Jacksonville Crane Accident Lawyer
Injured in a Crane Accident in Jacksonville, FL?
Construction sites are some of the most dangerous workplaces, and few hazards are as serious as crane accidents. Cranes are massive, complex machines designed to lift heavy materials high above the ground. While essential for modern building projects, they also pose significant risks to workers and bystanders if they are not properly maintained, operated, or secured. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crane accident, Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. is here to help. Our Jacksonville crane accident attorneys fight for victims’ rights and help them pursue the compensation they deserve.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation by calling (904) 295-1050.
What is a Crane Accident?
A crane accident refers to any incident where a crane’s malfunction, improper use, or environmental factor causes injury, property damage, or death. These accidents can happen on large-scale construction projects, smaller residential jobs, or even roadside worksites.
Crane accidents are often catastrophic because of the size and weight of the equipment involved. Victims can suffer life-altering injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, fractures, or even wrongful death. Because of their severity, crane accidents require immediate investigation and legal action to determine liability and ensure proper compensation for victims.
Common Types of Crane Accidents
Crane accidents can occur in a variety of ways. Some of the most common include:
- Crane collapses or tip-overs – When cranes are not properly stabilized or overloaded, they can collapse, crushing workers and causing widespread destruction.
- Falling loads – Heavy materials may fall from a crane due to improper rigging, defective equipment, or operator error.
- Electrocutions – Cranes often come into contact with power lines, creating a serious electrocution hazard for operators and workers nearby.
- Caught-in or struck-by accidents – Workers can be struck by swinging booms, rotating machinery, or other moving crane parts.
- Mechanical failures – Poor maintenance, defective parts, or hydraulic failures can lead to sudden and unexpected accidents.
- Falls from cranes – Operators or workers may fall while climbing onto, off of, or working from a crane.
Each type of accident can leave devastating injuries and long-term consequences for victims and their families.
Common Causes of Crane Accidents
Crane accidents are rarely “random.” They are usually the result of negligence, poor planning, or violations of safety standards. Some of the most common causes include:
- Improper training – Inexperienced or unlicensed operators may not understand safety protocols or how to properly handle heavy loads.
- Failure to follow OSHA regulations – Construction companies that cut corners on safety procedures increase the risk of serious accidents.
- Negligent supervision – Lack of oversight on construction sites often leads to unsafe practices and preventable hazards.
- Defective equipment – Faulty crane parts or manufacturing defects can result in catastrophic mechanical failures.
- Unsafe worksite conditions – Unstable ground, high winds, or poor weather can make crane operation extremely dangerous.
- Overloading the crane – Pushing a crane beyond its weight capacity is a leading cause of tip-overs and collapses.
Identifying the root cause of a crane accident is crucial in determining who should be held accountable.
Who is Liable for Crane Accidents?
Determining liability in crane accidents is often complex because multiple parties are typically involved in construction projects. Possible liable parties may include:
- Construction companies or contractors – For failing to provide proper training, supervision, or safe working conditions.
- Crane operators – If reckless or negligent operation led to the accident.
- Equipment manufacturers – If defective parts or machinery design contributed to the accident.
- Property owners or developers – If unsafe site conditions played a role.
- Third-party subcontractors – If improper rigging, maintenance, or inspections caused the accident.
In some cases, injured workers may be limited to workers’ compensation claims. However, when third parties outside of an employer’s direct control are responsible, victims may pursue additional personal injury lawsuits for full compensation, including pain and suffering, lost earning potential, and long-term care needs.
Compensation for Crane Accident Victims
Victims of crane accidents in Jacksonville may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication)
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability or permanent impairment
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and industry professionals to build strong claims for our clients. Our goal is to ensure victims receive the maximum compensation available under Florida law.
Why Choose Edwards & Ragatz, P.A.?
Navigating the aftermath of a crane accident is overwhelming. Insurance companies and contractors often move quickly to protect themselves, leaving injured workers at a disadvantage. That’s why hiring an experienced Jacksonville crane accident attorney is critical.
Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. brings years of experience handling complex construction accident claims. We provide:
- Aggressive representation against negligent companies and insurers
- Thorough investigation into the cause of the accident
- Personalized legal strategies tailored to each client’s needs
- No upfront fees — we only get paid if you win
Speak with a Jacksonville Crane Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crane accident in Jacksonville, do not wait to seek legal help. Evidence can disappear quickly, and the sooner an attorney gets involved, the stronger your case will be.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
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You Need an Experienced Team Edwards & Ragatz Has Decades of Legal Experience
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You Need a Team Focused on Results Our Team Has Record-Breaking Verdicts & Settlements
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You Need a Compassionate Team We Understand Your Situation and Work For Your Recovery