Today is going to be your first day operating the crane and you are scared senseless. You know that you are prepared and have had the adequate training, but the sheer size of the crane has you unbelievably nervous. The reason why? You’ve heard story after story from your father, friends, and co-workers about crane accidents. They’ve told you how friends have died, operators have become trapped, and machines have collapsed buildings.

Now, although you want the added responsibility of operating it, you don’t particularly want the added stress of worrying about an accident. So, should you be worried? Are cranes and other construction machinery really that dangerous?

Fatal Faults and Problems With Construction Machinery

Heavy machinery—especially large pieces like cranes—can be extremely hazardous in certain situations. This machinery often requires extensive training to operate, continuous maintenance, and the right ground to help to steer and navigate. Otherwise, the results could be catastrophic. Even though construction equipment should be regularly inspected, machinery malfunctions and human error are daily risks for construction workers. 

These common worrisome risks include:

Worn or broken parts.

When a piece of machinery breaks, it can not only cause serious lacerations and blunt force trauma, but it could also jam the machine if it falls into it. This can affect the machine’s function and cause it to drop loads. In addition, if a broken piece needs to be removed from the machine, the person who is nominated to pry it out has an increased chance of becoming seriously injured.

Safety feature failure.

If backup lights or locking mechanisms fail, loads can be lost, co-workers could be run over, and the equipment operator could become trapped if the machine falters or tips over.

Electrical malfunctions.

In some cases, construction workers have seen equipment continue to move after shutdown. This isn’t only unnerving, but unpredictable as well. If a machine continues to lower when a worker is walking underneath it, he could become crushed. If the machine continues to roll backward, it could wind up falling into a ditch or hole—dragging the driver down with it. Additionally, when operating too close to power lines, the risk of electrocution is extremely high due to the fact that most construction machinery is made out of metal.

Possibility of collapse.

When over weighted or unbalanced, cranes can easily collapse or fall over, crushing anything or anyone within its path.

When Machines Attack

When you’re injured on the job as a result of a faulty machine, you may be able to receive compensation for your damages in addition to your workers’ compensation benefits. Call us today for a free consultation and review of your case. A painful and debilitating injury is difficult enough to live with, without also being taken advantage of by your employer and insurance company. That’s why we won’t let that happen. Call now to see how our experience, know-how, and persistence may be able to get you the injury compensation and justice you deserve.

Have You Been Injured In A Texas Construction Accident?

If you've been injured in a construction accident you need to speak with an experienced construction accident injury attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Colleyville office directly at 817.485.8888 to schedule your free consultation.

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David Hart
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Helping victims throughout Fort Worth, Arlington, North Richland, Grapevine, Bedford, Hurst and points between
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