It is a wonder to marvel at the giant cranes and aerial lifts used in our construction industry. Cranes and lifts allow workers to reach great heights and lift heavy construction materials. Without cranes and aerial lifts, we could not construct bridges, buildings, and roads or repair power lines. While these construction machines are handy, they can also lead to harm and even death.
Our law firm is currently handling lawsuits on behalf of individuals injured by aerial lifts and cranes. This heavy construction machinery has wounded both workers and pedestrians.
There are various types of cranes used in construction for different purposes. Cranes usually fall into two categories: mobile cranes and fixed cranes. Mobile cranes are mounted on vehicles to travel to and navigate job sites. Fixed cranes are stationary and can lift heavier loads and reach taller places. While both cranes are common construction fixtures, this equipment can cause major accidents. Crane accidents include:
Aerial lifts are mobile elevating work platforms. Today, the work industry prefers aerial lifts to ladders and scaffolding. Aerial lifts can move vertically, horizontally, and even rotate. Electricians, orchard workers, construction workers, and window washers use aerial lifts. Like cranes, aerial lifts can result in considerable accidents. Aerial lift accidents include:
Such massive and heavy machinery can cause severe and often fatal damage. Between 2011 and 2014, the CDC reported that aerial lifts injured 1,380 workers and killed 87 workers. The Center for Construction Research and Training identified 632 crane-related worker deaths between 1992 and 2006. Crane and aerial lift accidents do not only affect workers. Pedestrians and passersby can also suffer the consequences. This sizeable piece of equipment can generate sweeping damage that extends beyond the worksite. A crane or aerial lift malfunction threatens anyone nearby, not just those operating or directly on the worksite. Injuries related to cranes and aerial lifts include, but are not limited to:
Faulty design or manufacturing may account for crane and aerial lift accidents. For example, some insulated aerial lifts contain a critical design defect that may cause electrocution. Operators manage the aerial lifts through an uninsulated control handle. If the boom tip of the insulated aerial lift touches an energized line, this can electrocute the worker.
Contractor and worksite neglect can result in crane and aerial lift accidents. A worksite may use the crane outside its designed specifications, causing it to fall over or drop materials. Or the worksite can improperly set up a crane, which may result in a catastrophic incident.
There have been multiple successful crane and aerial lift injury lawsuits. A jury awarded a Texas worker $19 million after an aerial lift accident. A design defect stalled the controls and forced the man to climb down the lift. He subsequently fell 25 feet and injured his legs. In 2022, victims and families of the 2019 Seattle crane collapse received a $150 million settlement. The improper disassembly of the crane caused four injuries and four deaths. Also, in May 2022, an Oregon aerial lift worker received $3.35 million after a defective aerial lift fractured his spine and injured his knees and shoulders. These are just some examples of favorable verdicts for crane and aerial lift claimants.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries because of crane and aerial lift-related accidents, you may be entitled to a crane and aerial lift injury lawsuit. A crane and aerial lift injury lawsuit can help you recover compensation for:
We understand that financial reparations cannot make amends for the wrongdoings you endured. But, a lawsuit against the responsible parties is an impactful step in rebuilding your life. Also, a lawsuit against careless companies or worksites may help prevent future crane and aerial lift accidents.
The Lake Law Firm was founded by Edward J. Lake, Esq., a personal injury lawyer for over 25 years. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who have suffered injury or death due to the negligence of others. Our experienced attorneys handle many different types of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and other defective products. The lawyers in our firm have helped collect millions of dollars for their clients. The Lake Law Firm will advocate for you and your rights. Please contact us for a free confidential case evaluation at (888) 525-3529 or submit an inquiry on this page.