Causes and Prevention of Harmful Crane Collapse Accidents
The construction industry in the United States has injury and fatality rates significantly higher than 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 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 well-trained professionals operate cranes, unfortunately, there are times when using cranes results in injury, permanent disability, or even death.
Crane Collapse Accidents
Cranes of varying sizes are used in many construction projects to move materials or personnel into otherwise unreachable positions. Following safety protocols is imperative from small truck-based cranes to massive fixed cranes. If a general manager fails to inspect a crane before it’s used properly, 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
Several factors 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 must 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 near 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.