Causes and Prevention of Harmful Crane Collapse Accidents
The construction industry in the United States has injury and fatality rates that are significantly higher than those in other U.S. industries. Crane accidents account for more than one-third of all construction accidents.
A crane is a general word for a type of machine that can be used to hoist and transport various materials. Cranes can accomplish seemingly impossible feats and are relied upon for most construction projects. Crane operators are well-trained to control such heavy machinery. Although cranes are operated by well-trained professionals, unfortunately, there are times when the use of cranes results in injury, permanent disability, or even death.
Crane Collapse Accidents
Cranes of varying sizes are used in many different construction projects to move materials or personnel into positions that are otherwise unreachable. From small truck-based cranes to massive fixed cranes, following safety protocols is imperative. If a general manager fails to properly inspect a crane before it’s used, a defect that should have been caught may cause the vehicle to collapse. When this occurs, any bystanders or construction workers near the crane can be severely injured.
If you or someone you love has sustained an injury in a crane collapse accident, there may be legal options available to pursue financial compensation for the costs associated with those injuries. For more information about this compensation and how it may be able to help, contact a New York City construction accident lawyer of Hach & Rose, LLP, today at (212) 779-0057.
Causes of Crane Collapses
There are a number of factors that can increase the chances of crane accidents, such as equipment malfunction, lightning, high winds, defective parts, failure of boom/cable, tip-overs, overhead obstructions, electrocution, and falls. Due to its size and complex mechanical framework, even the simplest flaw within a crane’s construction can result in a catastrophic accident, regardless of the experience of its operator.
There are several concerns that a general manager at a construction site should address before a crane is used. The following should be inspected for and fixed before any crane begins working on a construction site:
- Loose or damaged connectors
- Damaged or overly worn cables and pulleys
- Malfunctioning stabilizers
- Bent, rusted, or broken support beams
Before any heavy machinery, such as a crane, is used on a construction project, it should be carefully inspected for these and other dangerous defects or damaged parts. If any problems are found, they need to be addressed promptly before the crane goes into operation.
Many crane accidents can be avoided with proper training and safety procedures. As such, it is imperative to establish a crane safety plan for each lift, which often includes the designation of a competent person to oversee crane operations and who has the authority to stop unsafe operations. During construction, the well-being of people working on or in the vicinity of a crane is the most important consideration.
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A crane collapse accident can cause widespread injuries, leaving those affected with significant medical bills and out-of-pocket costs. However, compensation for these expenses may be available through a personal injury lawsuit. To learn more about these legal actions, contact a New York construction accident attorney of Hach & Rose, LLP, today by calling (212) 779-0057.