Managing Partner
Cranes are among the most powerful and complex machines found on a job site. When used correctly, they make large-scale construction possible. But when something goes wrong, the results can be catastrophic for both the workers operating them and for people nearby.
Below, we’ll look at the leading causes of crane accidents, the types of injuries that can result, and the legal options available if you or a loved one has been hurt.
Major Causes of Crane Accidents
While every crane accident is unique, investigations often reveal a handful of recurring factors:
1. Operator Error
Even experienced operators can make mistakes under pressure. Misjudging load weight, moving the crane too quickly, or failing to secure the load can all lead to tipping, falling objects, or collisions.
2. Mechanical Failures
Worn-out parts, hydraulic malfunctions, or faulty brakes can cause a crane to fail suddenly. Regular inspections are supposed to catch these issues, but when maintenance is neglected, the risk of an accident increases dramatically.
3. Improper Assembly or Setup
Cranes must be assembled and balanced according to strict specifications. Setting up on uneven ground, failing to secure stabilizers, or ignoring load capacity limits can cause the crane to collapse or overturn.
4. Falling Loads
Improperly rigged or overloaded cranes may drop their cargo. Falling loads can strike workers below or even people walking near the site, causing devastating injuries.
5. Electrical Hazards
Cranes working near overhead power lines are at risk of electrocution accidents. If a boom or cable makes contact with a live wire, operators and ground crew can suffer severe electrical burns or death.
6. Weather Conditions
High winds, lightning, and heavy rain can make crane operations dangerous. Poor visibility and unstable conditions increase the likelihood of an accident, yet some projects proceed despite unsafe weather conditions.
7. Violations of Safety Standards
OSHA and, in California, Cal/OSHA regulations set strict rules for crane operation. When employers cut corners to save time or money, workers and bystanders pay the price.
Common Injuries in Crane Accidents
Cranes are capable of lifting tens of thousands of pounds, so when something goes wrong, the human body often cannot withstand the force involved. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from falling objects or being struck by a moving crane component
- Spinal cord injuries that may result in paralysis
- Crush injuries from being pinned between the crane and another object
- Severe fractures requiring surgery and long-term rehabilitation
- Electrical burns and internal injuries from power line contact
- Amputations caused by mechanical entanglement or crushing
Whether you’re a worker on-site or a passerby, these injuries can change your life in an instant. Recovery often requires extended medical care, time away from work, and ongoing therapy.
Legal Options for Victims
Your legal rights after a crane accident depend on your role and the circumstances of the accident.
For Construction Workers
If you were injured while working, you are typically entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These can cover:
- Medical bills related to your injury
- Partial wage replacement during recovery
- Disability benefits if you cannot return to work
Workers’ comp is usually your first avenue for recovery, but it does not cover pain and suffering. In some cases, you may also have a third-party personal injury claim against someone other than your employer, for example, a negligent equipment manufacturer or subcontractor.
For Bystanders or Non-Employees
If you were injured as a pedestrian, driver, or nearby resident, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party. Depending on the cause, this might include the construction company, crane operator, or equipment manufacturer.
OSHA and Cal/OSHA Violations
Evidence of safety violations can strengthen your case. If the accident resulted from ignored regulations, missing safety equipment, or unqualified operators, this can be a critical factor in proving negligence.
What to Do After a Crane Accident
Taking the right steps after an accident can help protect your health and your legal rights:
- Get medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor at first.
- Report the incident to the appropriate authority — your employer if you’re a worker, or the police/construction site manager if you’re a bystander.
- Document everything by taking photos of the crane, the site, and your injuries.
- Gather witness contact information while the details are fresh.
- Speak to an attorney before giving a statement to insurance companies.
How We Can Help
At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we represent both construction workers and bystanders who have been seriously injured in crane accidents. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents cause, and we fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crane accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and stand by your side every step of the way.