In addition to the enormous path of destruction, Superstorm Sandy is also leaving a growing number of New York and New Jersey lawsuits in her wake. As individuals and businesses take stock of their losses and look to place blame, many are looking beyond the storm itself.

Several businesses impacted by the crane collapse at a Manhattan construction site have filed a negligence lawsuit against the contractor. As the top of the crane dangled from the 70th floor of the skyscraper, New York City officials closed surrounding streets and evacuated businesses and residents for nearly a week.

“The crane collapse and the ensuing week-long evacuation was a direct result of defendants’ failure to prepare, maintain, operate, and secure the crane to withstand the winds of the widely anticipated Hurricane Sandy,” the complaint states. The plaintiffs also claim that the lawsuit is filed on behalf of a larger class of residents and businesses impacted by the collapse.