Cranes are a common sight at construction sites throughout the city. While they are generally safe when used as intended, the consequences can be devastating when something goes wrong. If you or a loved one has been hurt at work in a crane-related accident, the dedicated construction accident attorneys at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. are here to guide and support you during this difficult time.
Depending on the circumstances of your injury, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim or even pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Rather than navigating this challenging process alone, let a Pittsfield crane accident lawyer from our firm seek damages and advocate on your behalf.
A crane accident can happen quickly and often results in serious injuries to workers on the ground and to those operating the equipment. Our Pittsfield crane accident attorneys could help you pursue compensation for a range of crane-related incidents.
A crane collapse occurs when the entire machine tips over or the boom fails due to stress. This can happen under various circumstances, such as when the crane is overloaded or assembled incorrectly. When a crane collapses, falling steel and equipment can strike workers across a large area of the job site.
Cranes routinely move heavy loads around the construction site. If the load becomes unstable or swings unexpectedly, workers nearby can be struck and injured. These incidents often happen when communication between the operator and ground crew breaks down.
Crane booms can reach significant heights, sometimes extending near overhead electrical lines. If the crane or its load contacts a power line, the electricity can travel through the equipment and cause severe electrocution injuries to workers on the ground or in the cab.
Cranes rely on complex systems, and the consequences can be severe if any of these parts fail. Mechanical failures might result from manufacturer defects or poor maintenance.
If you were injured in a crane accident while on the job, the Massachusetts workers’ compensation system may provide the primary path to financial recovery. Most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance that pays out benefits to workers hurt in work-related incidents.
Workers’ compensation benefits are available regardless of who caused the accident. Even if a mistake by a coworker or equipment operator contributed to the incident, you may still qualify for benefits as long as the injury occurred during your work duties.
These benefits generally cover medical treatment related to the accident, and they can also provide partial wage replacement if your injuries prevent you from working during recovery. An experienced attorney from our Pittsfield team could help you pursue the compensation you are entitled to after a crane accident injury.
While workers’ compensation usually prevents employees from suing their employer, it does not always prevent lawsuits against other responsible parties. In many crane accidents, a third party may have played a role in creating the dangerous conditions that led to the injury.
For example, you can sue a manufacturer for your injuries when a defect was to blame for the crane accident. You could also pursue claims against vendors, visitors, or independent contractors who were responsible for the incident.
When a third party is responsible, an injured worker may file a personal injury lawsuit in addition to receiving workers’ compensation benefits. Unlike workers’ compensation, a personal injury claim allows you to recover damages for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and other financial losses related to the accident. Our Pittsfield lawyers could advise you of your options after a crane accident.
If you have been hurt in a crane accident, take action now to protect your rights and pursue compensation. Contact Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. today to schedule a private consultation with a Pittsfield crane accident lawyer and get the legal guidance you need.
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