Last Updated on March 10, 2025 by tanya

Common Crane Accidents

 

The Dangers, Injuries And When You Can Make A Personal Injury Claim

 

Cranes are used in major construction across the world and as they are such large, heavy machines, there are common crane accidents which may occur on any site. Whether it’s building a skyscraper or a bridge, cranes are used to carry and position heavy loads.

Due to their sheer size, cranes pose as a risk for serious injury as they can fail, be overloaded and topple. In addition. it may even cause electrocution of it accidentally comes into contact with power lines.

If you, or a loved one, has suffered an injury in a crane accident, First Personal Injury partners with personal injury lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we may be able to help.

 

Common Causes of Crane Accidents

 

Crane accidents can happen for various reasons and may involve negligence, improper maintenance, or unsafe working conditions. Here are some of the most common crane accidents:

 

Equipment Failure – Cranes require regular maintenance. Failure of a critical part on the crane due to wear and tear or a manufacturing defect, may potentially cause serious harm.

 

Operator Error – Inexperienced or improperly trained crane operators may make mistakes that lead to accidents.

 

Overloading the Crane – Another dangerous hazard is exceeding the crane’s weight limit. This can cause it to tip over or collapse which may injure workers are passers by.

 

Lack of Communication – Crane operations require coordination between workers on the ground and the operator. Miscommunication is a key risk which can lead to accidents.

 

Adverse Weather Conditions – Strong winds, heavy rain, ice or snow can make crane operations hazardous for everyone on the site.

 

Improper Setup – If the crane is not set up on stable ground or is improperly balanced, it can become unstable and collapse.

 

Electrocution – Many cranes operate near power lines with electrocution a high risk if the crane comes into accidental contact.

 

Types of Injuries in Crane Accidents

Crane accidents can cause a range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Here are some of the most common injuries which can happen:

 

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head injuries are common in crane accidents, whether from falling debris, falls from heights, or being struck by crane parts. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.

 

Spinal Cord Injuries

A crane collapse or fall can result in spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to paralysis. This type of severe injury would require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

 

Broken Bones and Fractures

Crane accidents often involve falls or being crushed, leading to broken bones. While some fractures may heal over time, severe cases can result in permanent disability.

 

Crush Injuries

Being caught between a crane and another object or having a limb pinned under heavy equipment can cause crush injuries. This causes serious harm and may lead to amputation or severe nerve damage.

 

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma from a crane accident can damage internal organs. This is hazardous as it may lead to life-threatening conditions such as internal bleeding.

 

Electrocution Injuries

If a crane comes into contact with power lines, workers nearby may suffer electrocution injuries. This may result in burns, nerve damage, and even cardiac arrest.

 

When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?

 

If you’ve been injured in a crane accident through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. Perhaps your employer was negligent and failed to provide a safe working environment.

Or your employer may have been negligent when it came to properly training or providing the necessary training equipment. Unsafe working conditions, such as bad weather, or unstable ground may also be grounds for a claim.

Alternatively, sometimes the responsibility for a crane accident lies with a third party. This could be another contractor on site, or even a manufacturer if there was a defective part.

It is important to remember that a personal injury lawyer can assess your claim. Compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

 

Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference in your journey ahead. At First Personal Injury, we work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and will ensure you receive all the support you need. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online at First Personal Injury to learn more.