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Elevated work platforms or “cherry pickers” appear on construction sites throughout New York, and these hydraulic aerial devices have many potential applications. Unfortunately, cherry pickers also present numerous hazards to workers in the Empire State. This was made clear after a tragic accident involving a father and son in New York. What are the unique hazards associated with cherry pickers, and how can workers seek compensation after being harmed by these devices?
Father Accidentally Kills Own Son in Tragic Construction Accident
On November 17, 2023, it was reported that a father had accidentally taken the life of his own son. The accident occurred at a Manhattan construction site, and it involved a cherry picker. According to local police, the father was driving the cherry picker in reverse while his son was attempting to clear a path. As the son directed traffic ahead of the cherry picker, the vehicle approached from behind. It was at this point that the younger worker went underneath the wheels and was crushed.
Police immediately assured the public that no foul play was suspected and that this was simply a construction accident. Authorities also highlighted the fact that cherry pickers have many blind spots and that workers should always stay 10-15 feet away from the machinery. Clearly, the younger worker allowed the cherry picker to get too close.
Dangers Associated With Cherry Pickers
Aside from blind spots, cherry pickers are also associated with a number of other hazards:
Weather: One of the most common issues related to cherry pickers is dangerous weather. High winds can cause the lift to sway or even tip over. Rain can make the ground slippery, causing additional concerns. Finally, lightning strikes are not unheard of due to the metallic nature and high elevation of cherry pickers.
Unsuitable Terrain: It is important for workers to choose suitable terrain when using cherry pickers. Uneven ground can easily cause the lift to fall over. Excessive slopes are also potential hazards.
Power Lines: Cherry pickers are often employed to conduct work on power lines. The threat of electrocution is obvious. In addition, workers may accidentally touch power lines when working on projects unrelated to electricity.
Roll Overs: Exceeding a cherry picker’s maximum load can easily cause it to tip over.
How Do I Get Compensation After a Cherry Picker Accident?
The obvious option is to file a workers’ compensation claim, although it might also be possible to file a personal injury claim. It is easier to file injury lawsuits for workplace accidents in New York due to something called the “Scaffold Law.” However, this may only apply to gravity-related incidents.
Where Can I Find an Experienced Injury Attorney in New York?
If you have suffered a construction-related injury, it may be worth getting in touch with an experienced personal injury attorney in New York. These legal professionals can guide you toward compensation in an efficient manner. A number of different sources may help you pay for medical expenses, missed wages, and other damages. These sources include both the workers’ compensation program and a potential injury tort. Book your consultation with the Glassman Law Group today to determine the most appropriate course of action.