New Orleans

Crane Accident Lawyers

Fighting for Victims of Crane Accidents in New Orleans

Construction is a dangerous industry, and one of the greatest risks to workers involves working with and on cranes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average of 42 people a year died in crane-related incidents nationwide between 2011 and 2017. A little more than half of these incidents involved workers who were struck by equipment or objects, including objects that fell from or were put in motion by cranes. 

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we recognize the serious hazards construction workers face. Crane accidents don't just happen, and people who are seriously injured deserve justice. Our New Orleans crane accident attorneys fight to hold negligent companies accountable so that injured workers and grieving families can focus on healing. We carefully investigate these cases to determine what happened and who is responsible. Our firm is known for taking on tough cases that others can't or won't—and we're known for winning the results our clients deserve. We have recovered over $1 billion in settlements and verdicts, and we are ready to fight for you, too. 

Get in touch with us today to learn how our team can help you after a crane accident in New Orleans. Call (225) 209-9943 or contact us online to get started with a free consultation. 

How Do Crane Accidents Happen & Who Is Responsible? 

The most common cause of crane accidents is human error—but these errors nearly always have underlying causes. Inadequate training, poor communication, and ignored safety protocols frequently contribute to these incidents. 

Crane accidents can also result from or be exacerbated by insufficient maintenance, defective equipment, and adverse weather conditions. In any case, determining the cause of the incident is essential for identifying who is responsible. 

Some of the most common causes of crane accidents include: 

• Operator error
• Overloaded cranes 
• Mechanical failure
• Defective parts 
• Inadequate maintenance 
• Equipment malfunction
• Poor weather conditions 

This can lead to cranes becoming unstable and tipping over, dropping loads, or coming into contact with electrical hazards. Workers can fall from cranes or be struck by falling debris or moving equipment. Cranes may collapse or collide with buildings, other construction equipment, or structures. All of these can have devastating or even deadly consequences for workers. 

Even when a crane accident results from operator error, the company that employed the crane operator or that was responsible for his or her training is often liable. This is because these entities have a legal responsibility to provide a safe workplace. Failing to provide adequate training, communicate safety protocols, or follow OSHA standards puts workers at risk, and companies that engage in such practices must be held accountable. 

Recovering Compensation After a Crane Accident in New Orleans

In Louisiana, workers injured in crane accidents while on the job may have several options for pursuing compensation. Most construction workers, including crane operators, are covered under Louisiana's workers' compensation laws. Workers' comp allows you to recover medical benefits (covering 100% of your work accident-related medical costs) and temporary or permanent wage replacement benefits, depending on the severity of your injury and resulting impairment. However, workers' compensation only covers a portion of your lost wages, and it does not provide any relief for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. For that, you will need to pursue a third-party personal injury claim.

Not everyone is eligible for a third-party work injury claim. In fact, Louisiana's workers' compensation system prohibits you from suing your employer in exchange for providing no-fault benefits after a work-related injury. 

However, you may be entitled to additional compensation outside of workers' comp if:

• You do not qualify for workers' compensation 
• You can prove that another party (not your employer) was at fault 

For example, if you were injured in a crane accident that happened because of a defective piece of machinery, you could be eligible to file a claim against the manufacturer of the defective part. If the incident occurred as a result of insufficient maintenance or ignored safety regulations, you could also be entitled to seek compensation from the liable party or parties. 

Crane accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries, and workers' compensation benefits are not enough to cover the true cost of the physical, mental, and emotional hardships victims face. That's why at Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we fight for maximum compensation for our clients, pursuing all possible avenues of recovery so that they can not only obtain the justice they deserve but also the financial restitution they need to heal and move forward with their lives. 

Representing Grieving Families in the Aftermath of Deadly Crane Accidents 

Sadly, crane accidents often have fatal consequences. When workers are put in precarious situations, it's their families who are left to pick up the pieces. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we help grieving families get the answers they need and the justice they deserve. Our team of New Orleans crane accident attorneys can help you navigate the process of filing a wrongful death claim if your loved one passed away due to a crane accident. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses related to your loved one's care, burial or funeral costs, and other damages, such as loss of financial and emotional support, love, and companionship.

We recognize that no amount of money can ever undo the tragedy you have been through, nor make up for the loss your family has experienced. But you and your loved one deserve justice, and that is our goal. We strive to hold construction companies, manufacturers, and other parties accountable, making them answer for their negligence and ensure that similar incidents do not occur again in the future. 

Why Choose Us for Your New Orleans Crane Accident Claim? 

If you or someone you love was involved in a crane accident, Clayton, Frugé & Ward is here to help. 

As your legal team, we will: 

• Meet with you to discuss your potential case at no cost 
• Answer any questions you may have 
• Maintain open and honest communication 
• Work tirelessly to secure justice on your behalf 

We do not back down from tough fights. In fact, our willingness to take on complex cases other law firms won't has allowed us to recover record-setting settlements and verdicts for our clients statewide. Our crane accident lawyers in New Orleans know what it takes to effectively advocate for you and the recovery you need and deserve. Reach out to us today to learn more, including how our firm can help you take the next steps in the legal process.

Call (225) 209-9943 to speak to an attorney at Clayton, Frugé & Ward today.

New Orleans Crane Accident FAQ

What Should I Do After a Crane Accident? 

If you were involved in a crane accident, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention if you have not already done so. Once you have been treated by a medical professional, notify your employer about the incident as soon as possible. Keep records of everything, including copies of your medical records, the official incident report, and all communications with your employer. It's best to have everything in writing. 

Next, you'll want to reach out to a knowledgeable New Orleans crane accident lawyer. Whether you wish to pursue workers' compensation benefits, want to learn more about filing a third-party work injury claim, or have lost a loved one due to a crane accident and need help with a wrongful death lawsuit, an attorney at Clayton, Frugé & Ward can help you understand your options and guide you in taking the next steps. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Crane Accident in New Orleans?

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations (or amount of time you have to file) for personal injury lawsuits depends on when the incident occurred. If you were injured on or after July 1, 2024, you have two years from the date of the injury to sue for damages. If the injury occurred before July 1, 2024, you have just one year to bring your lawsuit. This limited timeframe makes it important to consult with a crane accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the applicable period. Acting promptly also helps ensure that all necessary evidence and documentation are preserved, which is crucial for building a strong case.

Can Multiple Parties Be Held Liable in a Crane Accident?

Yes, multiple parties can be held liable in a crane accident, including employers, equipment manufacturers, and subcontractors. Employers may be responsible for providing a safe working environment, while equipment manufacturers could be liable for providing faulty products. Subcontractors involved in construction may also share liability if their negligence contributed to the accident. Identifying all responsible parties can be complex, which is why having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference. 

What Compensation Can I Receive From a Crane Accident Claim?

Victims of crane accidents can seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The specific compensation depends on the extent of injuries, impact on quality of life, and degree of negligence involved. Our firm is dedicated to securing the highest possible compensation for our clients, utilizing our extensive experience and resources to build a compelling case.