The Dangers Facing Crane Operators and What Happens After an Accident
Crane operators face great risk of catastrophic injury. And even though crane accidents aren't always caused by negligence, more often than not, they are preventable.


December 18, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The Dangers Facing Crane Operators and What Happens After an Accident

Article provided by the Law Offices of Jeffrey I. Amtman

While workers face many dangers on construction sites, crane operators are often at risk for catastrophic injuries. In early November, a crane operator in Kansas City died after the crane he was in collapsed. In October, a crane in Philadelphia rolled over a sidewalk grate, which collapsed, hurling a worker 125 feet to the ground.

Common causes of crane accidents include:
-A boom or crane coming into contact with charged power lines
-Dropped loads
-Rigging failures

While crane accidents aren't always caused by negligence, more often than not, they are preventable. In New Jersey, operators working with cranes that have a manufacturer's rated lifting capacity of over 10 tons are required to have a state-issued license.

The Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has extensive rules noting proper practice and maintenance for crane operation. Construction is, however, an industry of deadlines and when a project falls behind schedule, safety can suffer.

Injured crane operators and accident victims often face pain and suffering, steadily increasing medical bills and decreased income from lost work time. Sometimes their injuries prevent them from getting back to work. In the worst cases, family and friends suffer the loss of a loved one.

Workers injured in crane accidents may have workers' compensation claims. But while workers' compensation provides support based on the injuries sustained, it often fails to cover all expenses or make up for lost wages.

Depending on the circumstances, those injured at work may have other claims. Important questions to consider may include:
-Was the area where the accident took place sufficiently inspected by the construction company and were proper safety measures taken?
-If contractors were involved, did the contracting company behave appropriately?
-Were proper safety measures in place regarding crane operation? For example, if the situation called for it, were spotters used to ensure safe procedure?
-Was the crane itself subject to malfunction or other shortcoming?

If you or a family member has been injured in a construction accident involving a crane, it's very important that these questions are answered. Contact an experienced New Jersey attorney, with a strong background in construction accident investigation and litigation.

Article provided by the Law Offices of Jeffrey I. Amtman
Visit us at www.jeffreyiamtman.com

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Jeffrey Amtman
Law Offices of Jeffrey I. Amtma
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