Legal•Info

Crane Accidents Overview

Introduction
Throughout history construction sites have been, without question, workplaces in which serious dangers become everyday realities. With the evolution of heavy machinery came increased risks, too. While accidents at construction sites are often the result of a careless worker, many occur due to negligence on the part of the employer, supervisor, or machine manufacturer. As it relates to crane accidents, negligence can prove to be seriously detrimental.

There are multiple lawsuits ongoing on the subject of crane accident and injury every year. Because of the rise in workplace injuries and fatalities, many companies, especially in the field of construction, now have mandatory safety training sessions that workers are required to attend. Within these safety sessions, a number of different issues are discussed; the goal of the sessions is to create a workforce that has a better overall awareness of issues relating to safety.

The problem with these training sessions is that they are not exhaustive enough and do not go into specific fields. For instance, a welder will not benefit from crane safety, so the training session is much more generalized, leaving out important information.

Crane Accidents
A crane is a device used in construction yards or on active construction sites. A crane can come in many different sizes, from smaller ones that can be used indoors, to much larger ones that help piece skyscrapers together. Cranes are very versatile and are most commonly seen in or around construction sites. Operating cranes is a specialist body of knowledge, requiring a driver or operator to be certified in order to be done safely, correctly, and legally.

Crane accidents have happened in the past, and they will continue to happen in the future. A crane accident could be anything from accidental release and dropping of the item being carried onto someone below to sudden stoppage causing whiplash of the item being carried and injuring a bystander or operator. Anything from an emotional shock all the way up to death can occur from a crane accident.

Coping
Coping with an injury that has come about as the result of a crane accident can be one of the most difficult things for a person to do. At the same time, it is also important that you get through this point and start some serious introspection as to the cause of the accident. You need to be aware of the facts surrounding the accident and ask yourself a few questions: Could you have done something to prevent the accident, or was it due to the carelessness of someone else? Depending on the conclusion you reach, you might end up taking legal action against your employer or the manufacturer of the crane itself.

Legalities
If you are considering taking legal action against your employer or anyone else related to the accident, the best thing to do is to get in contact with a lawyer as soon as possible. Try to find a lawyer who specializes in cases like yours, such as a personal injury lawyer or workers' rights attorney. Many states have laws limiting the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit following a workplace injury. You will need to give your lawyer time to adequately prepare your case for you, including time to launch an investigation for evidence and witnesses. When you meet with your lawyer, explain the situation in complete detail to him or her. They should be able to tell you what you're facing and guide you through the complicated process. A lawyer is your best bet for getting your life back on track and receiving the compensation you deserve.