Cranes are the heavy lifters on construction sites. They make tough jobs look easy, and these big machines are so powerful, that if safety rules get ignored, they can be very dangerous. When something goes out of control, and a crane collapses, it’s a recipe for disaster. Workers and bystanders can get seriously hurt.
Cranes pose a great risk to pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and workers if proper safety protocols are not adhered to. Construction sites present a vast range of potential injury scenarios, with OSHA reporting they account for one in five fatal workplace accidents. And in their most recent analysis on crane accidents, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that an average of 44 people die in crane-related accidents in the U.S. each year.
If you’re dealing with the legal side of a crane collapse, and looking for a construction accident lawyer in Georgia, our team at Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC is at your disposal. We’ll help you and your family explore every avenue for compensation from a personal injury claim, ensuring that justice is not just served but fully realized.
The Reasons Behind Crane Collapse
Crane incidents can occur due to several factors:
- Equipment Malfunction – Sometimes, the crane itself might have a problem. It could be a mechanical issue, a malfunctioning part, or a lack of proper maintenance.
- Operator Error – Mistakes or errors of judgment by the crane operator can lead to accidents. These can include improper handling, miscommunication, or not following safety protocols.
- Weather Conditions – Weather can be unpredictable, and adverse conditions like strong winds, heavy rain, or snow can destabilize cranes.
- Structural Issues – The stability of the structure where the crane is set up is crucial. If the support structure is weak, unstable, or improperly constructed, it can lead to a collapse when the crane is in operation.
Identifying the root cause of a crane collapse is essential in determining accountability. It’s a vital step in the legal process that follows such accidents.
Legal Repercussions
Who’s held at fault for a crane collapse has substantial implications for the legal consequences that follow. Several parties might be in the spotlight for a crane collapse, including: construction companies, crane operators, crane manufacturers, and site owners.
Legal Consequences: When a party is found responsible for a crane collapse, they may face a range of legal repercussions, including:
- Civil Actions: Injured parties or their families can file lawsuits seeking compensation for damages. These may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Criminal Actions: In cases of negligence or recklessness, criminal charges may also be filed against the responsible party. Criminal penalties can include fines and even imprisonment.
Crane accidents can give rise to substantial opportunities for legal action. If you or a loved one have suffered personal injury from a crane collapse, it’s important that you get legal representation to fully explore your avenues for compensation and justice.
Role of a Construction Accident Lawyer
Construction sites carry numerous risks for personal injuries and are subject to a myriad of local, state and federal regulations designed to protect your safety and wellbeing. Accidents on construction sites are therefore typically legally complex, and can give rise to substantial opportunities for legal action. This is especially the case where you suspect inaction on the part of an employer contributed to unsafe working conditions, and to an accident in which you were injured. Construction accident lawyers serve to fully explore these opportunities for their clients, ensuring justice is served and avenues for compensation are fully realized.
While some construction workers have the protection of Georgia’s workers’ compensation system, note that contractors and subcontractors are not always covered. Additionally, in situations where workers’ compensation is an option, it may not necessarily be the most suitable choice. These are just some reasons why it’s advisable to consult with a knowledgeable construction accident lawyer in Georgia. Personal injury attorneys play a crucial role in guiding you through the complexities of your situation and in helping you determine the best course of action for compensation.
Let Us Represent You in Georgia
When it comes to picking a personal injury lawyer, experience matters. At Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC we know the ins and outs of construction site accidents and we have a track record of getting results. See our impressive list of verdicts and settlements.
You need a personal accident lawyer who will put time and resources into your case. If you have been injured on a construction site in Atlanta, Savannah, Columbus, Decatur, or surrounding areas of Georgia, call Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC at 470-380-0582, or schedule a risk and cost-free case evaluation online. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys await your call.