Numerous Cars Crash into Manhattan Construction Sites

Manhattan is famous for its never-ending construction, and it seems like there is always a major building project within sight. Construction can be a very dangerous business – and not just for workers. Motorists also face serious hazards, and at least two drivers have crashed into construction sites within the past few days. What are your legal options if you have been injured in a Manhattan car crash like this?

MTA Bus Hits Crane, Causing Fatal Injuries 

In January of 2025, it was reported that a worker had died after a collision with an MTA bus in Manhattan. Police say that the MTA bus collided with the worker’s crane lift while he was changing a billboard on Fifth Avenue. The impact threw the worker out of the raised platform, sending him 20 feet to the ground. Although he was transported to a nearby hospital by first responders, he did not survive his injuries.

It is not clear what caused the bus driver to collide with the crane lift. However, the bus driver remained at the scene of the crash – and police did not charge him. None of the bus passengers were injured, but they transferred to a different bus. MTA buses seem to be crashing with considerable frequency – something that is becoming alarming for residents of Manhattan.

Car Crashes into Scaffolding in Manhattan

 A similar incident occurred days earlier, when a vehicle crashed into scaffolding in Midtown. Police say the accident occurred at around 4 AM, and involved two vehicles. First, a Toyota Camry collided with another vehicle on Madison Avenue. Next, the Camry driver veered into the scaffolding – causing considerable damage to the vehicle.

Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in the crash – although both occupants of the Camry were hospitalized as a precautionary measure. Authorities say that they are still investigating the root cause of the crash, and the scaffolding became unstable after the crash. This caused police to order the property owner to repair the damage.

Scaffolding is a somewhat controversial topic in Manhattan, as many local residents do not appreciate the sheer number of sidewalk sheds in the area. In 2024, Mayor Adams stated that they “rob New Yorkers of vibrant streetscapes” while affecting small businesses. Others have pointed out that scaffolding limits visibility, and this causes serious safety concerns for drivers and pedestrians.

Key Takeaways 

• Construction accidents may lead to personal injury claims if caused by reckless drivers
• Impacts with scaffolding can be particularly dangerous for drivers
• Crane collapses are becoming far too common in New York

Can a Manhattan Auto Accident Lawyer Help Me? 

If you suffered injuries due to a reckless driver, a Manhattan auto accident lawyer may be able to help. Legal assistance could be helpful – regardless of whether you were on the road, in a construction site, or on the sidewalk. An auto accident claim can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress. To learn more, consider contacting Cohan Law, PLLC today.

Sources: 

abc7ny.com/post/midtown-fatal-accident-construction-worker-killed-mta-bus-hits-boom-lift/15840077/

nyc.gov/office-of-the-mayor/news/632-24/mayor-adams-releases-new-study-finding-sidewalk-sheds-scaffolding-cost-manhattan-businesses#:~:text=%E2%80%9CSidewalk%20sheds%20are%20an%20important,pockets%20of%20small%20business%20owners.