Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, where workers face daily risks from heavy machinery, towering structures, and fast-paced operations. Among the most dangerous pieces of equipment are cranes and boom trucks, which are essential for lifting and transporting heavy materials but can become deadly if not operated or maintained correctly. Tragically, accidents involving these machines often lead to devastating injuries or fatalities, as seen in a recent boom truck collapse along I-45 in Dickinson.
This incident is a sobering reminder of the dangers construction workers face and the importance of rigorous safety standards. In this blog, the construction injury attorneys at Kherkher Garcia explore the hazards associated with construction sites, the common causes of crane and boom truck accidents, and the severe injuries these incidents can inflict. We will also discuss how victims and their families can seek justice and protect their legal rights by working with an experienced attorney.
Fatal Boom Truck Collapse Details
n investigation is underway after a man was killed while working along I-45 on Tuesday afternoon. According to the Dickinson Police Department, officers received a report just before 2 p.m. about a construction worker injured on the 3400 block of the Gulf Freeway.
Upon arriving at the scene, police discovered that the worker had been fatally injured when a crane from a boom truck collapsed at the construction site. Aerial footage from SkyEye showed the collapsed crane resting on the male worker.
The incident has not caused significant disruptions to traffic. The accident site is located on an elevated section of the road that was already closed to traffic as part of the I-45 Expansion Project near FM 517.
Common Hazards of Construction Sites and Cranes
Cranes are essential for modern construction projects, allowing for the lifting and transportation of heavy materials. However, their use involves several risks, including:
Overloading and Tipping
Cranes are designed to lift loads within specified weight limits. When a crane is overloaded or improperly balanced, it can tip over, endangering workers and nearby structures.
Structural Failures
Fatigue, corrosion, manufacturing defects, or inadequate maintenance can lead to structural failures, such as collapsing booms or broken cables. These failures often result in falling debris or crane collapses.
Electrocution
Cranes often operate near overhead power lines. Accidental contact with live wires can lead to electrocution of the crane operator or ground crew.
Poor Weather Conditions
High winds, rain, and lightning can affect crane stability and visibility. Weather-related incidents are common, especially when cranes are used during inclement conditions.
Human Error
Inadequate training, operator fatigue, or poor communication can lead to mishandling of cranes. Misjudgments or procedural violations often result in accidents.
Falling Loads
Improper rigging or equipment failure can cause loads to detach from the crane. Falling loads pose a severe threat to workers on the ground.
Common Crane Incidents
Crane-related accidents vary in severity and type, but some are more common than others:
- Crane Collapses: Collapses are often due to overloading, high winds, or structural failures. A collapsing crane can cause massive destruction, including injuries, fatalities, and property damage.
- Boom Failures: A crane’s boom is the long, horizontal arm that extends to lift and move materials. Failures in the boom, whether due to mechanical issues or poor maintenance, can lead to catastrophic accidents.
- Load Drops: Loads may fall from cranes due to improper rigging, worn-out cables, or sudden mechanical failures. Falling objects can strike workers or pedestrians below, causing severe injuries.
- Struck-by Incidents: Workers may be struck by moving parts of the crane, including the boom or counterweights. These incidents often result in crushing injuries or fatalities.
- Electrocution Accidents: When cranes come into contact with power lines, workers in or near the crane are at risk of electrocution. Electrocution incidents are a leading cause of crane-related fatalities.
- Crane Tip-Overs: Improper setup, uneven ground, or exceeding load capacity can cause cranes to tip over. Tip-overs endanger not only the crane operator but also workers nearby.
Injuries Related to Cranes and Booms
Crane-related accidents often lead to life-altering injuries, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries may occur if a worker is struck by falling debris, the crane boom, or other equipment. TBIs can cause long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Crane accidents, such as falls or being struck by heavy objects, often result in spinal cord injuries. These injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Workers involved in crane accidents commonly suffer fractures or broken bones. Falling loads or equipment failures often result in crushing injuries.
- Electrocution Injuries: Contact with live electrical lines can lead to severe burns, organ damage, or fatal electrocution.
- Internal Injuries: The force of falling debris or a crane collapse can cause internal injuries, including damage to vital organs.
- Amputations: Severe crushing injuries from crane components or falling loads can necessitate amputation of limbs.
Unfortunately, many crane-related accidents result in death. Fatalities are often caused by crane collapses, electrocution, or being crushed by heavy equipment.
OSHA Standards for Crane Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established stringent safety standards to mitigate crane-related risks. These include:
- Operator Certification: Operators must be certified and trained to handle cranes safely.
- Inspections: Regular inspections of cranes and rigging equipment are mandatory.
- Load Limits: Cranes must not exceed their specified load capacities.
- Power Line Clearance: OSHA requires maintaining a minimum clearance between cranes and power lines to prevent electrocution.
- Communication Protocols: Clear communication among crane operators and ground crews is essential to avoid accidents.
Failure to adhere to these standards can result in accidents and legal liability for construction companies and contractors.
When to Contact an Attorney After a Crane Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crane-related accident, contacting an attorney is crucial for several reasons:
Determining Liability
Crane accidents often involve multiple parties, including construction companies, crane operators, equipment manufacturers, and contractors. An attorney can investigate the incident to identify responsible parties.
Navigating Workers’ Compensation Claims
Injured workers may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, these benefits may not fully cover medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care needs. An attorney can help you explore additional legal options.
Filing Third-Party Claims
In cases where a third party, such as a manufacturer or subcontractor, is responsible for the accident, a personal injury or wrongful death claim may be appropriate. These claims can provide compensation for pain and suffering, loss of income, and other damages.
Ensuring Compliance with Deadlines
Construction accident claims are subject to strict legal deadlines. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your right to compensation. An attorney can ensure all paperwork is filed on time.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf to secure fair compensation.
Pursuing Justice for Fatalities
If a crane accident results in a loved one’s death, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims can provide financial support and hold negligent parties accountable.
How Kherkher Garcia Can Help
At Kherkher Garcia, we understand the devastating impact of crane-related accidents. Our experienced construction accident attorneys are dedicated to helping injured workers and their families seek justice and secure the compensation they deserve.
We provide legal representation for:
- Crane collapse injuries
- Electrocution accidents
- Falling object injuries
- Spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries
- Wrongful death claims
Thorough Investigations
Our team conducts thorough investigations to determine the cause of the accident and identify liable parties. We work with industry experts to build strong cases on behalf of our clients.
Aggressive Advocacy
We are relentless in pursuing maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our goal is to ensure that our clients receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
No Upfront Costs
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. This allows injured workers and their families to access high-quality legal representation without financial strain.
Contact Kherkher Garcia Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crane-related accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The attorneys at Kherkher Garcia are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. With more than 30 years of experience, we know how to help victims and families protect their rights and obtain the compensation they deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice. Call 713-333-1030, or complete our online contact form to get started. With Kherkher Garcia on your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the complexities of your case.
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