It is likely that most people are aware of the hazards associated with working at a construction site in the state of Pennsylvania. The often perilous job sites and heavy equipment leave every day with potential for an injury inducing accident to occur.

Earlier this week one such accident did occur at a construction site in Queens, New York. Several workers were hurt when a crane located at the site collapsed. It was affixed at the site of what will eventually be an apartment building, 25-stories tall.

The collapse of the crane seriously injured three workers. An additional four workers were injured as well though their injuries were described as minor.

Immediately following the incident there was no indication as to what caused the piece of equipment to collapse. It is not the first time that the owner of the crane has faced a collapse. Another of its cranes was involved in a fatal accident in Manhattan in 2008. Sadly, two construction workers died in that incident.

As is the case in most workplace accidents it is highly likely that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will launch an investigation into the matter. When as a result of such an investigation safety violations are uncovered, it is not uncommon for fines to be levied against the businesses found to be in violation of the standards.

It is almost certain that the injured workers in the most recent crane collapse will seek compensation via a workers' compensation claim. These benefits are designed to help the injured individual through the often difficult recovery period. In situations where the injuries are more severe, they may continue for a longer period of time. It is unclear what the injured workers in this case could potentially receive.

Source: CNN, "New York crane collapses, injures 7 construction workers," Jason Kessler, Jan. 10, 2012

• Our firm handles similar situations to the one discussed in this post. If you would like to learn more about our practice, please visit our Pittsburgh construction accidents page.