Crane Accidents
Cranes are critical in construction, maritime transportation, the oil and gas industry, and more. While they are crucial to moving heavy loads, cranes can also be dangerous to operate and work around. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 297 crane-related deaths between 2011 and 2017. Florida was the second worst state, behind Texas, for crane deaths. For those who do survive a crane-related accident, the injuries can be severe and will likely result in a long recovery period or permanent disability. This is why it is important that you seek legal counsel from our firm.
Causes of Crane Accidents
- Suddenly dropped loads;
- Swinging loads;
- Trying to hoist loads that are beyond the crane’s capacity;
- Boom comes into contact with a power line;
- Boom collapse;
- Hook-lifting device failures;
- Crane tipping due to improper outrigger positioning;
- Operating the crane in poor weather conditions;
- Operating the crane too quickly; and
- More.
Crane Accidents are Preventable
Safety should always be the number one priority at a work site that includes crane operation. To begin with, only qualified personnel who have a certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators or an equivalent training program. There are also certifications for signal persons and crane inspectors. Cranes should be inspected prior to beginning operations. Parts such as the cables should be examined for signs of wear that might cause them to break or shear under the load. Furthermore, the load itself should be inspected to make sure it is properly secured before being lifted. Once a load is lifted into the air all personnel should keep a safe distance from the crane so that they do not risk injury from the load or the crane itself. When shortcuts are taken in setting up the crane, inspecting the crane’s components, or securing the load, injuries are more likely to occur.
Crane-Related Injuries
Victims of crane-related accidents often need to be rushed to emergency care and the expenses do not stop there. Surgeries, medical treatments, physical therapy, and the need for medical devices all increase the cost of a crane-related injury. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones;
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Electrocution;
- Amputations;
- Organ damage; and
- Death.
Some victims will not make a full recovery. A compensation claim will need to take into account their disability and how it impacts their future earning potential, their ability to take care of themselves, and the emotional distress of being disfigured or disabled. For families who have lost a loved one in a crane-related accident, they deal with loss of companionship, loss of income, and the burden of funeral costs. A personal injury attorney will be able to collect all of the necessary documentation to prove what the claim is worth.
Let Us Help You Today
If you have suffered a crane-related injury on a job site, it is important that you seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney. The trusted attorneys at the office of Mark H. Wright, PLLC will advocate on your behalf to ensure that your workers’ compensation claim is accepted and you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 813-425-2020 to schedule a free consultation today.
