Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
Crane accidents on Manhattan construction sites can cause devastating harm in seconds. New York’s workers’ compensation system should cover medical treatment and lost wages after a crane accident, but insurers often try to minimize payouts or delay claims. A crane accident lawyer in Manhattan can help you fight for the benefits you are owed.
Shulman & Hill Injury Lawyers has recovered over $1 billion for injured workers and has more than 200 years of combined legal experience since opening our doors in 2013. Our deep familiarity with New York Labor Law and the state’s Scaffold Law gives you an edge in crane accident cases.
Our firm is based in Manhattan with offices in every borough, so help is always close by. Contact our workers’ compensation lawyer in Manhattan today to schedule a consultation and find out what your case may be worth.
How Crane Accidents Happen on New York City Job Sites
In Manhattan, tight spaces, street traffic, adjacent buildings, and pressure to keep projects moving can increase the chance of harm. A single mistake in planning, communication, rigging, operation, or maintenance can lead to a falling load, collapse, tip-over, or struck-by event.
You may be injured while working high above ground, standing below a suspended load, or simply walking near a site. Our Manhattan personal injury lawyers have seen many such cases.
Common Causes of Crane Accident Injuries in Manhattan
Many crane accident claims begin with a review of what went wrong before the incident. We look at site conditions, equipment records, witness accounts, training issues, and whether safety rules were followed.
Common causes may include:
- Improper rigging or overloading
- Mechanical failure or poor maintenance
- Operator error or lack of training
- Unsafe site planning or poor supervision
- Falling materials or unsecured loads
Who May Be Liable for Your Losses
A crane accident case may involve more than one responsible party. While workers’ compensation may cover you if you were hurt on the job, a separate third-party claim may also be available against someone other than your direct employer.
Depending on the facts, liable parties may include a general contractor, property owner, subcontractor, crane company, maintenance provider, equipment manufacturer, or another outside entity. We examine contracts, site logs, inspection records, and accident reports to identify where legal responsibility may fall.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits After a Crane Injury
If you were injured while working, workers’ compensation may provide medical treatment and partial wage replacement. These benefits are available without proving fault, but insurers may still question how the accident happened or whether your condition is job-related.
You may also qualify for benefits if repetitive strain, a traumatic fall, or a struck-by event left you unable to return to work. Our crane accident attorney in Manhattan can help you pursue benefits for temporary disability, permanent impairment, and related medical care.
What Benefits May Be Available
The value of a claim depends on your injuries, your work status, and your recovery. In many cases, benefits may include payment for necessary treatment and a portion of your lost wages.
You may be able to seek:
- Medical care and rehabilitation
- Wage loss benefits during recovery
- Compensation for permanent disability
- Travel reimbursement for treatment
- Death benefits for surviving family members
When a Third-Party Lawsuit May Be Possible
Workers’ compensation usually prevents you from suing your employer directly. But if another company or person played a role in the crane accident, you may have a separate claim for damages that workers’ compensation does not pay.
A third-party lawsuit may allow you to seek compensation for pain and suffering, full lost earnings, and other losses tied to the event. These cases often arise when defective equipment, unsafe property conditions, negligent subcontractors, or outside crane operators contributed to the accident.
What to Do After a Serious Job Site Incident
The steps you take after a crane accident can affect both your health and your legal claim. Getting prompt care and documenting what happened may help protect your rights. If you are able, try to:
- Report the accident to a supervisor
- Get medical attention right away
- Follow your treatment plan closely
- Preserve photos and witness information
- Avoid giving recorded statements without counsel
How We Build a Crane Accident Claim
At Shulman & Hill, we begin by reviewing how the incident happened, who was present, and what insurance may apply. We gather medical records, job site evidence, incident reports, and employment information to support your case.
We also work to measure the full effect of the injury on your ability to earn a living and return to normal activity. Whether you need a crane accident lawyer in Manhattan for a workers’ compensation claim, a third-party case, or both, we focus on building a clear and well-supported demand.
How Long You Have to Take Legal Action
New York deadlines can affect your ability to recover benefits or file suit. Workers’ compensation notice and filing rules differ from the time limits that apply to personal injury or wrongful death claims. Most importantly, you need to report your accident to your employer to start the workers’ compensation process as soon as possible.
Waiting too long can hurt your case, especially when records and witness memories fade. Meeting with a crane accident attorney in Manhattan soon after the event can help you protect your options and avoid preventable delays. It’s better to act as soon as possible to speak with a lawyer in these cases.
Speak With Shulman & Hill About Your Case
After a crane accident, you may be facing pain, missed paychecks, and pressure from insurance companies while trying to recover. You do not have to sort through every legal issue on your own.
Shulman & Hill helps injured people in Manhattan pursue workers’ compensation benefits and third-party claims after serious construction accidents. If you or a loved one was hurt, contact our Manhattan crane accident attorneys to discuss your rights and your next steps.
