Crane accidents can cause catastrophic injuries on construction sites. When a crane malfunctions, collapses, or is operated improperly, workers may deal with serious medical treatment, lost income, and uncertainty about who is responsible. A Baton Rouge crane accident lawyer could help evaluate what went wrong and pursue accountability.
Crane activity is common on large construction projects throughout the area. These sites often involve multiple contractors, heavy equipment, and tight workspaces. When safety protocols are ignored or equipment fails, the consequences can be severe. At Tomeny | Best, our construction accident attorneys help injured workers and their families navigate the legal process after serious accidents.
How Do Crane Accidents Happen on Construction Sites?
Crane accidents may involve a combination of human error and mechanical failure. Common causes include:
- Improper crane assembly
- Overloading
- Inadequate inspection or maintenance
- Unstable ground conditions
- Operator error
In some cases, poor communication between crew members or failure to follow established safety procedures plays a significant role.
Because cranes are complex machines, determining what went wrong requires a careful investigation. An attorney in Baton Rouge may look at records related to inspections, load limits, training, and site conditions to understand how the crane accident occurred.
The Role of Crane Rental Companies in Crane Accidents
Many cranes used on construction sites are not owned by the contractor performing the work. Instead, they are rented from third-party crane rental companies that supply the equipment for a defined period of time. These companies often retain responsibility for inspecting and maintaining their vehicles, and they must ensure that the crane is in safe operating condition before it is delivered to the site.
When a crane accident occurs, questions often arise about whether the equipment was properly serviced, whether known mechanical issues were addressed, and whether the crane was suitable for the work being performed. Mechanical failures, worn components, faulty safety systems, or improper setup instructions can all contribute to a serious incident. In these situations, the actions or omissions of the rental company may play a critical role in determining liability.
Crane rental companies may also be responsible for providing accurate operating manuals, load charts, and warnings about limitations or site requirements. If information is missing, outdated, or incorrect, operators and contractors may unknowingly place the crane in unsafe conditions.
When negligence by a crane rental company contributes to an accident, an injured worker may have a valid third-party claim separate from workers’ compensation benefits. A Baton Rouge attorney could identify this form of liability to help an injured person pursue full compensation for a serious crane accident injury.
Workers’ Compensation and Third-Party Claims After a Crane Accident
Most Louisiana construction workers are covered by workers’ compensation through their employer, which may provide medical care and partial wage replacement after a crane accident. These benefits typically prevent a lawsuit against the employer. However, crane accidents often involve third parties. When a contractor, equipment supplier, or manufacturer contributed to the incident, a separate personal injury claim may be available. Our crane accident attorneys in Baton Rouge help injured workers evaluate how these claims overlap and whether third-party recovery is possible.
Call an Attorney at Tomeny | Best After a Baton Rouge Crane Accident
Crane accidents often leave families facing difficult decisions. At Tomeny | Best, we understand the seriousness of these cases and the importance of a careful, informed approach.
If you were injured in a crane accident, a Baton Rouge crane accident lawyer at Tomeny | Best could help you explore your legal options and pursue fair compensation. Contact us today to discuss how to move forward after your crane-related injury and learn how we could help protect your future.
