A Woman in Flushing Is Hit By Falling Debris

A falling debris accident in Flushing at a strip mall killed a 67-year-old woman in January. She was walking by a building, and debris from a facade fell, striking her. The accident occurred at the Golden Shopping Mall at 42-38 Main Street.

TheRealDeal.com reported that a panel covered in aluminum and plywood fell off the facade of the building. The Department of Buildings (DOB) sent engineers and inspectors to investigate the whole building for any other hazards. Queens Council member Peter Koo insisted the entire building be shut down until the safety issues were addressed and scaffolding was in place.

Last summer the hall had been closed for renovations. Authorities also released a stop work order for unauthorized construction.

Within a month, two women have died from a similar hazard. Erica Tishman, an architect, also died as a result of a falling facade from a Midtown office building. The Department of Buildings (DOB) would conduct follow-up inspections within 60 days. Netting or a sidewalk shed had to be installed and if not done, the city would do the work at the owner's expense.

Facts About Unsafe Buildings in New York

Analyses done by the DOB indicate numerous landlords are in non-compliance with requirements for regular inspection and repair of facades.

Here are some of the facts:

• For nearly six years, there were 4,790 Environmental Control Board violations related to facades
• Over 50% (2,474) buildings are still in violation
• Fines for these infractions owed to the city are close to $3 million
• Since 2014 more than 22,000 violations have occurred related to facades

(Reference: TheRealDeal.com)

Legal Liability

Building owners must ensure that their structures are safe. Non-compliance with citations issued by the DOB to correct unsafe conditions is a form of negligence. Owners are subject to lawsuits if unsafe conditions result in serious injury or death.

If you are injured or a loved one has died as a result of a construction accident or unsafe building, discuss the prospects of pursuing a lawsuit with an experienced personal injury lawyer.