Construction Worker Seriously Injured in Queens Elevator-Shaft Accident
Construction Worker Seriously Injured in Queens Elevator-Shaft Accident
On April 6, 2022, a 45-year-old construction worker, Holger Molino-Pinos, tragically fell approximately 20 feet into an open elevator shaft at a construction site at 3-50 St. Nicholas Avenue in Ridgewood, Queens. Rescue crews transported the worker in critical condition to Wyckoff Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Tragically, the victim was only in his mid-30’s and left behind a wife and children. The Department of Buildings issued a full stop-work order at the site and launched an investigation, noting that this incident followed 8 prior safety violations by the Department of Buildings. Four other workers were previously injured on the project.
Why You Should Consult with a Personal Injury Law Firm After a Construction Accident
In the aftermath of a construction-related incident—especially one involving serious injury or death—it’s crucial to consult with a specialized law firm like Hill & Moin, LLP. Here are 5 key reasons to do so:
- Construction-specific legal expertise: Hill & Moin’s attorneys have deep experience handling construction-site injury cases in NYC, including falls from heights, elevator shaft accidents, and equipment-related trauma.
- High-caliber legal team: The attorneys are known for their deep knowledge of New York Labor Law (including strict liability statutes such as Labor Law § 240) and their ability to navigate complex third-party liability claims.
- Outstanding client satisfaction: With an average rating of 5-stars on Google Reviews, clients consistently praise Hill & Moin for being responsive, compassionate, and results-driven.
- Comprehensive case support: The firm collects critical evidence—like site inspection records, safety logs, and expert testimony—to build the strongest possible claim.
- Maximized recovery: Hill & Moin fights for the best possible financial recovery, including lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical costs, and expenses associated with the funeral and burial in the case of wrongful death.
How Hill & Moin, LLP Can Help in Cases Like This
At Hill & Moin, LLP, injured workers and their families receive personalized representation from attorneys experienced in NYC construction accident litigation. Whether dealing with serious injuries or wrongful death, the firm knows how to hold liable parties —such as general contractors or property owners—accountable. Their reputation for professionalism, clear communication, and effective advocacy is reflected in glowing online reviews. They help clients secure compensation and justice after devastating incidents, ensuring legal rights are protected every step of the way.
NYC Construction Site Injury Statistics (2022–2024)
Construction remains one of the most hazardous jobs in New York City:
- NYCOSH’s Deadly Skyline report shows that 20 construction workers died in NYC in 2021 (a 54% rise from 2020), with a fatality rate of 11.2 per 100,000 workers—well above the city-wide average for all jobs.
- Through January 2024, Queens accounted for 8 injuries and 1 fatality from construction incidents—about 15% of the city’s totals.
- In 2022, New York City saw 24 construction trade worker deaths, most due to falls, slips, and trips. Falls remain the leading cause of fatal workplace injury in the sector.
- Between 2023 and early 2024, over 250 injuries and dozens of fatal falls were logged citywide by the Department of Buildings. Falls accounted for about 65% of injuries in that period.
These figures underscore the persistent danger construction workers face—and highlight why securing knowledgeable legal representation after an accident is so important.
Call Hill & Moin, LLP Today! We Want to Hear About Your Construction Injury!
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a construction accident like the Queens elevator-shaft tragedy, it’s critical to contact Hill & Moin, LLP. Their construction law expertise, strong client reputation, and ability to pursue third-party claims make them a reliable advocate for recovering compensation and asserting your rights effectively.
Sources:
https://nycosh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/NYCOSH-Construction-Fatalities-Report-2023.pdf
https://www.nyc.gov/assets/buildings/pdf/cons_accident_summary_0124.pdf