Cranes are one of the most recognizable – and most dangerous – landmarks at a construction site. With recent high-profile crane accidents peppering the front pages of magazines and newspapers, more attention than ever is being paid to these devastating accidents and the injury and financial insecurity they bring to their victims. With hundreds of thousands of cranes and crane operators working in the United States at any time, it’s high time this issue raised the attention it deserves.
What causes a crane accident? Improper or insufficient training, user error, and inadequate supervision or inspection can contribute, but often mechanical failures, rigging problems, collapses, and buckling can occur. In fact, some studies suggest that up to eleven percent of all crane accidents occur due to mechanical failure. Unfortunately, innovations in crane design and manufacture often outpace the knowledge and experience of professionals who work on construction sites and in maritime settings. Tragically, the vast majority of crane accidents could have been prevented if the workplace had been safe.
Due to the sheer size of a crane, these accidents can be devastating. Paralysis, disfigurement, broken limbs, even lifetime disability or death can occur. Other problems like electrocution or head injuries due to falling tools are also associated with cranes. Though the industry is regulated, some work sites do not aggressively practice all recommended safety strategies, leading to fatal mistakes and tragic outcomes. The victims of crane accidents aren’t just on the hook for medical treatment for their injuries. All too often, they face lifelong disability, an inability to earn a wage, and the need for psychiatric treatment.
Luckily, the victims of crane accidents in California can seek restitution from the responsible party – and Panish Shea & Boyle LLP is here to help. We’ve established a long track record of success in the personal injury field and have collected hundreds of substantial verdicts on behalf of our clients, including 100 over $1 million in value. If you’ve been injured in a crane accident, you don’t just deserve competent legal representation. You deserve aggressive, fair, and savvy representation from a firm with the reputation and track record it takes to effectively fight for you in court. If you’ve been injured, contact a Los Angeles personal injury lawyers at Panish Shea & Boyle LLP today – your case consultation is free of charge and completely confidential.
