Markhoff & Mittman, P.C. : 2019

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

One Amtrak Employee Killed And Two Others Injured In New York

An investigation is underway after an Amtrak employee was killed and two others injured in the Van Nest section of The Bronx.

Transformer Explosion Kills Amtrak Worker

The explosion, which took place at around 11 a.m., was at a Con Edison station. Three employees were working on the transformer when the blast occurred. According to investigators, the employees were performing fuse work. The power to the transformer should have been shut off - but it wasn't.

A witness who was driving on the Unionport Bridge, a spot that overlooks the train tracks and substation, said that she saw a huge fireball. She called 911.

An investigation to determine why the power wasn't turned off is ongoing. The two surviving employees have been treated for their injuries.

Explosion Can Kill Or Disable A Worker

Explosions in the workplace happen was surprising regularity and frequently cause the death of a worker. Those that do survive are often diagnosed with:

severe burns
injuries that result in amputation
lacerations
impalement
damage to internal organs
traumatic brain injury
eye injuries

Each of these injuries can end a career and are typically very expensive to treat. Workers' compensation should pay for the care that is needed, however, denials are common.

The workers' comp lawyers at The Disability Guys help injured employees fight for the compensation that they need. Let our experienced legal team handle the case so that you and your loved ones can focus on what is most important - healing.

White Plains
Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.
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White Plains, NY 10605
914-946-1452

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Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.
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Brooklyn, NY 11201
718-509-3599

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Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.
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East Meadow, NY 11554
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1825 Park Ave #901
New York, NY 10035
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Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Four Construction Workers Injured In NY Scaffolding Collapse

Four construction workers were sent to the hospital, one with serious injuries, after scaffolding collapsed at a tower in Hudson Yards.

Construction Workers Fall From 18th Floor

According to first responders, two of the involved construction workers fell when the scaffolding they were standing on collapsed. That scaffolding was on the 18th floor. By some miracle, the collapse stopped on the 17th floor.

It hasn’t been noted how the other two workers were injured, but it’s likely that they were hit by falling debris or even their falling coworkers.

Three sustained minor injuries, however, the fourth was listed in serious condition. He is thankfully expected to survive.

Construction Workers Who Survive Accidents Often Have Large Medical Bills

Even with the best health insurance offered in the country, construction workers typically have huge out of pocket expenses after being hurt on the job. If the injuries are serious enough, they are forced to pay for these expenses without a regular income because they won’t be able to return to work.

This is exactly why the law requires workers’ compensation coverage for employees. But getting a claim approved isn’t an easy process.

Employers can dispute claims and insurance companies look for ways to deny coverage or reduce the amount paid out. Without legal help, compensation may never be obtained.

A workers’ comp lawyer, like those at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C., can help ensure that all the necessary paperwork is filled out correctly, can speak with the insurance company on a client’s behalf, and can fight a denial in court. Our legal team has been helping injured workers since 1933 and we are proud to have helped thousands recover the compensation they earned through hard work.

If you or a loved one have questions about your workers’ compensation claim, contact our law offices at one of our convenient locations. Time may be of the essence so call now.

Thursday, October 3, 2019

Explosion In Bronx Junkyard Kills One And Injures Another

More than 100 firefighters responded to a call about a blaze at a junkyard on Boston Road in the Bronx after an explosion caused the fire.

Officials Investigate Cause Of Bronx Junkyard Explosion

According to a police report, two workers were present when the explosion happened at around 3:10 p.m. and the force of the blast threw them both off their feet. When emergency officials arrived, they found one worker seriously injured. Today, he is in a medically induced coma fighting for his life.

They were unable to locate the second worker for a significant amount of time and initially declared him missing. Hours after the explosion his body was found.

There has been no word about what caused the explosion or what the impact the burning plastic and metal will have on the environment.

Workers' Compensation Should Cover The Injured Workers' Medical Expenses

Treatment for injuries were severe enough to force doctors to put the worker in a medically induced coma will be very costly. Thankfully, workers' compensation should cover all of these expenses.

That being said, it's disturbing how many workers' compensation claims are dismissed outright for simple mistakes. This is why so many injured workers and their loved ones seek the help of an experienced workers' compensation attorney.

An attorney can make sure that all paperwork is correctly filled out and filed in a timely manner. They can speak with the insurance company and find the evidence that is needed for the claim.

If a denial has been issued, an attorney can fight to have the denial overturned.

If you or a loved one are seeking a consultation with a workers' comp attorney, contact one of The Disability Guy's local law firms today:

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

Building Collapses In The Bronx Killing One & Injuring Several Others

The family members of one construction worker are mourning after a partial building collapse claimed his life and injured several others in the Bronx.

Firefighters Called To Dig Construction Workers Out Of Rubble

Just before noon on August 27th, 2019, firefighters were dispatched to a construction site where callers to 911 had reported that a building had collapsed. When they arrived, they discovered that the third floor had collapsed, debris trapping workers on the second floor. While immediate attempts were made to reach workers caught in the rubble, the responding units had to place support beams under the first floor ceiling so that the remaining structure did not collapse.

By the time the trapped workers were reached, one man had died from his injuries. Several others sustained serious injuries.

Investigators have issued a stop work order and are working hard to determine what caused the collapse. The loved ones of the worker who was killed are hoping that answers come quickly and that, if someone failed to protect the construction crew, they are held accountable.

Thousands Of Workers’ Comp Claims And Construction Accident Lawsuits Are Filed Yearly

Generally speaking, construction accidents don’t just “happen”. These accidents occur because a person or group failed to take the necessary steps to ensure that the construction workers on the job are kept safe in a dangerous environment.

Nothing can take away the incredible pain and suffering experienced by an injured construction worker and their loved ones but there are certain claims that can help to alleviate any financial burdens.

A workers’ compensation claim can help an injured worker by paying for medical bills and a fraction of lost wages. These claims aren’t easy to obtain approval for, however, and often legal assistance is needed to ensure that the insurance companies make the appropriate payout.

In addition to a workers’ compensation claim, a construction accident lawsuit could be filed against the person or party responsible. These lawsuits can provide additional compensation for all lost wages, physical pain, and emotional trauma.

The Disability Guys have successfully assisted thousands of New Yorkers with their workers’ compensation claims and construction accident lawsuits. Contact our local law offices today to learn more about the compensation that you may be owed.

Thursday, August 1, 2019

Construcion Worker Crushed By Collapsing Wall In Queens

Watching new buildings being constructed can be exciting but the truth is that the workers involved in the construction process are putting their lives at risk almost every day. Steps can be taken to prevent accidents from happening but often these steps are overlooked because it will delay construction and cost more money. The result is lives lost on the job.

Wall Collapse In Queens Claims A Life

At around 2 p.m. at Rockaway Beach, a 57-year-old man who was working in a partially constructed building was crushed when a wall collapsed. His coworkers discovered him while he was still alive but unconscious and he was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite his emergency doctors best efforts, he died from his injuries at the hospital.

The Department of Buildings is investigating the accident.

Families Can Recover Compensation After A Construction Accident Death

Workers’ compensation, which is required by law, offers death benefits to the loved ones of a construction worker who was killed in a work accident. These benefits are no-fault, so even if the employee's actions contributed to their accident, benefits should be awarded. Unfortunately, insurance companies make it very difficult to obtain these benefits so that the company saves money.

The legal team at Markhoff & Mittman is proud to represent the loved ones of workers whose lives have been taken too early. Our lawyers aggressively fight for the maximum compensation possible, knowing that while it won’t bring a loved one back, it will help their family build a financially stable future.

When a client chooses to work with Markhoff and Mittman why can feel secure knowing that they have the experience and passion for the law on their side. Our goal is client satisfaction and we make sure our clients feel supported through every step of the legal process.

To learn more about our law firm, contact one of our local offices:

Monday, July 1, 2019

Golden Theatre Stagehands Injured In Work Accident

The Golden Theatre is a Broadway theatre that has brought a lot of joy and amusement to visitors and the workers who help to put on shows. But recently, a work accident caused three stagehands to become injured.

Three Golden Theatre Workers Transported To Local Hospitals

According to the the organization that owns and operates the famous venue, the incident occurred around 11 a.m. on June 27th, 2019. A piece of rigging that was in the "fly space" of the stage fell nearly 30 feet, striking the three workers.

The falling object caused the workers to sustain serious injuries that could potentially be life altering. One stagehand had an ear severed and another was diagnosed with a fractured skull. The third has a broken arm and also sustained back and neck trauma. Each is in stable condition and is receiving medical care for their injuries.

How Can Workers' Comp Help These Injured Men?

The medical care that these injured men will require may be quite expensive. By filing a workers' compensation claim, they should have all medical treatments pertaining to these injuries paid for through the insurance policy. If they are unable to return to work for an extended period of time they may also be able to recover compensation for a fraction of lost wages.

Sadly, through no fault of their own, it may be difficult to obtain payments through workers' comp. But by working with an experienced attorney injured workers can obtain the full compensation that they are owed.

To learn more about workers' compensation claims and how an attorney can assist you, contact The Disability Guys at one of our local offices:

Monday, June 3, 2019

Construction Worker Falls Through Scaffolding Without Guardrail

Yet again, a hard working New York construction worker has died due to a fall from a height.

Construction Worker Falls 30 Feet To His Death In Manhattan

On May 18th, 2019, a 49-year-old construction worker from Queens was working to clean debris off of a 5th floor scaffold. The building he was working at is undergoing a $100 million renovation and construction work has been ongoing for some time. The victim, Giuseppe Pagano, had been a long time employee of the construction company, Sciame Construction.

Although investigators are unsure why he slipped, what happened next is obvious. Pagano fell, slipping through a section of the scaffolding that lacked a guardrail, and fell 30 feet. He was rushed to the hospital immediately but was died from the injuries he sustained in the fall.

A stop work order was issued for the site immediately and representatives for the Department of Buildings have indicated that they intend to file violations.

A spokesperson for the construction company stated that they are deeply saddened by the loss and are cooperating fully with the DOB. It has been suggested that a subcotractor may have removed the guardrail while an interior curtain wall system was being installed. Whatever the reason, the fact is that the guardrail was required.

Family Can Pursue Justice After A Construction Death

When a construction worker dies, their loved ones can recover benefits through workers' compensation. These benefits can help ease any financial strain that occurs because of the loss of income.

Additionally, if a third-party is found to be responsible for the accident which caused the workers' death, a wrongful death claim may be filed. This can provide additional compensation and can also help the family feel a sense of justice.

To learn more about workers' compensation claims and wrongful death lawsuits, contact the experience New York attorneys at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.:

Wednesday, May 1, 2019

Construction Worker Falls 13 Stories To His Death

A young man's life was cut tragically short because of a construction accident in Brooklyn.

Young Construction Worker Falls Off Of Building In Brooklyn

At around 10:00 a.m. on April 10th, 2019, 23-year-old Erik Mendoza was helping a coworker replace bricks under a water tower. Officials have not made public what happened next, but what is known is that Mendoza fell from the top of the building, falling 13-stories before landing. The fall resulted in his immediate death.

Mendoza had only been working at the construction job for a week before he died.

Many have wondered if the proper safety standards were in place and if Mendoza had been provided with a safety harness but officials have not commented on this. An investigation is ongoing.

Fatal Construction Accidents Are On The Rise In New York

When comparing the number of fatal accidents so far in 2019 to five years ago, a 33% increase in fatal accidents has occurred. While it might be easy to blame the construction boom in New York, the reality is that the vast majority of these deaths could have been prevented if the correct safety measures were taken.

Today, The Department Of Buildings requires all construction workers to have a minimum of 10 hours of training before they are allowed on a job site. Proof of this training is shown through a training card but already many employers are providing employees with counterfeit copies of this card so that time and money can be saved.

The DOB has announced that when these fake cards are discovered, the property owner, employer, and contractors will be fined $5,000 each. They hope to continue pressuring employers in the industry into complying with the law so that lives can be saved.

If you or a loved one have been injured while working a construction job you may be entitled to compensation through workers' compensation insurance. Call one of our local law offices to learn more.

Contact us at one of our local law offices:

Monday, April 22, 2019

Construction Worker Crushed By Falling Counter Weight From Crane

Once again, a construction worker has died in New York on the job, leaving their loved ones behind to mourn.

Crane Accidents Frequently Claim Lives

On Saturday, April 13th, 2019, a 34-year-old man and his coworkers were in the process of erecting a crane when a horrible accident happened. The counterweight on the crane dropped, crushing the 34-year-old construction worker. He died immediately.

His two coworkers were injured and had to be taken to the hospital for treatment.

A spokesman for the Department of Buildings said, "No building is worth a life.Every worker who leaves for the job site in the morning deserves to come home safely at night." He then confirmed that the department will be investigating the accident to determine what went wrong.

Death Benefits Are Available Through Workers' Comp

Many construction workers who are killed on the job leave behind families who were dependent on their income. This means that not only are their loved ones suffering immensely from the sudden death, but they are now facing financial distress.

Death benefits that are available through workers' compensation insurance can help to keep the surviving loved ones of an employee financially stable. But obtaining these benefits can be quite difficult. The lawyers at Markhoff and Mittman have helped thousands of families obtain the benefits that they deserve.

Our legal team understands how upsetting this time is and our goal is to ensure that our clients obtain the maximum benefits possible. Let us handle the insurance companies so you can focus on the future.

Contact us at one of our local law offices:

Thursday, April 11, 2019

Manhattan Construction Worker Killed By Falling Stone

Once again a New York construction worker has lost his life on the job - a life that could have been potentially saved if emergency crews had been able to reach him sooner.

Construction Worker Seriously Injured Seven Stories Up

On April 8th, 2019, a 51-year-old construction worker was on scaffolding seven stories high working on the side of a building in Manhattan when disaster struck. A heavy coping stone which was supposed to be an anchor for the scaffolding dislodged and fell. The stone hit him in the head and caused the scaffolding to shift.

The man found himself in a terrible position - he had to cling to the scaffolding to prevent himself from falling and he had also sustained a serious head injury. He screamed for help and those passing by heard him but could do nothing to assist him. Firefighters responded quickly and were able to reach him with a ladder, then passed him into the building through a window.

He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

It has not been noted if he was wearing any safety gear at the time of the accident, such as a helmet or a harness.

The Department Of Buildings Will Investigate The Fatal Accident

The deputy commissioner for The N.Y. Department of Buildings has indicated that the administration will be investigating the accident as they do all fatal accidents. Their goal is to determine what caused the accident, if all necessary safety precautions required under the law had been in place, and if the construction company in charge of the site had provided the worker with the proper training.

If they find that the construction company failed to protect their employee and violated safety standards, heavy fines could be imposed and even criminal charges.

Regardless of what happens during the investigation, the loved ones of the deceased have the right to file for death benefits through workers' compensation. These benefits won't bring back their loved one but a paid claim could help to cover the financial losses that they have and will sustain due to his death.

If you have lost a loved one due to a workplace accident, contact The Disability Guys at one of our local law offices today.

Friday, February 8, 2019

Airline Mechanics Report Continued Pressure To Work In Unsafe Conditions

A CBS News investigation has culminated in a report that shows many aviation mechanics feel that their safety and the safety of passengers is constantly put on the line because of pressure to turn planes around faster than ever before.

Tense Confrontation Shows Mechanic's Fears

"We're an accident waiting to happen." the mechanic tells a manager in a video caught on a cell phone camera.

The Federal Aviation Administration believes that confrontations like this one are occurring more frequently because airlines are pushing to have as many planes in the sky as possible, bringing in revenue. In order to do this, mechanics are placed under incredible pressure to check and fix planes as quickly as possible. The problem is that this pressure can cause mistakes to be made and accidents to happen.

In some cases, the pressure is so intense that the FAA has discovered that mechanics have been retaliated against for pulling planes because of mechanical issues. In other situations, mechanics have been seriously injured because they are rushing to do their job and not taking the proper safety precautions.

Safety Precautions Save Lives

Even if it adds time to a task, safety procedures exist to protect workers from being hurt on the job. While many employers don't want to admit it, protecting workers actually saves a company money in the long run. But it's difficult to see past the immediate money that is being spent by consumers.

If you or a loved one have been injured on the job, let our workers' compensation law firm help you get the compensation that you deserve.

Monday, January 14, 2019

OSHA Proposes $155,205 Fine After Crane Accident

Shortly after the Manhattan District Attorney 's Office announced felony charges had been filed against two construction supervisors, OSHA has announced that they have cited fines of $155,205 against the contractor.

OSHA Alleges Contractor Put Workers In Danger

In June of 2018, two construction workers were seriously injured when a mini crane tipped and fell four stories, hitting one man on the back and causing the other to fall a total of three stories. Both sustained serious injuries.

According to the report from OSHA, the contractor failed to provide a safe workplace for all employees because they did not ensure that the employees using the crane were properly trained. The administration further stated that work was being done without an approved engineering plan from the Department of Buildings which would have required the crane to be tethered.

This case highlights the changes that will hopefully coming in New York, with prosecutors finally seeking criminal charges against contractors who fail to uphold safety standards on construction sites - a common occurrence in the industry.

Many construction workers hope that with increased fines and criminal charges will inspire employers who currently cut corners in order to save time and money to make better choices.

Our Legal Team Can Help Injured Workers

If you or a loved one have been injured in a construction accident, contact our experienced workers' compensation attorneys at one of our local law offices: