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Crane Accidents

Sycamore & DeKalb Crane Accident Lawyers

Experienced Crane Accident Lawyers: Protecting Your Rights and Fighting for Justice

Cranes are an essential part of any significant construction project. Because getting a crane set up and safely ready to use takes time, the down time for these machines can be very expensive. Unfortunately, rushing to get a crane used when it’s not safe to do so can have fatal consequences for workers.

When the unthinkable happens and you’ve lost a loved one in a crane accident, it is time to find out more about your rights from a compassionate and knowledgeable DeKalb & Sycamore crane accident lawyer. You may be entitled to a wrongful death settlement and we’ll fight to help you get it.

Have You Been Hurt in a Crane Accident?
Don’t wait contact Turner Law Group today for expert legal guidance. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve! Call us tel:(800) 653-0198 now! 

Crane Accident Statistics in America 

We Take On All Types of Crane Accident Claims

In 2019, the country had over 10,000 mobile cranes that were used at construction sites. Additionally, there were another 17,000 crane operators. When things go wrong with cranes, the impact can be devastating or even deadly.

Although construction site managers and employers are responsible for many of these accidents, workers may have to rely on a legal settlement when employers don’t do the right thing. Make no mistake; Turner Law Group is here to help and won’t back down when you’ve been seriously injured in a construction site accident.

What Are the Most Common Types of Crane Accidents?

Different types of mobile cranes work in different ways and may be used for other jobs. These differences make them prone to different types of accidents and causes of injuries.

In the end, all types of crane accidents can result in severe or even fatal injuries.

  • The most common types of mobile crane accidents in the United States include:
    • Crane collapses
    • Improper crane operation
    • Power line contact with the crane
    • Overloading the crane
    • Missing or damaged crane parts

Regardless of the type of crane or how you were injured, we are here to help. Call a Turner Law Group personal injury attorney to discuss your options.

Crane Safety Regulations and Standards

  • OSHA Regulations
    The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets specific regulations to ensure the safe operation of cranes on construction sites. These regulations aim to protect workers from crane-related accidents by establishing guidelines for crane inspections, operations, and maintenance.
  • Key regulations include:
    • Operator Certification: Operators must be properly trained and certified to handle cranes.
    • Safety Protocols: OSHA requires employers to develop safety programs that address crane operation, load limits, and the use of proper signaling and communication.
    • Site Safety: Cranes must be set up on stable ground, and clear areas must be maintained to avoid worker exposure to dangerous machinery.
  • Maintenance and Inspections
    Regular crane inspections and maintenance are critical to preventing accidents. Employers are responsible for ensuring that cranes are regularly inspected for mechanical issues, such as worn-out parts or damaged safety equipment. These inspections should be documented to ensure compliance with safety standards and help identify potential hazards before they cause an accident.

Common Causes of Crane Accidents

  • Operator Error
    Human error is one of the leading causes of crane accidents. Common mistakes include:
    • Misjudging load weight or capacity
    • Failure to follow safety procedures
    • Inadequate communication with ground personnel
  • Mechanical Failures
    Crane malfunctions, often caused by mechanical issues like worn-out cables, hydraulic problems, or faulty brakes, can lead to severe accidents. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure all crane parts are functioning properly.
  • Environmental Factors
    Weather conditions such as high winds, rain, or fog can affect crane operations, increasing the risk of accidents. Unstable ground or nearby obstacles also contribute to the hazards workers face when operating cranes.

Steps to Take After a Crane Accident

  • What to Do Immediately After an Accident
    If you are injured or witness a crane accident, follow these steps:
    • Report the incident to a supervisor or safety officer.
    • Document the scene, including any equipment involved.
    • Take photos of the site and injuries, if possible.
  • Medical Care and Documentation
    Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Prompt medical care is essential for your health and for documenting injuries that could affect your case later.

Compensation for Crane Accident Victims

  • Types of Compensation Available
    Victims of crane accidents may be entitled to various types of compensation, such as:
    • Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
    • Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injury.
    • Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress.
    • Wrongful Death: If the accident results in death, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation.
  • Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury Lawsuits
    • Workers' Compensation: This provides medical benefits and wage replacement for injuries sustained at work, but it generally prevents the worker from suing the employer.
    • Personal Injury Lawsuits: If a third party (such as a crane manufacturer or subcontractor) is at fault, a lawsuit may be filed to pursue additional compensation.

Legal Challenges in Crane Accident Cases

  • Proving Liability
    Determining who is at fault in a crane accident can be complicated. Liability may fall on the employer, equipment manufacturer, or a third-party contractor. Your lawyer will need to investigate all possible causes of the accident, including negligence or unsafe practices.
  • Complexities of Crane Accident Litigation
    Crane accident lawsuits can be challenging due to:
    • Expert Testimony: Technical experts may be needed to explain the cause of the accident.
    • Insurance Companies: Dealing with large construction companies or insurance providers can make it difficult to secure fair compensation.
    • Documenting Evidence: Gathering physical evidence and witness testimonies in crane accidents is crucial to building a strong case.

Having an experienced attorney by your side can help navigate these complexities and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What should I do if I’ve been injured in a crane accident?
    If you’ve been injured in a crane accident, it’s important to take the following steps:
    • Report the incident to your employer or supervisor immediately.
    • Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
    • Document the accident scene by taking photos and noting any relevant details.
    • Contact a crane accident lawyer to help you understand your rights and legal options.
  • Can I file a lawsuit if I receive workers' compensation benefits for my crane accident?
    Workers' compensation typically prevents you from suing your employer, but you may still have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against third parties responsible for your accident, such as equipment manufacturers or subcontractors. A lawyer can evaluate your case and help you explore all potential legal avenues.
  • How long do I have to file a claim for a crane accident in Illinois?
    In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, it’s essential to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that evidence is preserved and your claim is filed on time.
  • How is liability determined in a crane accident?
    Liability in crane accidents can be complex. It may be the result of operator error, mechanical failure, or unsafe working conditions. Employers, equipment manufacturers, and third-party contractors could all potentially be responsible. A skilled attorney can investigate the cause of the accident and help identify all liable parties.
  • What types of damages can I recover from a crane accident lawsuit?
    Victims of crane accidents may be entitled to various types of damages, including:
    • Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation)
    • Lost wages (compensation for time missed from work)
    • Pain and suffering (compensation for physical and emotional distress)
  • Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members)
  • Do I need an attorney if my crane accident seems straightforward?
    Even if your case seems clear-cut, having an experienced attorney on your side can ensure that you receive fair compensation. Insurance companies and employers may try to minimize your settlement. A lawyer can help protect your interests and negotiate on your behalf.
  • What should I expect during the crane accident claim process?
    The process typically includes:
    • Investigation and evidence gathering
    • Filing a claim with workers' compensation or initiating a personal injury lawsuit
    • Negotiation with insurance companies or employers
    • If necessary, taking your case to trial to seek fair compensation

Having a lawyer guide you through each step can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

How the Right Personal Injury Team Can Help

A crane accident case is typically easier to argue if the cause is evident in an immediate post-accident inspection. In an attempt to cover up their exposure to possible liability, employers may attempt to prevent the type of inspection you need to prove how you were injured. Turning to a competent personal injury attorney can help. At Turner Law Group, we’ll fight to ensure that the evidence you need to win in court isn’t hidden.

Lawsuits based on personal injury or wrongful death protection are based on the legal theory of negligence. It is not enough for mere accident victims to show that their injuries were predictably caused by the dangerous actions of others. With our help, you’ll also need to demonstrate how the defendant’s dangerous work practices were the cause of sending heavy objects careening from a construction crane.

The damages available to those injured by the negligence of others can vary widely. Your Silk lawyer can also ask for restitution and even be punitive damages in an appropriate case. The statute of limitations for personal family is only two years in their state, so you can’t delay.

Injured in a Crane Accident? Contact Turner Law Group Today!
Get the legal help you deserve. Call us tel:(800) 653-0198 now for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.




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FAQs

Common Answers To Your Questions
  • What qualifies as a personal injury?

    A personal injury generally refers to any bodily injury sustained in an accident, from minor bruises to severe brain trauma. The most common personal injury claims arise from harm sustained from traffic wrecks, slip and fall accidents, defective products, dangerous property conditions, and medical malpractice.

  • What is the personal injury statute of limitations in Illinois?

    Under state law, the statute of limitations (or deadline) for most personal injury claims in Illinois is two years from the date of the accident. However, for claims against governmental agencies, there are special limitation periods that may be as short as a year. You should always consult with an attorney on what particular limitations period might apply to your claim. You should seek legal help immediately, as a delay may be fatal to your claim. Unless you have a special exception, your claim will be thrown out if you attempt to file after the limitations period has passed.


    Because every personal injury claim is different, it is difficult to determine an average settlement. A victim who lost a limb will likely need to receive more in medical expenses than someone who broke an arm, for instance. Although personal injury claims tend to average anywhere between $3000 to $75,000—an extremely broad range—there may be significant economic and noneconomic factors in your individual case that may indicate that your particular claim would be valued at a significantly higher figure at trial in front of a jury. An attorney can help you estimate your unique losses based on the facts of your case. The knowledge of an attorney experienced in jury verdict value is extremely important. You should be entitled to make up for your specific losses at the very least.
     

  • What evidence is needed for a personal injury claim?

    Necessary evidence can vary case by case depending on the specifics of your situation. However, one of the most helpful pieces of evidence is your medical records. If you can prove that you sought medical attention for a serious injury after an accident, you are more likely to receive compensation to cover the expenses associated with said injury. Other helpful evidence includes any photographs of the accident scene, accident reports, witness statements, insurance forms, receipts, and any other physical evidence related to the injury.

  • What is the average settlement for a personal injury?

    Because every personal injury claim is different, it is difficult to determine an average settlement. A victim who lost a limb will likely need to receive more in medical expenses than someone who broke an arm, for instance. This means that personal injury claims tend to average anywhere between $3000 to $75,000—an extremely broad range. An attorney can help you estimate your unique losses based on the facts of your case. You should be entitled to make up for your specific losses at the very least.