Airline workers are constantly under pressure, as the airlines are always trying to turn flights around faster, load the luggage faster and earn more profit. The industry as a whole has struggled mightily in recent years, and that constant pressure to not only survive but succeed often comes down to the performance levels of the employees who make these flights happen.
Unfortunately, this can also lead to dangerous situations. While most would think of danger being associated with the engines of the planes or even the fuel, airline workers must also navigate dangerous equipment in substandard conditions. This appears to have been the case in a tragic accident that occurred on Tuesday at Miami International Airport.
According to the Miami Herald:
“Thomas Jukovich, a 43-year-old customer service manager, was working outside on a lift at Gate E-10, according to MIA officials.
Airport employees said the Hallandale Beach man supervised several gates, including one assigned to American Airlines Flight 995.
The red-eye flight to Sao Paolo, Brazil, was to leave at 11:30 p.m. but was delayed. The plane was still on the rain-drenched tarmac two hours later when the manager jumped onto a baggage loader, employees said.
About 1:50 a.m. Jukovich fell from the lift, which can go as high as 25 to 30 feet. Firefighters stationed at the airport rushed to his location at 1:52 a.m., but it was too late — Jukovich was already dead on the tarmac, according to Miami-Dade fire rescue spokesman Lt. Eddy Ballester.”
At this point, it’s too early to tell how this accident occurred. OSHA is involved with the investigation, and it could take six months to complete. However, if you or somoene you love has been injured or worse due to work conditions, contact the Miami personal injury lawyers at Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation. The attorneys at the firm have been fighting for the rights of the injured for 25 years.
Wed, May 20, 2009
Motorcycle Accidents, Workers' Compensation