Crane accidents can be incredibly devastating, or even fatal. Cranes are a frequent staple of large petrochemical plants and construction sites throughout Texas. When something goes wrong with one, you may suffer incredibly painful, debilitating, and expensive injuries. When this happens, a personal injury lawsuit or workers’ compensation claim may help you seek the compensation you deserve.
At Griffin Law Group, LLC, our dedicated Texas personal injury and workers’ compensation attorneys are here to help you pursue the monetary compensation you’re owed. Schedule a meeting today to learn more about how we can help.
Why Crane Accidents Are So Common in Texas
Texas leads the nation in large-scale construction, refinery expansions, and port operations. With thousands of cranes operating daily, the risk of accidents increases due to:
- Improper assembly or disassembly
- Mechanical failures
- Overloading
- Improper load calculations
- Operator error
- Inadequate training
- High winds and severe weather
- Poor communication between contractors and subcontractors
- Ground instability
- Improper setup
- Fatigue during long shifts
- Improper turnaround schedules
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Crane Accident?
Liability depends on many different factors. In Texas, several parties may be responsible.
1. Employers
If the victim is a worker, the employer may be liable for:
- Inadequate training
- Unsafe work practices
- Failure to follow OSHA or industry standards
- Negligent supervision
- Improper crane operation or setup
Texas employers may carry workers’ compensation, but many don’t. Non-subscriber employers can be sued directly for negligence, and they lose several legal defenses that would normally protect them.
2. General Contractors and Subcontractors
Large Texas projects often involve multiple companies working side by side. A contractor may be liable if:
- Their crew assembled the crane incorrectly
- They ignored safety warnings
- They pressured operators to work in unsafe conditions
- They failed to coordinate operations with other companies on site
3. Crane Owners and Rental Companies
Many cranes used in Texas are rented. The rental company may be responsible if:
- The crane was poorly maintained
- Safety inspections were skipped
- Known defects were ignored
- The crane was delivered with faulty components
4. Manufacturers
If a crane collapses due to a design flaw, defective part, or manufacturing error, the crane manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws.
5. Property Owners
In some cases, the owner of the land or facility, such as a refinery, port, or commercial developer, may be responsible for unsafe site conditions.
What Compensation Can Victims Recover?
Crane accidents often cause severe injuries. Depending on the circumstances, victims may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses
- Long-term care costs
- Lost wages
- Future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability costs
- Disfigurement damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death damages
- Survival damages for families
If the employer is a non-subscriber or a third party is responsible, victims can pursue full compensation through a lawsuit. Even when workers’ compensation applies, additional claims may still be available against negligent contractors, equipment owners, or manufacturers.
Why Crane Accident Investigations Are Complex
Crane accidents trigger immediate responses from multiple parties. Evidence can disappear quickly, and companies often try to shift blame to avoid liability.
Key evidence may include:
- Crane inspection and maintenance records
- Load charts
- Operating logs
- Weather reports
- Ground stability assessments
- Operator training files
- Surveillance footage
- Witness statements
A thorough investigation is essential to determine what went wrong and who is responsible.
What Victims Should Do After a Crane Accident
If you were injured in a crane accident or collapse in Texas, take these steps:
- Report the incident immediately
- Get medical care from a doctor you choose, not just the company clinic
- Avoid signing statements or giving recorded interviews
- Document injuries, equipment conditions, and witness names
- Keep copies of all medical records and expenses
- Contact an attorney experienced in Texas crane accident claims
Seek the Compensation You Are Owed After a Texas Crane Accident
Knowing what to do after a crane accident can help you recover both physically and financially. Our skilled team is here to assist you through the legal process.
Consult a Texas personal injury attorney at Griffin Law Group, LLC for help. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.