Crane Collapse In NYC Injures 12 Civilians

Last Wednesday, a crane in the heart of Midtown Manhattan partially collapsed, injuring 12 people. While there were no fatalities, this accident proves that negligent actions can lead to many innocent bystanders suffering potentially serious injuries as a result. Learn more about the accident’s details and how to seek justice for your injuries if an event like this ever happens to you.

The Accident

Last Wednesday morning, a construction crane on a high-rise building on 10th Avenue and 41st Street suddenly burst into flames. These flames weakened its cables and caused it partially collapse onto the street below and strike a neighboring building. While the crane operator noticed the fire, they failed to extinguish it before causing further damage. Nine civilians and three firefighters were injured, and the NYPD closed off the area surrounding the accident.

What Causes Crane Accidents?

While deaths related to crane accidents are rare, at an average of 42 per year, they happen for many reasons. A few of the most common causes are:

  • Lack of maintenance
  • Crane collapses
  • Being struck by crane loads
  • Failure to follow safety procedures

For instance, investigators suspect that a rupture in a hydraulic line within the crane may have caused the fire that led to the NYC crane collapse. However, regardless of the cause, regular safety checks and maintaining equipment are crucial to preventing accidents like these in the future. 

Who Would Be Responsible For Your Injuries?

It can be challenging to identify the main culprit, and several parties can potentially be held liable for your injuries. These could include the crane owner, the construction company, contractors, or even equipment manufacturers if defective parts were the main cause of the accident. In the recent crane collapse, the crane’s operator and company, New York Crane and Equipment Corp, could be held accountable for what happened.

Steps To Take If You’re Involved In A Crane Accident

If you’re ever the victim of a crane accident, remember that you have the right to seek justice for your injuries. Here are a few crucial steps you should take:

  • Seek medical attention immediately: Your health comes before anything else. Even if you’ve only suffered minor injuries, the true extent of the damages may not be apparent at first. Medical treatments also serve as evidence once you file your claim.
  • Report the incident: As soon as you’ve been treated for your injuries, notify the proper authorities about the accident’s details
  • Document the event: Take pictures, videos, and detailed notes about the accident. If any witnesses were present, their statements could also help strengthen your claim in court.

Our Attorneys Are Here To Help

Even if crane accidents like the one in NYC are rare, they still happen and have lifelong consequences, both physical and emotional, for the victims involved. If you or your loved one has been affected by a crane accident, our experienced New York personal injury lawyers will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve. Please contact us online or call us at (866) 839-5886 if you have any questions or want to schedule a free consultation today.