Are 5 Possible Reasons Why

If you have a disability that prevents you from working, the U.S. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program can be a source of economic support. SSDI is funded through payroll taxes, and people who are disabled are eligible provided they have enough “employment credits” in their previous employment history.

SSDI beneficiaries have to be 18 years old or older. The children and spouse of someone who is disabled and unable to work may be eligible to receive “auxiliary” benefits, which are partial.

Seventy Percent of SSDI Claims Are Denied

A whopping 70% of SSDI claims are denied. It is very important not to give up if you are denied! You can apply again with a much better chance of success. If your claim has been denied, contact Aronova & Associates. We can help you through the process, making sure you and your loved ones receive the benefits you rightly deserve.

If you’ve been asking “why was I denied Social Security disability payments?”, read on. Here are 5 reasons claims are commonly denied.

SSDI Denial Reason 1: Incomplete Paperwork

A surprising number of claims are denied because the paperwork is incomplete. Applying for SSDI can be lengthy and complicated, and can be somewhat confusing.

A lawyer from Aronova & Associations can review your paperwork and help you complete the process thoroughly.

SSDI Denial Reason 2: Insufficient Medical Evidence

To be approved for SSDI, you need to present medical evidence that your condition makes you unable to work. A doctor needs to examine you and document whether or not your condition renders you unable to work.

It’s very important to note that, even if you have seen a physician frequently for the condition, your claim may still be denied if the physician hasn’t specifically documented your disability vis-à-vis work, in writing.

You shouldn’t assume either that your doctor or the Social Security office will do this automatically. You need to discuss your ability to return to work with your doctor, and request that your physician document your condition for SSDI.

If you have doctor’s notes regarding time off work, excusing you from work, or advising you to follow a modified schedule, include them with your application. Be sure to keep copies.

Disability Denial Reason 3: Failure to Follow Treatment

When people have a debilitating injury or condition, doctors often prescribe a course of treatment. This could be medication, physical therapy, or an exercise regimen. If you have been prescribed a course of treatment but haven’t followed it, your SSDI is very likely to be denied.

Why? Because the examiner is actually not able to tell if you are unable to work without knowing how the injury responds to treatment.

If there is a specific reason you have not followed your doctor’s treatment, you can address it during the appeal process. It’s wise to have an attorney representing you if that is the case.

Disability Denial Reason 4: Your Income Is Too High

Sometimes people who are disabled and unable to work at their previous occupations can still work and earn a certain amount. The Social Security Administration (SSA) terms this type of work “substantial gainful activity,” and defines it as:

Work that involves significant and productive duties, and
Work in which people earn more than the allowed monthly income limit.

If people with disabilities have substantial gainful activity, the SSA may feel they can work, and thus deny their SSDI claim.

The substantial gainful activity figure usually changes each year. For 2018, it is $1,180 per month. It you are legally blind, it is $1,970 per month.

SSDI Denial Reason 5: Previous Denial

Yes, unbelievably, it is possible to be denied just because you were denied before.

People whose SSDI applications have been denied may try to file a new claim. It may seem like this is a smarter move than going through the appeal process.

However, it is better to go through the appeal process. A reviewer who sees a previous denial may deny a new claim.

NY Social Security Disability Lawyer

An SSDI denial when you are unable to work can be bewildering and frightening. Don’t face it alone. The Social Security disability insurance lawyers at Aronova & Associates have experience with SSDI clients in New York City and Long Island.

Don’t give up! A skilled NY social security disability lawyer at Aronova & Associates can assist you at any step of the process, whether you used a lawyer initially or not.

We will help you appeal and execute your claim. Call us today at (516) 640-3900.

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5 Jobs That Are More Dangerous Than You Think

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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5 Jobs That Are More Dangerous Than You Think

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016 saw 5,190 fatal work injuries in the United States — a 7-percent uptick from the occupational fatalities reported in 2015. Loggers, commercial fishery workers, aircraft pilots and those working in the construction industry had the highest injury and fatality rates. Some lines of work are clearly more hazardous than others. It’s no surprise that jobs involving heavy machinery, power tools, challenging terrain and unstable structures rank high for workplace injuries and deaths, but some of the most dangerous jobs in America often go unrecognized.

Here are five jobs that are surprisingly risky and produce more fatalities than you’d expect.

#1: Outdoor Recreation Workers

Hiking and whitewater rafting guides, snowboard instructors and other employees who are exposed to extreme weather and environmental conditions are at great risk for injury and death. Snake bites, hypothermia, heat stroke, falls and drownings claim the lives of dozens each year.

#2: Landscapers

Mowing lawns and trimming shrubs may not seem exceedingly dangerous, but workplace injury rates in this field tell a different story. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, more than 130 grounds maintenance workers died in 2008. Many of the fatal injuries were related to heavy and sharp power tools used by the workers.

#3: Garbage Collectors

Being a trash or recycling collector may not be the most glamorous profession, and it isn’t the safest. The handling of waste can pose many health hazards over the long-term. In 2016, 31 trash collectors lost their lives to occupational factors, and the industry has the fifth highest fatal injury death rate, following roofers and airline pilots.

#4: Cashiers

Believe it or not, cashiers are rated the 20th most dangerous job in terms of illnesses and non-fatal injuries requiring time off of work. Cashiers are constantly exposed to the public and are more prone to colds and flus. Other health concerns include back pain, swollen feet and carpal tunnel syndrome. Whether working in a gas station, restaurant or bank, the biggest safety concern facing cashiers is a robbery turned homicide.

#5: Taxi Drivers

You might think that traffic accidents were the biggest concern for cab drivers. In fact, taxi drivers and chauffeurs are more likely to die from violent crime than they are from a crash. While driving unruly passengers or in dangerous neighborhoods, they are often in harm’s way. The fatality rate for taxi drivers is 18 deaths per 100,000 workers, making this a surprisingly risky job.

Were you injured on the job?

If you were hurt on the job, it’s important to protect your legal rights. The law firm of Aronova & Associates can ensure you get the worker’s compensation benefits to which you’re entitled under the law. Our talented legal team has over a decade’s experience working with the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board and knows how to maximize the value of your claim.

Set up a free consultation with a skilled job injury lawyer New York trusts, by calling our Manhattan office at 516-640-3900.

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4 Causes of Scaffold Injuries on Construction Sites

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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4 Causes of Scaffold Injuries on Construction Sites

At some point during their work history, almost two thirds of the nation’s 2.3 million construction workers will perform tasks on or near a scaffold. According to Department of Labor statistics, more than 4500 construction workers will suffer scaffold-related injuries annually, and those injuries will lead to roughly sixty fatalities every year.

The NYC & Long Island construction injury lawyers at Aronova & Associates hope that construction workers can reduce their risk of injury from scaffold accidents by understanding the common causes of those accidents. If, however, a scaffold accident does lead to an injury or fatality in New York City or on Long Island, our attorneys will work tirelessly to recover damages for construction workers injured due to an employer’s or someone else’s negligence.

Through our many years of experience in representing workers that have been hurt on scaffolds at construction sites, we see the same four common causes of those injuries.

Scaffolds that are Erected Improperly

A scaffold with improperly-secured planking, loose guard rails, or worn connection hardware is prone to failure, leaving workers exposed to injuries from falls. Scaffolds should always be erected, inspected, and tested by qualified technicians before construction workers use them. A job site manager that is anxious to keep a construction project on schedule might be tempted to rush these tasks, in which case construction workers might be forced to assume greater safety risks when working on those scaffolds.

Objects that Fall from Scaffolds

Tools, construction equipment, and other materials should always be fully secured when they are used on elevated scaffolds. A heavy object that is dropped from even a short elevation can gain enough momentum during a fall to cause serious injuries if that object strikes a construction worker who is at ground level. Construction companies that fail to provide adequate retaining straps and other mechanisms may be found to be negligent if that failure is a proximate cause of a dropped object that hits and injures another construction worker.

Electric Shocks from Contacts with Power Lines

Metal scaffolding conducts electricity. Construction sites might not always have an option of erecting scaffolding far away from power lines, but if that risk is present, managers need to take extra precautions to shield scaffolding from accidental contact with those lines. Electrocution risks for workers on those scaffolds will be significantly greater if the metal scaffolding creates a grounding path for an electrical arc.

Inadequate Worker Training in Scaffold Usage

Courtroom interpretations of New York Labor Law Section 240 (commonly called the ”Scaffold Law”) prevent a construction company from using a contributory negligence defense against claims for compensation under that Section. This does not suggest, however, that construction workers can disregard their own safety when they work on or near scaffolds. More appropriately, construction companies should offer regular training sessions for their employees in the proper way to perform construction job tasks on scaffolds, including the best ways to secure safety harnesses and to climb onto and off of scaffolds. Construction workers that do not receive adequate training will increase their own risks as well as the risks of their co-workers.

Aronova & Associates: Your New York Construction Scaffolding Accident Lawyers

The lawyers at Aronova & Associates regularly represent construction workers injured on scaffolds in Manhattan and throughout the five boroughs, as well as Nassau County and throughout Log Island. In addition to removing the contributory negligence defense, New York’s Scaffold Law also allows injured workers to sue for pain and suffering, and other remedies not normally found in workers’ compensation claims. We use every tool available in our and the State’s legal toolkit to recover the largest damages awards that may be available for our construction worker clients.

Please call Aronova & Associates as soon as possible after you have suffered a construction site scaffold injury to speak with one of our experienced attorneys, who will guide you through the process of how we can help you recover a complete damages award to compensate for your injuries.

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10 Reasons Workers Comp Claims Are Denied

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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10 Reasons Workers Comp Claims Are Denied

When you fall off a scaffold at a building site or develop a chronic illness because of your job, workers’ compensation benefits are designed to cover your medical expenses and lost income. In New York, this no-fault coverage provides wage replacement benefits and medical care for work-related ailments and injuries. After getting sick from your job or suffering an occupational injury, it can be incredibly disheartening to have your worker’s compensation claim denied.

Even though workers’ compensation is based on a no-fault system, claims can be denied for numerous reasons. There are deadlines and rules that must be followed, and other pitfalls that can mire your chances of getting paid.

Like anyone who is hurt on the job, you are counting on those benefits to help make ends meet. Let’s take a look at why insurers commonly dispute worker’s comp claims, and always keep in mind that you still have the opportunity to appeal your claim.

#1 You did not notify your employer in time

According to The New York State Worker’s Compensation Board, all employees who are injured on the job must notify their employer in writing about the incident within 30 days.

#2 Your work-related injury stems from a pre-existing condition

Insurers may reject the claim if they believe that you had a pre-existing condition or injury before starting your work and that workplace duties did not exacerbate the problem.

#3 You did not seek medical treatment

In order to receive worker’s comp benefits, your injury must have been treated and documented by a healthcare professional. Without these medical report, there is no evidence to support the nature or extent of your injuries.

#4 You did not get treatment from an approved doctor

All employees are presented with a list of approved medical providers from whom they can seek treatment. If you go outside of this network, your claim can be rejected.

#5 You were under the influence of drugs/alcohol at the time

If a drug test reveals that you were under the influence of any illicit substance at the time of the injury, the insurers will fight hard to deny the claim.

#6 You were not working at the time of the injury

To qualify for workers’ comp benefits, the injury must have happened while you were performing your normal work duties, not while you were on a lunch break.

#7 You knowingly failed to use safety equipment

Benefits are not provided to workers who are injured because they failed to use safety equipment or devices that were mandated and provided.

#8 Your injury is not covered by workers’ comp

Workers’ comp covers the majority of on-the-job injuries and illnesses, but there are some exceptions. The most notable are those injuries which are attributed to horseplay, criminal activity or violation of company policies on proper conduct.

#9 There were no witnesses or camera footage

Your employer will likely dispute your claim if there were no eyewitnesses to corroborate your allegations, or if the accident wasn’t caught on surveillance footage.

#10 Your medical records are insufficient

The medical records submitted must contain detailed information about the history and circumstances of your injury, and every body part that was affected.

Seeking legal advice in New York

One of your biggest rights as an injured worker in New York is the right to appeal a denied worker’s compensation claim. Ensure your chances of success by enlisting a Long Island workers comp lawyer who can fight for the benefits you deserve.

To discuss your case free of charge, call Aronova & Associates at (516) 640-3900.

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Workers Compensation Claim Denied on Long Island You Can Appeal

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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Workers’ Compensation Claim Denied on Long Island? You Can Appeal!

If you are injured on the job in New York State, you are likely covered by workers’ compensation law. This law applies whether you work full time or part time. Workers’ compensation pays for medical treatment for injuries, physical therapy, and will pay for time off from work if you need more than 7 days off of work because of your injuries.

WAS YOUR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CLAIM DENIED ON LONG ISLAND? THIS IS NOT THE END OF THE STORY — YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO APPEAL!

Do not accept a denial notification without seeking further action. At Aronova & Associates, we have the experience and skill to make sure you get the maximum compensation that you are rightfully owed under the law. Call us today to take the first steps toward an appeal of your denied worker’s comp claim on Long Island.

Worker’s Compensation Claim Denied on Long Island: What To Do Next

Workers’ compensation law is complicated and claim denials are common. It’s prudent to consult a Long Island workers’ comp lawyer as soon as possible if your claim has been denied. An attorney at Aronova & Associates can determine why the claim was denied and help devise the best strategy to overturn the denial on appeal. Remember, appeals must be filed in writing within 30 days after the decision, so contact us right away!

Worker’s comp claim appeal process:

You will receive an official notification if your workers’ compensation claim is denied. Review it carefully to find out the reasons and how to appeal the claim.
It may be wise to consult an attorney experienced in workers’ compensation appeals.
After the appeal is decided, if you are denied, it may be appealed again, to the full New York Workers’ Compensation Board of Commissioners.
If your appeal to the full Board is denied, it can be appealed to the Appellate Division, Third Department, Supreme Court of the State of New York. This must be done within 30 days of the previous denial.

Why Claims Are Denied

To receive workers’ compensation, you must file a claim and supporting paperwork. The claim is reviewed by the Workers’ Compensation Board. The amount of benefits an injured worker receives depends on what their wages normally are, whether or not you are disabled, and, if you are disabled, the extent of the disability.

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, it means you will not receive benefits.

Unfortunately, both employers and insurance companies have an interest in keeping workers’ comp claims as low as possible. An attorney can help you fight for your rights to fair and just compensation for your injury.

Some common reasons for denial of a workers’ comp claim on Long Island are:

Incomplete paperwork
No witnesses to the incident that caused the injury
The injured party did not report it immediately
There is a conflict between the accident report and the medical records
The injured party didn’t pass a drug test
The claim was filed after your employment was terminated
Refusal to make a recorded statement
Refusal to sign medical authorization forms

Speak with an Experienced NY Workers’ Comp Lawyer on Long Island

At Aronova & Associates, we pride ourselves on fighting for the rights of New Yorkers hurt on the job. Partner with workers compensation lawyers Long Island trusts and call us today for a free and confidential consultation!

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5 Qualities That Make a Great Expert Witness

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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5 Qualities That Make a Great Expert Witness

In some cases, it is a good idea to have an expert witness testify in order to help explain an idea to the jury. But in many cases, expert witness testimony is an absolute necessity; there are situations where a decision in the plaintiff’s favor would not be valid unless key issues were established by the testimony of an expert witness. Given the importance of experts, here are few tips on what to look for in an expert witness.

What to look for in an expert witness

Credentials in an area that will be helpful for the jury. An expert needs to have specialized experience, skill, or training in an area that is outside the scope of knowledge of the average juror. But, importantly, the testimony must assist the trier of fact so it should not simply restate arguments the attorneys will be making in closing arguments.
Composure under pressure. Opposing counsel will try to undermine the expert’s authority and/or conclusions in deposition and at trial. A great witness will stay calm in these situations and even turn the attacks into opportunities to further explain their methodology and conclusions.
Appearance of independence. The best expert witnesses still practice in the field of their expertise. They also offer testimony on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants. Experts who spend most of their time consulting as witnesses and only testify for either plaintiffs or defendants often lack credibility in the eyes of jurors.
Presents well in front of a jury. Jurors pick up on seemingly minor details and it can influence their opinions of those testifying. It might be a dishevelled tie, a nervously tapping finger, or some other seemingly trivial thing, but jurors often form negative opinions based on these signs.
Compatibility as part of the team. An expert witness needs to be able to communicate effectively with the client’s attorney. Working style and personality are both factors that affect how compatible the expert is with the team and, as a result, how prepared they will be.

Working with an expert witness in NY personal injury cases

Retaining an effective expert witness is an exercise in balance and judgment. An experienced personal injury lawyer draws on a bank of professional knowledge in selecting the ideal witness. For example, an expert who has vast academic experience, like a professor, may not have much experience testifying and handling attacks from opposing counsel. An expert who testifies often may appear to be a “hired gun” who parrots whatever opinion benefits the client.

Aronova & Associates know what it takes to prove a personal injury claim. For 10 years, we have fought for the rights of personal injury victims and we have the resources and knowledge to enlist the best expert witnesses for the job. We work with a team of experts in our Garden City and Manhattan offices to make sure they are prepared to help put on your best case.

Call today to speak with a New York personal injury lawyer at Aronova & Associates.

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How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in New York

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in New York?

When you have been harmed by the actions of another person or other entity, such as a business’s products, you can file a personal injury lawsuit. The suit can ensure that you get compensation for your injuries, such as reimbursement for doctor and hospital bills, lost wages if the injury caused you to lose time off work, and pain and suffering.

Most Personal Injury Cases Need to Be Filed Within 3 Years

All lawsuits need to be filed within a specific time frame, or a court will refuse to hear it. This is called the statute of limitations.

For most personal injuries, the lawsuit must be filed within 3 years of the date of injury or the date the injury first became apparent. In other words, if you were injured on March 21, 2018, you have until March 21, 2021 to file a lawsuit against the party who caused the injury.

These time limits apply to many areas of personal injury law, including cases involving vehicle accidents, slip and fall accidents, and product liability.

Some Exceptions

That said, there are some exceptions to the statute of limitations. Because there are exceptions, it is prudent to consult an attorney about your case to make sure that it is filed in time.

Medical malpractice, for example, can cause personal injury. But medical malpractice suits under New York State law need to be filed by 2 years and 6 months from the date of injury or the end of continuous treatment by the person or party the plaintiff intends to bring a suit against.

Personal injury caused by the actions of a government or city agency might require plaintiffs to file a claim within a much shorter time frame. In New York City, for example, a claim against a city agency must be filed within 90 days of the action that caused the injury.

Wrongful death cases must be filed within two years. A wrongful death claim is brought by a plaintiff on behalf of a deceased loved one if the death was due to another party’s negligence.

Do You Still Have Time to File? Ask an Experienced NY Personal Injury Attorney

Because the statute of limitations may vary, it is wise to get the help of an experienced personal injury attorney in NY if you or a loved one has been hurt due to the actions of another party.

Aronova & Associates provide expert legal representation to New York State residents who have a personal injury case. We work aggressively so that justice is served.

Call us today at (516) 640-3900 for a free consultation about your personal injury.

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Crane Accidents Happen

Posted on April 10, 2023April 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

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How Crane Accidents Happen

Crane accidents were responsible for 22 deaths last year, reports the Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA). Electricians, construction workers, brazers and welders are the occupations at highest risk for serious injury and fatality.

Despite improved safety regulations and protocols for crane operation in various industries, these accidents occur with alarming frequency in areas where construction is booming. Tower cranes, overhead cranes, mobile cranes and rail-mounted cranes pose serious hazards for not only their operators, but those working around them.

According to recent OSHA crane accident analysis, some of the most common causes include:

Boom collapses
Dropped cargo
Overturned cranes
Equipment malfunction or failure
Contact with active power lines resulting in electrocution
Falls
Caught in between accidents
Struck-by crane loads/booms or jibs
Crushing by counter weight

How do crane accidents happen?

The following crane accident reports are taken directly from published OSHA data. All of these fatal incidents took place on private or public construction sites. The reports provide insight into the mechanics of crane accidents on building sites, and the great dangers faced by workers and crane operators.

A crane operator was lifting a steel beam when it broke loose and tumbled four stories, crushing the operator’s compartment. The employee suffered fatal injuries from the impact of the steel beam.
An employee was unloading materials from a delivery truck using a mobile crane. The crane operator was guiding a load when the crane contacted an energized overhead power line. The employee was electrocuted and died.
An employee was removing old network protectors from an electrical system vault. He was standing at the ground-level opening of the vault and signaled a boom truck operator to pick up a grate he had attached to the crane’s hook. The grate gave way as the crane began to pick up a second piece of grating, causing the employee to fall 23 feet. He suffered multiple head, facial and extremity fractures in addition to internal injuries.
An employee was replacing filters on a step-down transformer using a mobile crane. The employee came into contact with 4,160 volts and was killed.
An employee was helping a co-worker set up a hook tender. The stump that was being used as an anchor point flew up, releasing the tension on the skyline. The employee was instantly killed when he was struck by the concrete stump and the skyline.
An employee was moving a gravel shaker table with a Link Belt mobile crane. The crane tipped over, crushing the crane cab and the employee. The employee sustained multiple internal injuries and died.

Most New Yorkers remember the TriBeca crane collapse in 2016 that killed one passerby and severely injured two others. High winds were initially blamed for the incident, that sent the 600-foot crane boom crashing down in lower Manhattan, but further investigations revealed that the crane operator made serious mistakes. Authorities determined that in his rush to lower the boom quickly, the operator ignored procedures regarding inclement weather.

Unfortunately, fines for unsafe construction crane operation do little to hold companies into account. In the event of catastrophic injury or death, liability may rest with the construction company, contractors, sub-contractors or the equipment manufacturer.

Construction accident lawyers serving New York

Aronova & Associates has in-depth experience litigating construction accident and workplace injury claims in New York. When OSHA crane safety guidelines are violated, defective equipment fails or procedures are ignored, crane accident victims and their loved ones may be entitled to compensation. We are dedicated to achieving the legal recovery your family needs and deserves.

Speak with a results-driven construction accident lawyer at our firm to explore your legal rights. Call (516) 640-3900 to schedule your free case review.

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