Most people understand how dangerous construction work can be. Depending on the specific project, a laborer might be high above the ground, next to live electric lines or in close proximity to heavy equipment. There are also other hazards that might not immediately come to mind. In May, an employee of the New Jersey American Water Company died during a construction project for the utliity when a vehicle rammed into their work zone, striking him and several others.
Kyle Sease of Sicklerville lost his life at the scene. Another NJAWC worker sustained critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital for emergency care. The vehicle also struck two additional employees and collided with two cars near the work site before coming to a stop. Sease was a military veteran and a father of three, but despite pleas from his family, no charges have yet been filed against anyone in connection to the accident.
The sudden and catastrophic nature of this incident highlights the vulnerability of workers in construction zones, even when proper precautions appear to be in place. These areas are designed to protect employees of construction and utility companies, but cases such as this illustrate the devastating consequences that can result when drivers ignore signs and the laws designed to protect workers.
According to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse, accidents that kill laborers occur on all types of roadways, including interstates, principal arterial roads and local streets. In many cases, driver distractions contributed to the crashes. Someone who is looking at their phone might not realize in time that the traffic pattern has changed or that a quick reduction in speed is necessary.
While the workers’ compensation system provides some relief for family members of employees who die in construction accidents, there might also be third-party liability in a case like that of Kyle Sease. In a wrongful death claim against a negligent driver, plaintiffs can recover damages not available through workers’ comp, including payment for their emotional pain and the loss of companionship provided by the victim.
Seigel Law advocates for victims of construction accidents and their families in workers’ compensation, personal injury and wrongful death claims. For a free consultation, please call 201-444-4000 or contact us online. Our office is in Ridgewood.