New York Crane Accident Lawyer

A crane is a massive piece of heavy construction equipment that can measure more than 100 feet tall and weight over 4000 tons. Cranes are generally equipped with a hoist rope, wire ropes or chains, and sheaves that can be used both to lift and lower heavy materials and to move them horizontally. A construction accident that involves a crane is one of the more serious types of construction accidents. When work is done at an elevation, underground or with heavy machinery such as a crane there is a substantial risk of injury. Injuries commonly experienced as a result of a crane accident can include broke bones, amputation, head injuries, and back injuries. If you have experienced a crane injury, speak with a New York crane accident lawyer from Stephen Bilkis & Associates. We can help you receive just compensation for your injuries including reimbursement for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income.

Crane safety is of paramount importance in the construction industry, given the potential for devastating accidents. Despite the existence of state and federal laws, as well as industry regulations, crane accidents continue to occur each year, resulting in injuries and fatalities. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established stringent regulations to prevent serious crane accidents, and adherence to these regulations is crucial for ensuring a safe working environment.

One of the most common causes of crane accidents is when a crane comes into contact with power lines, accounting for 40% of all crane accidents. This type of incident can lead to electrocution and fatalities. Other causes of crane accidents include rigging failures, mechanical malfunctions, falling debris or dropped objects, improper loading of materials, poor ground conditions, operator error, and boom collapse. Lack of communication, inadequate training, unstable crane conditions, and insufficient safety precautions are often contributing factors in crane accidents. Additionally, inadequate safety harnesses and improperly reinforced walls in underground projects can also result in crane-related injuries.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2017 alone, there were 33 crane-related fatalities. Over the period from 1992 to 2010, crane-related fatalities averaged 78 deaths per year, highlighting the seriousness of these accidents. These statistics emphasize the need for strict adherence to safety regulations and the importance of seeking legal representation from an experienced New York crane accident lawyer.

In order to prevent crane accidents, OSHA has implemented specific rules and guidelines that employees must follow. These include designating a person to observe the proper clearance if a crane cannot maintain a safe visual clearance. Workers are prohibited from using cage-type boom guards or proximity warning devices as substitutes for grounded and de-energizing lines, such as insulating links. Electrical and transmission lines must be free from electrical charge, and if they are not de-energized, cranes can only be operated at a safe distance from the lines. The use of insulated barriers to prevent contact with power lines is also required according to OSHA regulations.

If you have been involved in a crane accident or if you have questions about crane safety requirements, do not hesitate to contact an experienced crane accident attorney in New York. They can provide the necessary information, legal advice, and representation to protect your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Injuries often seen with crane accidents include:

• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Back injuries
• Neck injuries
• Broken bones
• Shoulder injuries

The recovery from such a serious injury can be expensive and lengthy. A crane injury victim may even learn that they are not able to return to work at all because the crane injury has left them permanently disabled. While coping with a painful recovery as well as the financial stress of mounting medical bills and lack of income, it may be difficult to determine what your next step should be.

If you have suffered a crane injury due to the negligence of another party, it is crucial to understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation. The course of action and the manner in which you will receive compensation depend on who is responsible for the accident. In New York, all employers are required to carry workers' compensation insurance, which provides benefits to workers injured on the job. If your employer is found to be at fault for the crane accident, you will be entitled to receive benefits through the workers' compensation system.

Workers' compensation benefits typically cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. These benefits are designed to provide immediate financial support to injured workers. However, it is important to note that workers' compensation benefits may have limitations, and they may not fully compensate you for all the damages and losses you have suffered.

In cases where the negligence or fault lies with a subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer, you may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit to seek fair compensation. A personal injury lawsuit allows you to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions or negligence. Through a personal injury lawsuit, you may be able to recover a broader range of damages, including past and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and compensation for pain and suffering.

If your loved one tragically lost their life in a crane accident, you may have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of lawsuit seeks to recover damages on behalf of the deceased individual's estate and family members. Wrongful death claims can provide compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

Navigating the legal process and pursuing a claim for a crane accident can be complex. It is essential to seek the guidance and representation of an experienced crane accident attorney in New York. They will evaluate the circumstances of your case, determine liability, gather evidence, and build a strong legal strategy on your behalf. An attorney will advocate for your rights and work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.

Remember that time limitations, known as statutes of limitations, apply to personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and preserve your right to pursue a claim. By seeking legal assistance, you can navigate the complexities of the legal system and have the best chance of receiving fair and just compensation for your crane injury or the loss of a loved one.

If you were injured in a crane accident, it is important that you are represented by an experienced New York crane accident attorney serving New York. Contact Stephen Bilkis & Associates at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent injured victims in the following locations: Westchester County, Suffolk County, Staten Island, Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan, Nassau County, and Queens.