July 14, 2011

A Pennsylvania tractor-trailer driver was killed near Bordentown Township, New Jersey, around 8:00 AM yesterday. ABC 6 Action News reported that the driver was killed when a concrete road barrier fell and crushed him.

The driver was delivering concrete barriers to a worksite near exit 7 on the New Jersey Turnpike for use in a road-widening project. As he was loosening security straps on the trailer to unload his cargo, a barrier fell on top of him. The man was declared dead at the scene.

The incident is under full investigation by authorities with the New Jersey State Police Construction Unit, the Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and Troop C Detectives. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been informed of the accident and may also investigate.

OSHA’s strict regulations regarding the make-up, creation, and transportation of materials like concrete barriers are designed to protect employees from the dangers they may pose, and also protect the public once equipment has been installed. Any diversion from these standards may put many individuals at risk, and could be grounds for a lawsuit against those who strayed from regulations.

The Pennsylvania Wrongful Death and Truck Accident Attorneys with Lundy Law understand the many rules and regulations governing construction and trucking, and may be able to help if you have been involved in an accident while working in either industry. Contact them at 1-800-LUNDY-LAW or get a free online consultation.