The next time your cell phone reception wavers (especially when you go into the subway), you probably will wonder if it is your location or if your phone is simply malfunctioning. However, it may be due to the cell towers in the area, or the lack thereof. Nevertheless, the race to gain market share in the growing mobile phone industry is leading providers to build towers at a rapid pace.
What may be a benefit to consumers may also be a significant danger for workers who build and maintain cell towers in New York City. According to a PBS “FRONTLINE” report, the number of workers killed while working on cell towers is grossly disproportionate compared to the number of workers killed on other construction sites. Nearly half of all construction site deaths between 2003 and 2011 were attributable to cell tower falls.
With more cell towers being planned, it prompted the Occupational Health and Safety Administration to issue a warning to cell phone providers. Essentially, the notice reminded them of their roles in ensuring that contractors were properly training their workers on how to properly use safety harnesses, and how avoid dangerous situations.
There are a number of legal implications that can come from a construction site accident. Injured workers could seek payment through workers’ compensation. However, depending on the circumstances, they may also be able to pursue a lawsuit. Further, the surviving family members may also be able to bring a wrongful death lawsuit to recover a host of future damages, including lost future income, loss of companionship and emotional distress.
If you have questions about your legal rights and options after a loved one has been hurt in a cell phone tower construction accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can advise you.
