Oklahoma City Crane Accident Attorneys
Like all construction hazards, crane accidents can be prevented as long as employers, workers, and the crane manufacturers exercise their duty of care and follow safety protocols. Unfortunately, hundreds are injured or killed in crane accidents every year because some companies cut corners for the sake of profit, and workers and their families pay the price.
If you have suffered considerable losses in a crane accident that was caused by the negligence of the construction company or another party, such as the manufacturer, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Consult with knowledgeable OKC accident lawyer Ray Maples to learn more about your rights and legal options. He can answer any of your questions in a free consultation. Call us today at (405) 883-4487.
Common Causes of Crane Accidents
The elements that make up a safe construction site include well-trained employees, functional machinery and equipment, and general vigilance on the part of employees and their employer. If any of these elements are missing, devastating incidents, such as crane accidents, can occur as a result.
Most crane accidents are caused by:
- Failure to follow manufacturer specifications while operating the crane
- Improper crane selection
- Debris and other hazards in the proximity of the crane
- Adverse weather conditions
- Improper crane set up
- Faulty machinery
- Defective manufacturing
The Responsibilities of Employers
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces certain regulations in the construction industry for safety purposes and employers are expected to comply. These regulations include the following:
- If power lines on or around the site are still energized, cranes must be operated only in areas with safe minimum clearance.
- If the crane operator finds it difficult to maintain safe clearance by visual means, designate another employee to observe and facilitate the clearance.
- Cage-type boom guards, insulating links, and proximity warning devices are not substitutes for de-energized lines or safe clearance.
- Electrical distribution and transmission lines should be de-energized and grounded at the point of work.
- Separate insulated barriers should be used to protect the crane from contact with the lines.
Operators aren’t the only ones at risk in a crane accident. Non-crane operators, such as mechanics, ironworkers, riggers, and stevedores, may also suffer serious or even fatal injuries in an incident.
The Responsibilities of Manufacturers
In the event that the crane itself is inherently defective, whether through negligent assembly or careless design, the company responsible for manufacturing the crane may be held accountable for resulting accidents. For example, the crane manufacturing company must thoroughly test each design for dangers to ensure that it is safe for use on a construction site. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for manufacturers and distributors to rush the design and assembly of their products for the sake of getting it out on the market.
A single manufacturing error, negligent safety inspection, or design problem can have devastating consequences. It is important to remember that the company providing the defective crane is liable for any injuries or death caused by using their product. A skilled attorney can investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine whether a designer, manufacturer or distributor may be accountable.
Reliable Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Oklahoma
Attorney Ray Maples handles difficult construction accident cases for clients who have been injured while performing their job duties. Mr. Maples has the knowledge to fight for your rights and recover damages for your suffering. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.