Crane accidents on New York City construction sites are among the most catastrophic, often resulting in multiple severe injuries, permanent disabilities, or tragic fatalities. When these powerful machines malfunction, collapse, or are operated negligently, the consequences for workers and bystanders are devastating. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crane accident, you may have the right to pursue justice and substantial compensation. 

At Hach & Rose, LLP, our experienced New York crane accident lawyers are dedicated advocates for victims of construction site negligence. Over the past 25 years of experience, our firm has secured over one billion dollars in compensation for injured New Yorkers. We understand the complexities of crane accident litigation and are prepared to fight tirelessly to help you rebuild your life.

Why Choose Hach & Rose, LLP After a Crane Accident?

Selecting the right legal team is extremely important after a severe crane accident. Hach & Rose, LLP, offers a distinct advantage through our proven results, deep legal experience, and unwavering commitment to every client.

Proven Results in Complex Construction Cases

Our firm has a successful track record of achieving multimillion-dollar outcomes for construction accident victims. These results include securing a $3.2 million verdict for a construction worker who was struck by a falling object, a scenario frequently associated with crane operations. We consistently achieve some of the largest settlements and jury verdicts in New York, demonstrating our ability to handle high-stakes, complex litigation.

Unwavering Commitment to Trial

Insurance companies often try to undervalue severe injury claims. Unlike many other firms, Hach & Rose, LLP, prepares every crane accident case as if it will go to trial. This proactive approach ensures we are always ready to aggressively litigate on your behalf, compelling insurance companies to offer fairer settlements or taking them to court to secure the full compensation you deserve. Our commitment to trial has a proven track record of turning inadequate offers into substantial verdicts.

Deep Understanding of Crane Accident Laws

Crane accidents involve intricate federal and state regulations, including Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) standards and specific New York Labor Laws. Our attorneys possess extensive experience navigating these complex legal frameworks, particularly Labor Law Sections 200, 241(6), and even 240, which may apply depending on the nature of your accident. We thoroughly investigate every detail to identify all liable parties.

Client-Focused Representation

We pride ourselves on diligence, integrity, and a strong commitment to our clients. You will receive personalized attention, clear legal guidance, and consistent communication throughout your case. We work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

No Fees Unless We Win

Understanding the immense financial strain many people experience following a severe injury, Hach & Rose, LLP, operates on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only collect a fee if we successfully secure a settlement or verdict award for your case. If we do not win, you owe us nothing for our services.

Free and Confidential Consultation

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your New York crane accident. This is your opportunity to ask questions to understand your legal rights and options without any financial commitment. Contact us today at (212) 779-0057.

Common Causes of Crane Accidents in New York

Crane accidents are rarely “accidents” in the true sense; they are almost always the result of negligence, design flaws, or a failure to adhere to strict safety protocols. Our investigations into crane incidents commonly uncover these causes of crane accidents:

Equipment Malfunctions or Defects

Cranes and their components can fail due to manufacturing defects, poor maintenance, or mechanical breakdown. This includes issues with cables, pulleys, hoisting mechanisms, hydraulics, or control systems.

Operator Error

Despite extensive training, operator negligence or inexperience can lead to accidents. This includes improper signaling, lifting loads beyond capacity, swinging loads unsafely, or failing to properly secure the crane.

Improper Setup or Instability

Cranes must be set up on stable, level ground. Accidents can occur if the ground is uneven, the crane’s outriggers are not properly extended, or the counterweights are incorrectly balanced, leading to tip-overs.

Overloading

Attempting to lift loads exceeding the crane’s rated capacity is a leading cause of collapse or tip-overs. This often stems from miscalculating load weight or ignoring safety limits.

High Winds or Adverse Weather

Strong winds, heavy rain, or other severe weather conditions can destabilize cranes, especially larger tower cranes, leading to collapses or falling debris.

Falling Objects or Loads

Even if the crane itself does not collapse, improper rigging, unsecured loads, or mechanical failures can cause heavy materials or equipment to fall, striking workers or property below.

Electrocution Hazards

Cranes making contact with overhead power lines are a serious risk, leading to severe electrocution injuries or fatalities for operators and ground workers.

Lack of Proper Inspections and Maintenance

Regular, thorough inspections and maintenance are critical. Accidents often occur because loose or damaged connectors, worn cables, malfunctioning stabilizers, or bent support beams were not identified and addressed.

New York Laws Protecting Crane Accident Victims

New York has strict laws governing construction site safety, which are vital in crane accident litigation. Our New York crane accident attorneys utilize these statutes to hold negligent parties accountable:

New York Labor Law Section 200

This general safety statute requires property owners and general contractors to provide a safe workplace. It applies when they have the authority to supervise or control the work that caused the accident and had notice of the dangerous condition leading to the crane incident.

New York Labor Law Section 241(6)

This section mandates that owners and contractors ensure all areas where construction work is performed are constructed, operated, and conducted to provide reasonable and adequate protection for workers. It requires adherence to specific industrial code rules relevant to crane operations, hoisting, and demolition.

New York Labor Law Section 240 (“Scaffold Law”)

While primarily for falls, Section 240 can apply to crane accidents where a worker falls from a height on a crane or is struck by an object falling from a crane due to inadequate safety devices. This law imposes strict liability on owners and general contractors for gravity-related injuries.

Catastrophic Injuries from Crane Accidents

Crane accidents typically result in severe, life-altering, and often fatal injuries due to the immense weight and force involved. We are dedicated to securing comprehensive compensation for all damages stemming from such catastrophic events.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

The impact from a crane collapse or falling object can cause severe TBIs, leading to permanent cognitive impairments, memory loss, speech difficulties, and personality changes, often requiring lifelong care.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Crushing injuries or falls from crane components can result in partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and permanent loss of mobility, significantly impacting independence and quality of life.

Amputations

Workers may suffer the loss of limbs due to crushing injuries from falling crane parts or loads, requiring extensive medical care, prosthetics, and rehabilitation.

Crushing Injuries

Being pinned or crushed by crane components or falling debris can lead to severe internal organ damage, multiple fractures, and complex injuries requiring extensive surgeries and long-term recovery.

Electrocution Injuries

Contact with power lines can cause severe burns, nerve damage, internal organ damage, brain damage, or immediate fatality.

Wrongful Death

Sadly, many crane accidents are fatal. In such heartbreaking cases, our firm helps families pursue wrongful death claims to alleviate financial burdens and seek justice for their lost loved one.

What Damages Can I Request After a New York Crane Accident?

After a New York crane accident, depending on your specific situation, you may request compensation for a wide range of losses, both economic and non-economic. 

Economic damages cover tangible financial losses, including past and future medical expenses, such as hospital stays, surgeries, therapies, and medications. They also encompass lost wages due to time off work and any reduction in your future earning capacity. 

Non-economic damages address intangible losses like physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, and the loss of enjoyment of life. In cases resulting in disfigurement or permanent scarring, compensation can also be sought for these profound impacts. 

Our goal is to ensure your claim reflects the full scope of your damages, both immediate and long-term. We work with medical and financial experts to ensure we request all possible forms of compensation in your crane accident demand.

How to Maximize Compensation for Your Crane Accident Claim

After a crane accident, proactive action, including finding legal counsel quickly, is crucial to protecting your rights and maximizing your potential financial recovery.

Consider these vital steps:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health. Get evaluated by a medical professional right away, even if injuries seem minor. Medical documentation is critical supporting evidence for your case.
• Report the Accident Promptly: Notify your supervisor and ensure the incident is formally documented. This supports both workers’ compensation and potential personal injury claims.
• Preserve Evidence: If safe, take photos or videos of the scene, hazardous conditions, the crane, and your visible injuries. Collect witness information.
• Document All Expenses: Keep detailed records of all medical bills, prescription costs, rehabilitation expenses, transportation, and proof of lost wages.
• Avoid Talking to the Insurance Company: Insurers aim to minimize payouts. Do not give recorded statements or sign documents without first consulting an attorney. Direct all communications to your legal representative.
• Contact Our Skilled New York Crane Accident Law Firm Immediately: Seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is paramount. Our attorneys will guide you through every stage, protecting your rights and pursuing all recovery opportunities.

How Hach & Rose, LLP, Builds Your Crane Accident Claim

The aftermath of a crane accident can be a daunting journey. At Hach & Rose, LLP, we lighten your burden by handling every facet of your injury claim, enabling you to focus entirely on your recovery.

Our commitment to your case involves:

• Identifying All Responsible Parties: We leave no stone unturned in our comprehensive investigation, pinpointing everyone accountable for your accident, from the crane’s owner and operator to the general contractor, site supervisors, and equipment manufacturers.
• Building an Ironclad Case with Evidence: Our team systematically gathers and analyzes all crucial evidence, including accident reports, witness accounts, maintenance and inspection logs, operator certifications, crucial black box data, photographic and video evidence, and expert testimony, to construct a powerful argument on your behalf.
• Shielding You from Insurers: We take charge of all communications and negotiations with insurance companies. Our goal is to protect you from their tactics designed to minimize or outright deny your rightful claim.
• Navigating Legal Timeframes: We meticulously track and adhere to all legal deadlines, including statutes of limitations for personal injury lawsuits and workers’ compensation claims, ensuring your rights are never jeopardized by missed deadlines.
• Relentless Pursuit of Full Compensation: Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation, we aggressively work to recover the maximum financial compensation for all your economic damages (like medical bills and lost earnings) and non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering and lost quality of life).
• Providing Steadfast Support: Throughout your legal journey, we offer honest, compassionate, and expert legal guidance. We keep you fully informed and supported, ensuring you understand each step as we move toward securing your justice.

New York Crane Accident FAQs

What are my rights if I am a union worker injured in a crane accident?

As a union worker, you have specific protections and rights when injured on the job. Hach & Rose, LLP, has a strong history of representing union members and understanding the unique aspects of their cases. We ensure that your collective bargaining agreements and specific legal protections are considered when pursuing your claim, aiming to secure the full compensation you deserve while protecting your union standing.

Can undocumented workers file a claim after a New York crane accident?

Yes. In New York, your immigration status does not prevent you from pursuing a personal injury claim for a construction accident, including a crane accident. New York law protects all workers who are injured due to negligence, regardless of their immigration status. Our firm has experience representing undocumented laborers, and our Spanish-speaking staff is ready to assist you in understanding your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Hablamos español y estamos aquí para ayudarle.

How long does a crane accident lawsuit typically take in New York?

The duration of a crane accident lawsuit in New York can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, the number of liable parties, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases may resolve within a year or two, while more complex cases, especially those involving severe injuries or multiple defendants, can take several years. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you efficiently, whether through settlement or trial.

What if the crane accident was caused by a third party, not my direct employer?

Many crane accidents involve the negligence of third parties beyond your direct employer, such as the crane owner (if different from your employer), the general contractor, a subcontractor, or the crane manufacturer. In such cases, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against these third parties in addition to pursuing workers’ compensation. This type of lawsuit allows for recovery of a broader range of damages, including pain and suffering, which is not typically covered by workers’ compensation.

What should I do if an insurance company contacts me after a crane accident?

If an insurance company, especially one representing the construction company or crane operator, contacts you, you should be very cautious. Their goal is usually to minimize their payout. Do not give a recorded statement, sign any medical releases, or accept any settlement offers without first consulting our experienced crane accident team. 

Hach & Rose, LLP: Your New York Crane Accident Legal Advocates

A crane accident can instantly change your life, leading to severe injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and significant lost income. You need a knowledgeable and dedicated legal team to advocate for your rights and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to.

At Hach & Rose, LLP, our mission is to help crane accident victims rebuild their lives. We manage every detail of your case, from initial investigation to settlement or trial, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being. With our proven track record, deep legal expertise, and unwavering commitment to client success, you’ll have the confidence of knowing your claim is in highly capable hands.

Take the first step toward justice. Do not delay. Contact Hach & Rose, LLP, today for a free and confidential consultation with an experienced New York crane accident lawyer. Call us now at (212) 779-0057 or complete our secure online contact form. Let us fight to secure the compensation and justice you deserve.