Accidents in Construction Zones on Bridges

New York City’s bridges are constantly being inspected, repaired, expanded, and upgraded to keep millions of commuters moving every day. From the Brooklyn Bridge to the RFK Bridge and the George Washington Bridge, construction crews often work just feet away from moving traffic. At the same time, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians travel through temporary work zones.

These projects improve public safety for New Yorkers, commuters, and tourists, but they also create conditions where serious accidents can occur. If you suffered an injury in or near a bridge construction zone, a NYC construction accident attorney can help determine who is liable in your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why Bridge Construction Zones Can Be So Dangerous

Bridge construction presents unique hazards not always found on traditional roadway projects. Crews may work at significant heights, operate heavy equipment in confined spaces, or temporarily redirect traffic through narrower lanes. Even when safety plans are in place, one careless act or overlooked hazard can have devastating consequences.

According to the National Safety Council, work zone crashes continue to injure thousands of people across the country every year. In 2024 alone, there were over 42,000 work zone injuries and 850 deaths.

Some of the most common bridge construction zone accidents include:

• Vehicles striking construction barriers or equipment
• Falling tools, materials, or debris
• Collisions caused by sudden lane shifts or traffic backups
• Pedestrian accidents near temporary walkways
• Construction equipment crashes involving cranes, lifts, or trucks

Who May Be Responsible for a Bridge Construction Accident?

Determining liability after a bridge construction accident is rarely straightforward. Multiple contractors, subcontractors, government agencies, engineers, and equipment suppliers may all play a role in planning and carrying out the project.

Depending on the circumstances, liability may involve:

• A contractor who failed to follow required safety procedures
• A subcontractor who created an unsafe condition
• A property owner or government entity responsible for maintaining the work zone
• An equipment manufacturer whose defective machinery contributed to the accident
• A negligent driver who ignored construction zone traffic controls

Our attorneys carefully investigate construction accidents to determine exactly what happened and identify every potentially responsible party. This investigation often includes reviewing maintenance records, work schedules, surveillance footage, witness statements, and applicable safety regulations.

Bridge Construction Accidents Can Cause Severe Injuries

Because bridge construction frequently involves heavy machinery, elevated work areas, and high-speed traffic, injuries are often significant. Victims may require extensive medical treatment and face lengthy recoveries.

• Common injuries include:
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Multiple fractures
• Internal injuries
• Severe lacerations
• Permanent disabilities

Speak With a New York City Construction Accident Attorney

Bridge construction is essential to New York City’s infrastructure, but safety should never be sacrificed to keep a project moving. When negligence causes a preventable accident, injured victims deserve answers and the opportunity to pursue full compensation for their losses.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a bridge construction zone anywhere in New York City, the attorneys at Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, PLLC are ready to review your case. We can explain your legal options, investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, and deal directly with the insurance companies on your behalf.

To schedule a free consultation, call (212) 285-3300 or send a message to our team.