Two Injured In Parking Garage Collapse at Miami Dade College
Miami Dade Fire and Rescue authorities are investigating the cause of a parking garage collapse that left two workers injured, one in serious condition and the other with a leg injury. The accident occurred on April 15th, 2016 when a beam fell off a construction crane, causing a concrete plate to come crashing down on the third floor of the structure.
The accident took place near the college’s West Campus garage at 3800 Northwest 115th Avenue in Doral. While the workers did not sustain very serious injuries, they were forced to be evacuated from a basket down a ladder-truck.
A spokesperson for the school said no students were injured and traffic was light on campus since the incident took place on Friday when fewer classes are in session. The campus remained open throughout the ordeal. The five-story building was erected with the hopes of meeting the growing attendance at the college.
Four Killed In Parking Garage Accident on Miami Dade College Campus in 2012
The structure where the latest incident took place was also the site of a deadly 2012 accident that killed four workers when part of the garage collapsed. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration issues fines exceeding tens of thousands of dollars for safety lapses that led to the tragic building collapse.
Investigators in that case found evidence of missing welds and grout used in support columns and cited the general contractor and subcontractor for failing to properly brace the support columns and inspect them as needed. One of the deceased workers in the October 2012 collapse was trapped in the structure for 17 hours and had to have both legs amputated before his death.
In response to the incident, surviving family members of the deceased workers filed wrongful death lawsuits against the construction company hired to perform the job, Ajax Building Corporation. Out-of-court settlements were eventually reached with all the families of the victims.
Can I File a Lawsuit for My Workplace Injury?
Under Florida law, workers’ compensation is an exclusive remedy for injuries suffered on the job. This means that injured workers may not sue their employers for their on the job injuries even if the employer was negligent.
However, employees hurt on the job by a third party’s negligence may bring suit against those entities if plaintiffs feel they are responsible for their damages. Unlike workers’ compensation claims, plaintiffs in personal injury or wrongful death suits may claim damages for their pain and suffering and do not have limits on economic damages.
Miami Construction Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one was injured in a construction or industrial accident, our team of experienced Miami construction accident lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve. Whether you have standing to file a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury lawsuit, the Pendas Law Firm will work hard to maximize the compensation that you receive in your claim or lawsuit.
Contact us for a free consultation about your case. Our office serves clients throughout Orlando, Tampa, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale & Miami.
