Crane Accidents and California Workers’ Compensation
Crane accidents are among the most dangerous types of incidents on construction sites, often resulting in severe injuries and even fatalities, not just for the crane operators but nearly anyone at the site in range of these monstrous machines. In nonfatal cases, a crane accident can bring significant challenges, from physical pain and extensive medical bills to temporary or permanent disability and emotional trauma. At Invictus Law, P.C., our dedicated workers’ compensation attorneys understand the complex nature of crane accidents and are committed to helping injured workers pursue the benefits they deserve. For workers in Orange County and the Inland Empire hurt in a crane collapse or other incident, contact our offices in Orange and Ontario to speak with a compassionate and dedicated Southern California workers’ compensation lawyer.
Common Causes of Crane Accidents
Crane accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which involve preventable factors such as human error or equipment malfunction. Some of the most common causes of crane accidents include:
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Improper Assembly or Disassembly: If a crane is not assembled or disassembled correctly, it can lead to equipment failure and catastrophic accidents.
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Inadequate Training: Workers who are not fully trained in crane operation or safety protocols are more likely to make mistakes, endangering themselves and others on the site.
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Poor Weather Conditions: High winds, heavy rain, or lightning can destabilize cranes, increasing the risk of tipping or equipment malfunction.
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Overloading: Cranes are designed to lift specific weight limits. Exceeding these limits can lead to structural failure, dropping heavy loads on workers below.
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Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep cranes operating safely. Mechanical issues, such as faulty brakes or cables, can lead to dangerous accidents if not promptly addressed.
Understanding these causes is essential for identifying responsibility and establishing fault in cases where the insurance carrier denies liability.
Serious Injuries in Crane Accidents
Crane accidents can result in a range of serious injuries, many of which require long-term medical care and rehabilitation. Common injuries associated with crane accidents include:
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Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Falls, collisions, or being struck by swinging or falling objects can cause TBIs, leading to lifelong cognitive and physical challenges.
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Spinal Cord Injuries: A fall from a crane or a structural collapse can lead to spinal cord injuries, resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
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Fractures and Broken Bones: Impact from crane malfunctions or falling or flying loads often leads to broken bones, particularly in the legs, arms, and ribs.
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Crush Injuries: Crane accidents can lead to severe crush injuries, which may require surgical amputation or result in permanent disability.
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Internal Injuries: The force from crane accidents often results in damage to internal organs, necessitating emergency medical treatment and surgery.
The physical, emotional, and financial toll of these injuries can be overwhelming, making the need for workers’ compensation benefits crucial for recovery.
Pursuing Workers’ Compensation Benefits After a Crane Accident in Southern California
In California, workers injured in crane accidents are generally eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which can cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and disability benefits. However, navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complex, and insurance companies may attempt to minimize or deny claims. Our workers’ compensation attorneys at Invictus Law, P.C. can help injured workers by:
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Guiding You Through the Claims Process: Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be intimidating and confusing, especially for those unfamiliar with the system. We assist our clients in submitting accurate and thorough claims to avoid delays and denials.
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Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to reduce their financial obligations. Our attorneys negotiate assertively to ensure that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to under California law.
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Representing You in Appeals: If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, we can help you file an appeal and represent you throughout the hearings and review process.
When Third-Party Liability May Apply
In some crane accident cases, parties other than your employer may share responsibility for the accident. These third parties can include crane manufacturers, subcontractors, or maintenance providers. If negligence by a third party contributed to the accident, injured workers may be able to pursue a third-party liability claim in addition to workers’ compensation benefits. This type of claim can provide additional compensation for pain and suffering, which is not covered by workers’ compensation.
Our attorneys at Invictus Law, P.C. carefully evaluate each crane accident case to determine if third-party liability exists. We work closely with industry experts to uncover evidence of negligence or fault by third parties, maximizing the compensation available to our clients.
Why Choose Invictus Law, P.C. for Your Crane Accident Claim?
At Invictus Law, P.C., we have extensive experience in handling workers’ compensation claims for injured construction workers across Southern California. We understand the unique challenges that crane accident victims face and are dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of injured workers. Here’s why workers in Orange County and the Inland Empire trust us with their cases:
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Focused Knowledge: Our attorneys are well-versed in California workers’ compensation law, especially as it pertains to construction site injuries and crane accidents.
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Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize our clients’ needs, providing clear communication, compassionate support, and tenacious advocacy from start to finish.
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Aggressive Representation: We are not afraid to take on insurance companies and third parties to secure the benefits and compensation our clients deserve.
Contact Invictus Law, P.C. for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crane accident in Orange County or the Inland Empire, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Invictus Law, P.C. today at 949-287-5711 or 888-9WORKLAW to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys. Our offices in Orange and Ontario are conveniently located to serve workers throughout Southern California, and we are here to help you pursue the benefits you need to recover and rebuild.
