Crane Accident Lawyer in New Jersey
In February 2023, a crane accident made the news when the machine collapsed and became entangled in power lines. It forced rescue teams to flock to the area and evacuate residents. Cranes lift and transport heavy loads and can be lethal when they fall–due to their sheer size and weight. If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a crane accident, our team at Harrell Law Firm would love to review your case. Contact us for a free consultation.
Understanding Crane Accidents
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, from 2011 to 2017, there were 297 crane-related fatalities in the United States, averaging around 42 deaths yearly. Not all accidents result in fatalities, but the high probability further illustrates the danger to workers and passersby.
Common Causes of New Jersey Crane Accidents
Operating a crane is challenging, requiring expertise, skill, and familiarity with that specific model. The difficulty likely contributes to the risk of accidents, especially if employees do not receive adequate training. Here are some additional causes:
- Operator error: Improper operation or lack of training can have devastating consequences.
- Mechanical failure: Malfunctioning equipment or parts can cause sudden and catastrophic accidents.
- Insufficient inspections: Irregular safety inspections and maintenance can result in dangerous conditions.
- Overloading: Exceeding the crane’s load capacity can make it unstable and prone to collapse or tipping over.
- Poor weather conditions: High winds, rain, and other weather-related factors can increase the likelihood of accidents
Common Injuries Resulting from Crane Accidents
Accidents involving heavy machinery tend to cause catastrophic injuries. Here are some examples of the injuries you or your loved one may face:
- Severe burns: These may result from fire, explosions, or electrocution.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Cranes can strike a person’s head with devastating force and cause brain trauma.
- Bone fractures: The weight and speed of the crane can cause broken bones and dislocations.
- Spinal cord injuries: The neck and back can be vulnerable in a collision or tip-over accident.
- Crush injuries: These accidents can cause organ damage and internal bleeding.
- Amputation: Severe crush injuries can lead to amputations.
- Soft tissue injuries: Painful sprains, strains, and tears are common in crane accidents.
These injuries are often debilitating and require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. The emotional and financial burden on victims and their families can be overwhelming.
The Importance of Hiring a New Jersey Crane Accident Lawyer
Hiring a New Jersey crane accident lawyer improves your likelihood of presenting a convincing case that maximizes your compensation. Here are some of the tasks we take on, on your behalf:
- Investigate and gather evidence. Collect evidence to establish liability and strengthen the case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies. Help ensure victims receive fair compensation from insurance providers and employers.
- Build a strong case. Present a compelling case in court or during settlement negotiations.
- Provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. We offer legal advice and emotional support during this challenging time.
Don’t let your rights go unprotected after a devastating crane accident. Trust our experienced lawyers to fight for fair compensation. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Let us be your advocates on the road to recovery and justice.
FAQs
Over the years, we have received similar questions when handling crane accident cases. Here are some of these questions and their answers. These are general answers and do not constitute legal advice.
Most crane accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. At Harrell Law Firm, we only collect a fee if we successfully obtain compensation for you. This allows you to seek legal representation without any upfront costs. State laws also limit how much of your compensation attorneys can claim as payment for legal services.
Yes, a crane accident lawyer can still help you even if you no longer work at the site or for the company. Act promptly and consult a lawyer to ensure you are within the statute of limitations for filing a claim with workers’ compensation or a third party if warranted. In addition, please inform our team whether retaliation led to you leaving the work site or being terminated.
As mentioned earlier, most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. The exact fee will depend on the lawyer and the specifics of your case. It is typically a percentage of the compensation awarded. It’s important to discuss the fee structure with the lawyer before proceeding.
