Alabama Crane Accident Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after a crane accident in Alabama?

Obtain emergency medical care, report the incident, photograph the crane and accident area when possible, identify witnesses, preserve clothing and equipment, retain medical and employment records, and seek legal advice before signing insurance documents.

What are common causes of crane accidents?

Common causes include improper setup, unstable ground, overloaded cranes, unsuitable equipment, rigging failures, dropped loads, boom collapses, power-line contact, improper outrigger extension, inadequate inspections, poor communication, operator error, and dangerous weather.

Who may be responsible for a crane accident?

Potentially responsible parties may include property owners, general contractors, subcontractors, crane operators, construction managers, rigging companies, crane owners, rental companies, maintenance contractors, manufacturers, and other entities involved in the lift.

Can I receive workers’ compensation after a crane accident?

An eligible employee injured while performing job duties may have a workers’ compensation claim for authorized medical care, a portion of lost wages, and other applicable benefits. Eligibility depends on the facts and Alabama law.

Can I file a third-party lawsuit in addition to workers’ compensation?

A third-party claim may be available when someone other than the worker’s employer or coemployee contributed to the accident. These claims may involve contractors, equipment owners, rental companies, maintenance providers, manufacturers, or property owners.

Can I bring a claim if defective crane equipment caused the accident?

A product or negligence claim may be possible when a defective crane, boom, cable, hook, outrigger, control, safety device, or rigging component causes an injury. The equipment should be preserved and inspected before it is repaired or altered.

What if the crane contacted an energized power line?

Power-line contact cases may require investigation of crane placement, required clearances, planning, warnings, spotters, utility coordination, operator conduct, and site supervision. Multiple contractors or other entities may share responsibility.

What compensation may be available after a crane accident?

Depending on the available claims, compensation may include medical expenses, future care, lost income, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, mental anguish, disability, disfigurement, and other losses permitted by Alabama law.

What evidence is important in a crane accident case?

Important evidence may include photographs, video, lift plans, load charts, operator records, inspection reports, maintenance histories, contracts, training records, rigging documentation, weather information, electronic crane data, witness statements, and applicable safety requirements.

Why should the crane and rigging equipment be preserved?

Physical evidence may reveal component failure, improper maintenance, overloading, incorrect rigging, defective design, or improper setup. Repairs, disposal, or continued use can alter or destroy important evidence.

What if an OSHA violation contributed to the crane accident?

An applicable safety violation may provide relevant evidence about the accident and responsible parties. An OSHA citation does not automatically decide a civil claim, so the contracts, conduct, equipment, and complete factual record must be examined.

Can a nonemployee injured by a crane file a claim?

A subcontractor, site visitor, motorist, pedestrian, nearby property occupant, or another nonemployee may have a claim when negligent crane operations or defective equipment cause an injury.

How long do I have to pursue a crane accident claim in Alabama?

Deadlines differ for workers’ compensation claims, personal injury lawsuits, product claims, and cases involving government entities. Special notice requirements may also apply, so the incident should be investigated promptly.

How can Ferguson & Ferguson help with a crane accident claim?

Ferguson & Ferguson can investigate the lift and accident, preserve equipment and electronic evidence, identify responsible parties, examine workers’ compensation and third-party claims, document damages, negotiate with insurers, and pursue litigation when necessary.

How much does it cost to hire Ferguson & Ferguson for a crane accident case?

Ferguson & Ferguson offers free, no-obligation consultations and handles crane injury cases on a contingency-fee basis. Clients do not owe an attorney fee unless the firm obtains compensation, subject to the written representation agreement.

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Property owners, general contractors, subcontractors, construction managers, construction companies, and equipment manufacturers may all be liable for your crane accident. You may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional trauma, medical costs, disfigurement, lost income, and future earnings. If you or a loved one has been involved in a crane accident at a construction site, contact Ferguson & Ferguson today. We offer free consultations and only get paid when we obtain a recovery for you. Call 256-534-3435 now. We are here to help.

Huntsville Office Location:
303 Williams Avenue SW
Suite 321
Huntsville, AL 35801

Decatur Office Location:
211 Oak Street, NE
Decatur, AL 35601