51-Year-Old Construction Worker Dies in Lakewood Construction Fall at 1800 Avenue of the States – Tragic construction accident in Lakewood claims life of 51-year-old construction worker. Learn about the alarming risks facing construction workers and how Markhoff & Mittman’s Newburgh construction accident attorneys fight for victims’ rights in NY and NJ. Discover why falls remain the leading cause of fatalities and the importance of proper safety measures.
Fatal Fall at Lakewood Construction Site Claims Worker’s Life
A tragic accident occurred at a construction site in Lakewood, New Jersey, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old worker from The Bronx. The incident took place on Friday morning at approximately 7:30 a.m. at 1800 Avenue of the States.
Details of the Construction Accident
Jorge O. Paltan-Ajila was working on the third floor of the building under construction when the accident happened. While handing a tool to a co-worker from a boom lift, Paltan-Ajila stepped onto an unsecured beam. This misstep caused both him and the beam to fall to the ground.
Lakewood Police Captain Gregory Staffordsmith reported that Paltan-Ajila suffered severe traumatic injuries from the fall. Despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Safety Concerns Raised
The incident has raised questions about safety protocols at the construction site. Captain Staffordsmith noted that while Paltan-Ajila was wearing a safety harness, it was not secured to an anchor post at the time of the fall.
Ongoing Investigation
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched an investigation into the incident. They have a six-month window to complete their inquiry and issue any necessary citations.
Company Background
Paltan-Ajila was employed by WMT, a subcontractor of Westside Windows. A U.S. Department of Labor spokeswoman revealed that neither company has a history of OSHA inspections. Westside Windows is, in turn, a subcontractor of Keystone Developers, which underwent an OSHA inspection in December 2024 without receiving any citations.
In a poignant detail, Captain Staffordsmith mentioned that two of Paltan-Ajila’s cousins were also working at the same construction site when the accident occurred.
Location of Fatal Construction Site Accident
The construction site is situated near Shoretown Ballpark, home to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws baseball team.
As the investigation unfolds, this tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety protocols in high-risk work environments.
Alarming Statistics Underscore Need for Improved Construction Safety in New Jersey
Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics paints a concerning picture of construction worker safety in New Jersey. In 2023, the state witnessed 66,800 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses across all private industries, with a total recordable cases (TRC) incidence rate of 2.3 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. The construction industry, in particular, faces significant challenges:
Construction and extraction occupations accounted for 22 workplace fatalities in 2020, more than any other occupation in New Jersey.
- Falls were responsible for 43% of fatal construction work injuries in the state.
- The construction industry reported nonfatal injuries and illnesses at a rate of 2.1 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers in 2020, higher than the overall private industry average.
- Specialty trade contractors faced the highest risk, accounting for 69% of fatal injuries among construction workers.
Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.
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Newburgh, NY 12550
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Advocating for Construction Worker Rights and Safety
These statistics highlight the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and accountability in the construction industry. The Newburgh construction accident attorneys at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C. are committed to standing beside workers who have been injured or killed while on duty.
Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of construction accident cases and the devastating impact they can have on workers and their families. We work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable, whether they are contractors, property owners, or equipment manufacturers.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a construction accident, don’t face the challenges alone. The attorneys at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C. are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the complex process of seeking justice and securing the compensation you deserve.
Source
Unsecured Beam Accident Leads to Construction Worker Death in New Jersey
Brian Mittman, the Managing Partner and Owner at Markhoff & Mittman, P.C., embodies the spirit of "An Unexpected Legal Experience" in both his personal and professional life. With unwavering dedication, Brian tirelessly advocates for the rights of injured and disabled individuals in New York.
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