While there are many benefits to the continued rise in construction in New Jersey, one side effect is the proliferation of construction vehicles on New Jersey roads. Unfortunately, this can lead to more than just traffic congestion. While the majority of these vehicles arrive safely to their destination, the sad truth is that accidents involving large construction vehicles often involve devastating injury.
This is particularly true of mobile cranes, which are increasingly being used on residential and commercial development projects throughout New Jersey.
Rear-end collisions are a leading cause of accidents
Mobile cranes require twice the time to stop as even large tractor-trailer trucks. It is unsurprising that rear-end collisions are therefore a leading cause of accidents involving mobile crains, according to ProSight Specialty Insurance.
Unfortunately, serious injury can result in a mobile crane accident, particularly if the accident involved the undercarriage of the vehicle.
OSHA stepping in
The Occupational Health And Safety Administration is issuing new rules regarding liability for mobile crane accidents in November. Previously, the liability and safety responsibility was placed solely on the crane operator. However, many people can be involved in the transportation and placement of a crane. Under the new guidelines, if a contractor or developer is responsible for placing a crane in an unsafe location, they will be liable for resulting injury and/or damage to property.
Construction sites can be dangerous places
When we think of crane accidents, we typically think of the cranes that soar above New York City skylines. However, mobile cranes are all over New Jersey on a variety of construction sites, including two and three story residential projects. These mobile cranes can be just as deadly as the crane collapses that make national news.
Both injured workers and pedestrians may be able to obtain compensation for injuries resulting in a crane accident. Families of those killed can get compensation and a measure of justice through a wrongful death lawsuit.
While the continued increase in construction is a cause for celebration, it underscores the need for developers, contractors and workers to exercise caution for the duration of the project.