Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
If you or a loved one was injured on a job site, a crane accident lawyer in Orangetown can help you understand your options. Construction injuries can affect your health and income, and early action matters. Shulman & Hill provides guidance based on New York law and local court procedures.
Our workers’ compensation lawyer in Orangetown helps construction workers such as crane operators, riggers, signal persons, ironworkers, and laborers, as well as their families, after serious or fatal incidents. Our team handles workers’ compensation claims, third-party negligence cases, and wrongful death matters arising from crane accidents in Orangetown and across Rockland County.
Common Crane Accident Scenarios on Job Sites
Crane-related incidents can occur in a range of construction settings, including residential developments, commercial builds, and roadway projects. Each situation may involve different legal claims and insurance coverage. Common causes include:
- Load drops due to improper rigging, sling failure, or miscalculated weight
- Boom or jib collapse linked to maintenance issues or defective components
- Tip-overs caused by unstable ground, outriggers, or inadequate support
- Contact with power lines leading to electrocution or arc-related injuries
- Struck-by incidents during blind lifts or communication failures
- Weather-related conditions, including wind affecting load control
Our personal injury lawyer in Orangetown can help you pursue compensation after you’ve been injured in an accident.
Your Rights Under New York Workers’ Compensation After a Crane Injury
Most construction injuries in New York are covered by workers’ compensation, regardless of fault. You may be eligible for medical treatment, wage replacement benefits if you are unable to work, and compensation for permanent impairment.
Unlike some states, injured workers in New York may choose their own authorized treating provider. If benefits are delayed or denied, hearings before the Workers’ Compensation Board may be required.
If a family member passed away, eligible dependents may pursue death benefits under New York workers’ compensation law.
Third-Party Liability After a Crane Accident
Workers’ compensation does not provide recovery for pain and suffering, but a separate claim may be available against parties other than your employer.
These claims often involve general contractors, property owners, crane companies, equipment suppliers, or manufacturers. In New York, construction accident cases frequently involve Labor Law Sections 200, 240(1), and 241(6), which can impose liability for unsafe work conditions, particularly in elevation-related accidents.
A third-party claim may allow recovery for:
- Medical expenses not covered by workers’ compensation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring or disfigurement
Workers’ compensation carriers may assert a lien on third-party recoveries, which must be addressed during resolution.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Crane Accident
Report the incident to a supervisor as soon as possible and seek medical care. If possible, document the scene with photos of the crane, load, ground conditions, and the surrounding area. Preserve your protective equipment and clothing.
Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance representatives before speaking with counsel. Keep contact information for witnesses, contractors, and crew members involved in the operation.
Follow all medical recommendations. Consistent treatment supports both your recovery and your claim.
How Our Crane Accident Lawyer in Orangetown Builds Claims
Our crane accident lawyers gather jobsite and equipment records early, including lift plans, inspection logs, and safety documentation. Contracts and maintenance records may help identify which parties were responsible for specific operations.
We interview workers on site and review available communications, including signals or radio use. Video from nearby properties or jobsite cameras may also be preserved.
When needed, we consult industry professionals in crane operation, rigging practices, and site safety to evaluate how the incident occurred.
Deadlines and Reporting Rules in Orangetown
You should report a workplace injury to your employer within 30 days in New York. Workers’ compensation claims must generally be filed within two years of the injury or when you knew the condition was work-related.
Most third-party personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the accident. Wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years of the date of death.
If a public entity is involved, a Notice of Claim may be required within 90 days.
Union, Subcontractor, and Visitor Claims in Construction Site Cases
Construction projects in Orangetown often involve multiple contractors and subcontractors. Workers’ compensation coverage applies through your employer, but liability for unsafe conditions may extend to other parties.
Subcontractor employees, temporary workers, and site visitors may have claims depending on their role and how the incident occurred. Coverage may involve multiple insurance policies, making early investigation important.
If collective bargaining agreements apply, they may affect treatment or return-to-work considerations, which can be addressed alongside your claim.
Contact Our Crane Accident Lawyer in Orangetown
If you were injured in a crane accident in Orangetown, Shulman & Hill can review your situation and help preserve key evidence.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your options for pursuing benefits and compensation.