Cranes are an integral part of the construction industry. These large, tall machines move heavy objects by suspending them in the air with a projecting beam. While cranes are vital pieces of industrial machinery, they can also be dangerous. When construction companies or workers fail to follow proper safety protocols, Personal Injuries or even accidental death can result.

At Montlick Injury Attorneys, our workers’ compensation attorneys understand that construction accidents are among the most serious of all accidents. Employees within the construction industry face the possibility of falls, crush injuries, falling object injuries and much more. We fight to see that our injured clients receive the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve.

Crane Accident Statistics

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were at least 72 crane-related fatal accidents in 2006. This figure was down from 2003 to 2005 when there was an average of 78 deaths a year. More recent data suggests, however, that the rate of crane accidents is again on the rise.

Below is a look at some of the most common injuries suffered in crane accidents:

  • Head injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Electrocution
  • Crush injuries
  • Amputations
  • Death

Crane injuries will usually result when a worker is struck by an object on the crane or an one that has fallen off of it. Crane operators can also sustain injuries, and bystanders are at risk of falling objects when passing through a construction zone.

Causes of Crane Accidents

Adequately training employees and closely following proper safety guidelines can prevent many crane accidents. Cranes are some of the largest and heaviest pieces of equipment at a construction site and therefore contribute to more accidents overall. Crane accidents can be caused by, among others:

  • Debris on or around the crane
  • Improper crane selection
  • Improper crane setup
  • Failure to use the crane according to the manufacturer’s specifications
  • Bad weather

Compensation for Crane Accident Related Damages

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a crane accident, you should be eligible to seek compensation for your damages. Those injured in a crane accident could incur hefty medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. If you are an employee injured in a crane accident, you could be eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are available to injured employees and will usually include partial coverage for lost wages as well as payment of medical expenses. You can also seek compensation against a third party in a personal injury action, if it is shown that another person or company other than your employer is responsible. Your attorney will examine the facts of your case and advise you more fully as to your rights.

Source:
CraneAccidents.com – Crane Related Occupational Fatalities and Statistics (Downloads PDF file)