pixel
212-962-1020
    • Menu
    212-962-1020

    Available 24/7

    Em Português En Español
    Free Case Consultation

    The Complexity and Risks of Crane Operations in New York City

    Cranes are used daily throughout New York City for the many ongoing construction projects. The operation of a crane is extremely complex and, when things go wrong, the consequences can be disastrous. New York possesses distinct and potent laws that empower injured construction workers to seek legal redress against negligent companies. These unique labor laws allow injured parties to pursue compensation covering medical expenses, lost earnings, and distress endured due to these accidents.

    Crane accidents in New York result in more than 20% of all fatalities in construction accidents. While construction workers can be injured in crane accidents, so can bystanders and pedestrians. This is where a knowledgeable construction accident lawyer in New York can help - our lawyers specialize in crane accidents and other construction-related injuries.

    At the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, PLLC, we have helped client after client obtain record-high verdicts and settlements in construction accident cases, including crane accidents. If you’ve been injured in a crane accident and want the best possible legal representation, contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.

    Types of Cranes Used in New York Construction Sites

    Cranes are essential pieces of machinery on construction sites, providing the necessary lifting power to move heavy materials and equipment. In New York, various types of cranes are employed, each suited to specific tasks and site conditions. 

    Tower Cranes

    • Description: Tower cranes are tall, fixed cranes that provide height and lifting capacity for large construction projects. They consist of a vertical mast, a horizontal boom, and a rotating top.
    • Use: Commonly used for skyscrapers and large commercial buildings due to their ability to reach significant heights and lift heavy loads.

    Mobile Cranes

    • Description: Mobile cranes are versatile, wheeled cranes that can be easily transported to various job sites. They have a telescopic boom that can be extended and retracted.
    • Use: Ideal for smaller construction projects or for lifting materials in hard-to-reach areas, such as residential sites or roadwork.

    Rough Terrain Cranes

    • Description: These are similar to mobile cranes but are specifically designed for off-road conditions. They have four large tires and a powerful drivetrain to navigate rough terrain.
    • Use: Often used on construction sites with uneven ground or in remote areas where traditional cranes cannot operate.

    Crawler Cranes

    • Description: Crawler cranes are mounted on tracks, which provide stability and allow them to move on soft or uneven surfaces. They feature a rotating upper structure (the “house”) that can turn 360 degrees.
    • Use: Used for heavy lifting on construction sites with poor ground conditions, such as wetlands or demolition sites.

    Overhead Cranes

    • Description: Overhead cranes, often found in warehouses and factories, consist of a bridge that moves along two parallel tracks. They typically include a hoist that can lift materials vertically.
    • Use: Commonly used in manufacturing plants and fabrication shops to move heavy loads within a designated area.

    Articulating Cranes (Knuckle Boom Cranes)

    • Description: Articulating cranes feature a boom with several joints, allowing for greater flexibility in positioning the load. They can often reach around obstacles.
    • Use: Frequently used in landscaping, roofing, and other applications requiring precise load placement.

    Floating Cranes

    • Description: Floating cranes are mounted on barges or ships and are designed for maritime construction projects.
    • Use: Used for heavy lifting in port operations, bridge construction over water, or offshore construction projects.

    Risks of Crane Accidents on New York Construction Sites

    Crane accidents are among the most severe hazards in the construction industry, especially in urban environments like New York City, where construction activity is intense and complex. Cranes are large, heavy machinery used to lift and move materials and equipment at heights, making them integral to many construction projects. Based on this, crane operation poses significant risks to workers, pedestrians, and bystanders. 

    Crane Overturns

    Crane overturns occur when a crane tips over due to various factors, including:

    • Improper Setup: Failing to level the crane or stabilize it on unsuitable ground can lead to tipping.
    • Excessive Load: Overloading the crane beyond its rated capacity can cause instability and overturning.
    • High Winds: Strong gusts can destabilize a crane, particularly if it is not secured properly or if the operator fails to adhere to wind speed restrictions.

    Falling Loads

    Falling loads are a serious risk on construction sites, where cranes are often used to lift heavy materials. Causes of falling loads include:

    • Improper Rigging: Inadequate or faulty rigging equipment can lead to loads becoming unbalanced or detaching from the crane.
    • Operator Error: Mistakes during the lift, such as jerking the load or moving it too quickly, can cause the load to fall.
    • Equipment Failure: Malfunctioning hoists, slings, or hooks can result in dropped loads.
    A man on machinery

    Contact with Power Lines

    Cranes are often used in urban areas where power lines are prevalent. Accidental contact with electrical lines can cause:

    • Electrocution: A crane coming into contact with live wires can result in severe injury or death for operators and nearby workers.
    • Power Outages: Accidental contact can disrupt electrical services, impacting nearby buildings and facilities.

    Operator Errors

    Human error is a major factor in many crane accidents. Common operator errors include:

    • Inadequate Training: Operators lacking proper training may misjudge loads or fail to follow safety protocols.
    • Distractions: Failing to maintain focus while operating a crane can lead to critical mistakes.
    • Failure to Communicate: Poor communication with ground crew or other workers can result in mis-coordination during lifts.

    Crane Collapses

    Crane collapses can occur due to structural failures, leading to catastrophic accidents. Common causes include:

    • Operator Errors: Inadequate operation can compromise a crane's integrity.
    • Poor Maintenance: Neglecting regular inspections and maintenance can lead to mechanical failures.
    • Excessive Wear and Tear: Aging equipment that is not properly maintained can fail under load.

    Falling from Heights

    Workers may fall from cranes or elevated positions while conducting operations. Contributing factors include:

    • Lack of Fall Protection: Failing to use proper safety harnesses or guardrails can increase the risk of falls.
    • Improper Ladder or Scaffold Use: Using unstable ladders or scaffolds can lead to accidents involving falls from heights.

    Struck-By Accidents

    Workers on the ground can be struck by swinging loads or moving cranes. Causes include:

    • Inadequate Exclusion Zones: Failing to establish proper safety zones around cranes can expose workers to hazards.
    • Lack of Visibility: Operators may have blind spots, making it challenging to see workers on the ground during lifting operations.
    • Inadequate supervision of operators and other workers in the vicinity of the crane operation exposes workers to additional hazards. 
    • Inadequate inspection of the crane and all working parts, including inspection of the rear alarm, lights, etc. 

    Contact us for help with your crane accident claim

    The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff and its NYC crane accident attorneys are well-versed in construction accident cases and are aggressive in litigating cases for those injured. It is important that your attorney is dedicated to fighting for your cause.

    If you have been involved in a crane accident, contact a New York City personal injury lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff for a free consultation. Contact us online or call us at any time at 212-962-1020 or toll-free at 877-675-4529.

    Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.

    Languages Spoken
    Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 212-962-1020.

    For all media & press inquiries please message: press@msllegal.com