CONSTRUCTION CRANE COLLAPSE CAUSES INJURY AND DEATH; SECOND CRANE ACCIDENT THIS MONTH
Another crane collapse has occurred at a construction site this month, whether by unlucky coincidence or widespread negligence,. For reasons unknown, a piece of a crane being used on a large condominium project in Miami, Florida fell 39 stories and crashed through the roof of a home being used as the site’s construction office. One person died at the scene of the crime from severe head injury, while another was pronounced dead later at the local hospital. In addition, 5 more people inside the house had to be hospitalized.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is currently investigating the crash to determine the cause of the accident. Earlier this month, another crane collapsed at a construction site in New York and left 7 individuals dead. The New York crane collapse occurred when a 5 ½ ton steel collar used to secure the crane to the building broke loose. Investigators into the New York crash discovered that a building inspector had allegedly lied about performing a safety inspection of the crane, and the individual was arrested.
Cranes are often used in the construction industry. One source estimates that approximately 125,000 cranes are currently being used. Although not a subject of widespread media attention until recently, crane accidents actually occur more often than most people realize. In 2007, 347 accident reports were received involving cranes. Of those, these crane accidents claimed 176 lives. Crane accidents can occur due to faulty design, negligence on the part of the inspector, operator, and even the construction company for failing to maintain safety standards.
Victims of crane accidents can seek recourse if the accident occurred as a result of negligence on a responsible party’s part. If you or a loved one has been injured by a crane or construction accident in the state of California, you need an expert who can help you fight for your rights. The professionals at the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP are just those experts. Call 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney now.
