Crane and Aerial Lift Accident Attorney in Kansas City, Missouri

Understanding Your Rights After a Crane and Aerial Lift Accident

Every year, crane and aerial lift accidents cause injury. Cranes and aerial lifts are useful tools in construction and manufacturing since they are helpful in lifting and transporting heavy materials. However, they can also be dangerous when the equipment is faulty or when the crane is operated incorrectly. Just a month ago, a crane fell near a construction site near Weber Hall, causing damage to several vehicles in a Kansas State University parking lot. 

Operators, nearby workers, and even passersby are usually the ones in harm's way when crane and aerial lift accidents happen. Cranes usually weigh thousands of pounds, and when accidents happen, victims can be severely harmed, with their lives permanently changed in a matter of seconds.

Crane and aerial lift accidents affect more than physical injuries. Victims also face overwhelming medical bills that affect their families. Aside from that, injured individuals may have a hard time getting justice and compensation.

During these times, a skilled personal injury attorney can give you the legal guidance that you need. An experienced Kansas City crane and aerial lift accident lawyer can navigate the complexities of a personal accident injury. If you or a loved one suffered injury in this type of accident, reach out to Bautista LeRoy today, and we'll help you get justice and protect your rights.

Call us at 816-221-0382 or get in touch with us through our Contact page for a free consultation.

 

Why Choose Bautista LeRoy LLC for Your Case

When you file for a personal injury claim after a crane and aerial lift accident, it is important to find the best legal representation. You need a team that knows the complexities of personal injury law and also the unique challenges of crane and aerial lift accidents. Our legal team at Bautista LeRoy LLC is an expert in both types of cases. 

 

Decades of Legal Experience

Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience helping personal injury victims and their families in Kansas City. Our track record of handling crane and aerial lift accident cases shows thorough investigation and strategic litigation in every case that we have handled. We have a long history of winning personal injury claims for our clients.

 

Multi-Awarded Service 

We know accidents can be difficult for victims, so we focus on a compassionate, friendly approach that helps reduce your stress while fighting to give you justice. With our knowledge of Kansas City law and workplace safety regulations, we will provide you with the legal support you need at this difficult time. We have received multiple awards for our service, such as being named Best Law Firm by Best Lawyers in America, 2018 Law Firm of the Year, and Super Lawyer in Missouri and Kansas. We will ensure that we provide you with the best legal service possible.

 

Focus on Crane and Aerial Lift Accidents 

Over the years, we've come up with strategies to handle even the most complicated crane and aerial lift cases. Our lawyers know extensively about the technical and legal components of crane accidents. Our expertise and experience allow us to anticipate obstacles and win cases for our clients.

 

We Shoulder All Upfront Costs And Only Get Paid When YOU Win Your Case

We work on a contingency basis, this means that you only pay us when we win your case. Let our experienced attorneys fight for your rights, your recovery, and your future.

Call us now at 816-221-0382 or contact us online for a free consultation.

 

The Most Common Types of Crane Accidents

Crane accidents from different sites may look different. However, they often have the same impact, such as life-threatening injuries and overwhelming financial difficulties. Here are some of the most common types of accidents that happen with cranes and aerial lifts: 

Crane Collapse

One of the most dangerous things that may happen on a construction site is a full crane collapse. The whole machine tips or falls over, which is commonly caused by unstable ground or bad assembly. When this happens, a lot of workers or people walking nearby can be crushed in a matter of seconds.

Crane Boom Collapse

The boom is the crane's long arm that transports heavy materials. If the boom breaks, it could swing and injure workers. Most of the time, this kind of accident happens because the crane is overloaded.

Dropped Load

When the load a crane carries becomes loose, it might fall from great heights. A single dropped load may weigh several tons. When an accident involving a dropped load happens, workers 
below and even bystanders might not be able to escape in time.

Electrical Line Contact

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says that the main cause of crane-related deaths is contact with live electric wires. If any part of the equipment comes in contact with a power line, it could electrocute and cause fatal injuries to the operator and anyone else nearby. This type of incident is dangerous as electricity can arc through the air even without direct contact.

Mechanical Failures

Cranes are machines that need regular maintenance. If any of its parts are neglected, they can malfunction during operation. In some cases, defects in the manufacturing process are also to blame, which makes the person who made the equipment liable.

Falls from a Height

When you work on or near cranes, you often have to climb ladders or platforms that are several stories high. Workers could fall if they make a mistake or don't take the right safety measures. Most of the time, these falls severely injure individuals.

These common types of crane accidents show how bad it can be when they happen. When negligence or unsafe practices occur in the workplace, the consequences are often devastating.                                                                

 

What Are The Common Causes of Crane Accidents?

Most of the time, crane accidents happen because of preventable mistakes. Knowing these causes can help you understand how crane and aerial lift accidents happen and who might be liable.

Overloaded Cranes

Cranes are built with specific weight limits. When workers or employers exceed the determined limit, it causes the entire machine to fail, and the people in the area are at risk. Overloading can cause the cables to give way or the crane to collapse. This is one of the leading causes of catastrophic accidents on busy worksites.

Improperly Secured Cranes

It is necessary that cranes are carefully anchored or secured before operation. If stabilizers or supports are not set properly, the crane can tip. These accidents are often due to negligence in setup and inspection.

Unbalanced Loads

Unevenly distributed weight can cause the crane to become unstable. If the load is unbalanced, it could swing around or make the crane lean and tip over. Employers must train operators to prevent these hazards before lifting begins.

Uneven Ground

A crane must rest on level, stable terrain. When it is placed on sloped ground or unsteady surfaces, the crane can shift or lose balance. Contractors are responsible for ensuring the safety of ground conditions before operation.

Operator Error

You need to undergo the proper training to operate cranes safely. Neglecting safety rules can cause crane accidents that may result in injuries or even death. These kinds of mistakes happen most of the time because operators lack training or supervision.

Poor Crane Maintenance

Crane parts deteriorate over time. Accidents can happen when hydraulic systems fail or cables break. That is why it is so important to regularly have repairs and inspections.  However, sometimes crane maintenance is too often overlooked to save expenses.

With the correct safety measures, many of these accidents may have been easily avoided. This is why accountability is so vital in cases of crane injuries. Negligence often causes these accidents. 

 

Types of Injuries in Crane and Aerial Lift Accidents

There are different injuries that victims may sustain in crane and aerial lift accidents. Some are minor and others are mostly catastrophic. The following are some of the most common injuries. 

Electrocution Injuries

When cranes or aerial lifts touch overhead power lines, the high voltage can travel through the equipment. Then it can cause electrocution to the operator or nearby workers. The current often causes severe electrical burns and permanent nerve injuries. It might also lead to cardiac arrest and death. 

Crush Injuries and Amputations
Workers can get stuck when a crane falls or if it drops heavy materials on the ground. This can cause terrible crush injuries that can break bones or lead to amputations. In some cases, these types of injuries may cause permanent disability.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Head trauma during crane and aerial lift accidents is often caused by falls from aerial lifts or being hit on the head by falling materials. Workers suffer concussions or traumatic brain injuries. Severe TBIs can often cause impaired memory and motor skills.

Spinal Cord and Orthopedic Injuries

Falling from a high place while using lifts can result in spinal injuries. These accidents can cause full paralysis. It's also common to get orthopedic injuries, like a broken arm or leg. Going through multiple surgeries and physical therapy is often necessary to regain mobility.

Fatal Injuries

Crane and aerial lift accidents can result in fatalities. OSHA states that an average of 42 to 44 people die in crane accidents every year in the US. Aerial lift accidents also claim dozens more. These deaths leave behind grieving families who have to deal with the emotional and financial pain of losing a loved one.

 

Legal Options for Victims

When accidents happen, the injured victims may not know that they have a number of options for getting compensated for their injuries. It is important to know the different kinds of legal claims because each option provides different forms of financial compensation.

 

Workers' Compensation Benefits

Workers' compensation is the first way to get compensation if an employee gets hurt while using or working near cranes or aerial lifts. This system provides benefits regardless of fault. 

While workers' compensation can give immediate financial relief, it is not enough. It does not fully replace lost income, and it also does not compensate for pain and suffering. This is why many victims still look for additional legal claims outside of workers' compensation.

 

Personal Injury Lawsuits

If a third party was careless and caused the accident, the injured workers might be able to sue for personal injury. Personal injury lawsuits cover claims against an employer. This type of lawsuit holds negligent third parties accountable. 

Through a personal injury lawsuit, victims may receive financial support that goes beyond what workers' compensation provides. This includes full lost wages and limited future earning capacity.

 

Wrongful Death Claims

If a worker or bystander dies in an accident, their family members can file a wrongful death claim. These claims are meant to get compensation for damages and also to hold the people who were negligent responsible. Families can get compensation for funeral and burial costs, as well as the loss of the deceased's income and future financial support.

Wrongful death claims also serve as a powerful tool for change. It pushes employees and contractors to look for safer workplace practices that prevent future tragedies.

 

The Importance of Skilled Legal Representation

It can be hard to determine the legal options available to you. Workers' compensation, personal injury, and wrongful death claims usually overlap, and filing a lawsuit needs a careful legal strategy. 

A lawyer who has worked on these types of accidents can help you explore all of your options. 

Contact us at 479-208-6614 or visit our Contact Us page for a free consultation about your case.

 

What to Do After a Crane or Aerial Lift Accident

What you do following a crane or aerial lift accident will impact your legal rights. Most of the time, victims don't know what to do next. Yet, acting strategically can help you get fair compensation later. After an accident, you should do these things:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health is the priority. You need to have a comprehensive medical checkup even if you feel OK. Some injuries, such as internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away, but they might get worse over time. When you seek prompt treatment:

• You protect your health and start your medical recovery.
• You create official medical records connecting your injuries to the accident, which can later be used to support your personal injury claim.
• You reduce the risk of insurance companies dismissing your injuries as unrelated or caused by something else.

2. Report the Accident Properly

Every construction site or workplace accident needs to be immediately reported to supervisors or employers. Do not assume that another person will file the report for you. A formal accident report:

• Creates a written record of the accident.
• Pushes for safety reviews and internal investigations.
• Ensures OSHA and other regulatory agencies are informed if required by law.

If you skip this, liable individuals or companies may claim that the accident did not happen or that your injuries were not related to the accident.

3. Document Evidence and Injuries

Evidence usually fades quickly. Heavy machinery might be removed, or damaged parts may be repaired. To protect yourself:

• Take photos or videos of the equipment and the scene of the accident.
• Record your injuries through photographs. Also, take note of your injuries and medical treatments.
• Write down the names and contact information of people who witnessed the accident.

Your lawyer can make your case stronger with the right evidence.

4. Avoid Premature Settlements

After a crane accident, it is common for insurance companies to immediately get in touch with victims to try to keep their payouts as low as possible. They might offer you a settlement that sounds good at the moment, especially if you have medical bills to pay. But:

• Most of the time, the first offers you get are much lower than what your case is really worth.
• If you agree to a settlement, you give up your right to make more claims.
• You can't go back after you sign.

Consult with a lawyer first before accepting any type of settlement.

5. Contact a Trusted Attorney

The most important step is to contact an experienced attorney immediately.  A lawyer who is good at handling crane and aerial lift accident cases will:

• Look into the accident very carefully.
• Find out who is responsible, like your employers, contractors, manufacturers, or other people.
• Take care of all the negotiations with the insurance companies.
• Ensure you pursue the maximum compensation for your suffering.

A trusted attorney will ensure the protection of your legal rights. Let's talk to discuss your case at 816-221-0382 or visit our Contact Us page.

 

About Bautista LeRoy LLC

Bautista LeRoy LLC has a proud history of advocating for injured workers and families in Kansas City. Guided by a mission of justice and compassion, the firm has become a trusted name in personal injury law.

Bautista LeRoy LLC was established in 2011. For over a decade, the firm has consistently received recognition as one of the top personal injury law firms in both Kansas and Missouri. In 2024, we expanded our presence by opening a new office in the St. Louis Metro area, allowing us to serve clients in Madison County, Illinois. Our commitment to personal attention and proven, award-winning service sets us apart from other personal injury law firms. 

Our legal experience, however, goes back even further. Long before founding Bautista LeRoy LLC, we have been representing personal injury clients in Kansas City since the 1990s. Over the years, we have helped individuals and their families get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional pain, and long-term suffering caused by the negligence or misconduct of others. We have worked on cases for clients in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Illinois, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

In addition to crane and aerial lift accidents, our firm helps clients with a wide range of legal issues, including car accidents, treestand accidents, bike accidents, train accidents, nursing home abuse, and wrongful death cases.

Our results speak for themselves. We are recognized for taking on and winning cases against major corporations and institutions, including Norfolk Southern Railway, Wal-Mart, Toyota Motor Corporation, Uber Technologies, the Missouri Department of Transportation, and several nursing homes.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Crane and Aerial Lift Accidents

 

1. Who can be held liable for a crane or aerial lift accident?

Liability is dependent on the circumstances of the accident. Employers, contractors, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or even property owners can share responsibility. An experienced attorney will help determine liable parties and help you get the maximum possible compensation.

 

2. What should I do if I suspect my accident was caused by poor equipment maintenance?

Document evidence and include photos of the machinery if possible. Then report your concerns to your attorney. Poor maintenance is a common cause of crane and aerial lift accidents. Maintenance logs or inspection records may be vital evidence.

 

3. Can I file both a workers' compensation claim and a personal injury lawsuit?

Yes, in many cases. Workers' compensation pays for medical bills and lost wages. But it doesn't cover pain and suffering. If a third party contributed to your accident, you may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit.

 

4. What if my loved one died in a crane or aerial lift accident?

Surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. This type of lawsuit can help the bereaved family to get compensation for funeral costs and lost future income.

 

5. How long do I have to file a claim in Missouri?

In Missouri, you have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. But the deadlines can still change depending on the kind of claim. 

For your Worker's Compensation claim, however, you will need to immediately inform your employer within 30 days. You will need to file a formal Claim for Compensation (Form WC-21) with the Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation as well.

If you fail to file these claims within the time period, your claims might be denied.

 

6. Are crane and aerial lift accidents always work-related?

Most crane and aerial lift accidents usually happen on construction or industrial sites, but not all. Accidents can also involve bystanders or passersby when cranes operate near public roads or sidewalks. In those cases, injured parties can have a legal claim.

 

7. How much compensation can I expect to receive?

Compensation depends on a number of things, including the severity of your injuries. An attorney may be able to give you a clearer estimate after reviewing your case.

 

8. Do I need an attorney right away, or can I wait?

You should get in touch with an attorney as soon as possible. You can lose possible evidence, and insurance companies move quickly to protect their own interests. Having the right legal representation at the start ensures the protection of your rights.

 

Key Takeaways

Crane and aerial lift accident injuries caused by a negligent party demand serious attention. These injuries cause emotional trauma and financial stress, leaving victims and families in need of strong legal support. Having a skilled legal team is not a luxury. It is necessary when the stakes are this high.

Our attorneys boast decades of combined experience and a relentless commitment to justice. We are ready to help victims get their lives back on track. We are the trusted choice in Kansas City because of our experience and award-winning service.

If you or someone you love is affected by a crane or aerial lift accident, take the first step now toward recovery. Call Bautista LeRoy LLC today at 816-221-0382 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We work on a contingency basis. You only pay us when we win your case. Let our experienced attorneys fight for your rights, your recovery, and your future.

Summary

Employees who use cranes and aerial lifts are prone to getting into accidents. This heavy equipment can cause severe injuries to an individual if not used properly, such as overloading and poor maintenance. Victims can suffer:

• Face severe injuries
• Crush trauma
• Amputations
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal damage
• Death

An immediate response is needed after getting into a crane and aerial lift accident. This is to ensure you have no hidden injuries and assess your health. Early action can also protect your rights when issues arise and you decide to pursue a lawsuit.

• Get medical attention
• Report the accident
• Avoid quick settlements
• Call an experienced attorney

The legal team of Bautista LeRoy LLC specializes in personal injury law and has represented clients injured in crane/aerial lift accident. Our attorney's goal is to help you fully recover by pursuing maximum compensation. We will explain the legal matters clearly without using complicated words as part of our client-centric approach and personalized service.

If you are severely injured in a crane and aerial lift accident, take action as soon as possible. Our legal team is ready to guide you. Should you have any questions, reach out to us at www.bautistaleroy.com or 816-221-0382.

 

What Makes Crane And Aerial Lift Accident Cases Complicated?

It can be complicated because there could be multiple liable parties. Construction companies, equipment owners, site managers and manufacturers are all potentially responsible for the accident. This is the reason why an in-depth investigation needs to take place.

Can I Still File A Claim If I Was Partly At Fault?

Many states allow injured individuals to pursue compensation even if they have contributed to its cause. Payments may be reduced depending on the level of your fault.

What Types Of Injuries Are Common In These Accidents?

A person can suffer from minor to severe injuries that can disrupt their normal lives. 

• Crush injuries
• Head trauma
• Electrical burns 
• Permanent disability

Is Workers' Compensation My Only Option?

For workers, this is not the only option that you have. This is especially true if third parties are involved. For example:

• Faulty equipment 
• Unsafe site management

When Should I Consult An Attorney?

It is ideal to seek advice from a legal professional as soon as possible. Their early involvement also means effective evidence gathering and meeting legal deadlines. An attorney can also protect you better if you work with them from the start of the claim process.

What Compensation Might Be Available?

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Future care costs 
• Pain and suffering