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Lever & Ecker, PLLC April 17, 2023 Construction Accidents
If you work in construction or walk by a work zone in New York, you may be at risk for a crane accident, which could cause serious injuries. Those who work with or around cranes are responsible for operating them properly and maintaining the equipment to prevent these accidents and keep people working and walking near the crane safe. Most crane accidents are entirely preventable, and these events most often occur when people neglect their duties to care for the safety of others. If you suffered injuries in a crane accident, our lawyers at Lever & Ecker, PLLC, are here for you.
Given our 65+ years of legal experience advocating for New Yorkers’ rights, we have the skills and knowledge to take on your crane accident case, regardless of scope. Our compassionate lawyers support you every step of the way and handle every aspect of your claim, so you can focus on recovery instead of worrying about the legal process. We take a hands-on approach by creating a customized litigation plan based on the unique needs and circumstances of your case. This way, you understand the details of your claim while having a less stressful experience.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average of 42 fatal crane accidents occur yearly. These preventable incidents most often happen due to human error. If someone else caused a crane accident and your injuries, you have the right to file a claim and seek financial compensation for your losses. Common causes of these events include, just by way of example:
Cranes have a weight limit to prevent them from tipping over. They also use counterweight and out-rigging systems to balance the weight put on them. If someone neglects to consider these issues and exceeds the crane’s weight limit, it could tip over, or the arm could collapse, resulting in catastrophic injuries to those near the crane.
Crane accidents can occur if the equipment is not assembled correctly. For example, if the crane does not have the required metal or wood blocking to support and stabilize its loads, the arm could collapse. If this issue was due to a manufacturing error or defect, the manufacturer might also be liable for your injuries.
Site owners, construction managers and employers are responsible for ensuring those who operate cranes are trained and have completed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) courses on operating cranes. Workers should also understand the dangers of operating a crane and the safe distance they need to keep from other workers. If there is a failure to provide proper training, these entities may be held accountable for the accident.
Electrocution from power lines is a common cause of crane accidents. Crane operators should always be aware of their surroundings, including the location of live wires. Furthermore, the power to these lines should be shut off before work begins near them. In the event of an accident arising from live wires, a variety of entities and individuals at the work site may be liable for your injuries.
Cranes need to be regularly maintained to prevent mechanical failures and accidents. This includes keeping them oiled and swiftly repairing any problems. An employer or other company charged with maintenance and repair may be responsible for an accident if they do not maintain their equipment.
Many crane accidents occur during the dismantling process. If someone removes the pins holding the arm of the crane together without support, the arm could fall and result in an accident. In these cases, the crane company and various other on-site entities may be held accountable.
If a site owner or manager wants to get a construction job done quickly, they may rush the crane inspection and cause an issue to get overlooked. Thorough safety inspections are essential to prevent crane accidents, and a failure to conduct proper inspections could result in liability for your injuries.
Dealing with the aftermath of a crane accident can be overwhelming. You deserve time to focus on recovery instead of worrying about meeting New York’s deadline (typically three-years but far shorter in a number of circumstances) to file your claim. With representation from our award-winning lawyers at Lever & Ecker, PLLC, you do not have to go through the process alone. We can manage all elements of your claim effectively and efficiently, including negotiating with insurance companies.
While we do everything we can to settle your claim out of court, we have the litigation skills to go to trial if necessary. With our over 65 years of combined legal experience, you can trust us to handle your claim with the care and attention you deserve. We are here when you need us at any hour of the day to answer all your questions and keep you informed about your claim’s progress. To schedule a complimentary consultation and discuss your crane accident, call (914) 288-9191 or (718) 933-3632. You can also fill out our contact form.