The construction of a multi-story building or a building with a unique design almost always requires a crane. While cranes have revolutionized construction, they can also lead to deadly accidents when used incorrectly. In a 6-year span, crane accidents were responsible for 297 deaths and Florida had the second-highest number of fatal crane accidents. If you or a loved one was injured by a crane accident, contact our experienced Florida work injury lawyers for a free consultation!
What Causes Crane Accidents in Florida?
Crane accidents come in many forms. In the vast majority of accidents, human error is to blame. A crane accident can occur on a construction site for any number of reasons:
- Operating a crane on an unstable or uneven surface
- Broken rigging, stabilizer, or cables
- Overloading or exceeding the weight capacity
- Swinging the boom or executing a lift without the outriggers fully extended
- Dropping a load
- Coming into contact with power lines
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over half of fatal crane injuries happen when a worker is struck by an object or equipment. Three-fifths of accidents occur when a worker is struck by a falling object, usually an object falling from or put in motion by the use of a crane. Many workers are also killed by electrocution when contact is made with a power line while operating a crane or when the crane collapses.
Workers’ Compensation in Florida Crane Accidents
There is no doubt that working on a site near or on a crane can be dangerous. If you suffer a serious injury due to a crane-related accident, the workers’ compensation system in Florida is designed to protect you with benefits for your lost wages, medical bills, and disability. The vast majority of construction workers and crane operators are covered by workers’ compensation.
The purpose of workers’ compensation is to give you benefits regardless of fault in exchange for losing your right to sue your employer for your accident. However, receiving the benefits you are entitled to is not always easy. Your employer and their workers’ compensation carrier may fight your claim in many ways, including arguing that your injuries are not as severe as you claim or that you have fully recovered when you have not.
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Florida can help you through every stage of your workers’ compensation claim. At Work Injury Rights, we will investigate your accident to show how it happened and gather evidence proving the severity of your injuries. If your claim is denied, we will represent you in the hearing to present a strong case and fight for the full benefits you deserve.
Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Florida
Crane accidents in Florida usually lead to severe and life-changing injuries and fatalities among workers. While you accepted a dangerous job, you did so with the expectation that the system would take care of you if you were hurt. At Work Injury Rights, we believe that no injured worker should be left fighting for benefits after a life-changing accident.
Our work injury lawyers are here to fight for you and protect your rights. Contact us today for a free case review to begin exploring your options and fighting for the maximum compensation you are entitled to receive under the Florida workers’ compensation system.
