A ride-share driver in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District had a close call when bricks fell from a building and landed on his car. Juan Monegro, the driver, was inside his car having lunch when the incident occurred. He described hearing a loud noise and feeling pain all over his body as bricks hit his vehicle.
Witnesses in the area also described the chaotic scene, with people screaming and bricks falling onto the car. Monegro suffered arm and back injuries from the incident. The Department of Buildings reported that during façade repair work on the eighth floor of the building, a piece of façade dislodged and fell onto the sidewalk shed and the car below.
The building owner, TF Cornerstone, received violations from the DOB, including failure to safeguard, and all façade operations were halted with a stop-work order. Despite attempts to reach the building owners for comment, there was no response by the deadline. This incident is a reminder of the dangers of construction work in busy urban areas.
This incident is not the first of its kind in Manhattan, as a similar incident resulted in a fatality in 2019. The DOB has emphasized the need for contractors to ensure the safety of their work sites to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. It is crucial for building owners and contractors to prioritize safety measures to protect both workers and the public.
Construction work in bustling cities like New York can pose risks to both workers and bystanders. It is essential for authorities to enforce strict safety regulations to prevent accidents and injuries. The DOB’s actions in issuing violations and stop-work orders send a clear message that safety must be a top priority on construction sites.
As the investigation into this incident continues, it is important for all stakeholders involved to review and enhance safety protocols to avoid similar accidents. The well-being of workers and the public should always come first in any construction project. Stay informed with the latest news and updates on safety measures in construction areas to ensure your own well-being and that of others.
