Construction
accidents result in injury and damage, which oftentimes result from negligence
and/or the malfunction of construction or commercial equipment. Crane accidents
can be classified as a subgenre of construction accidents. Eponymously, a crane
accident results in any injury or damage resulting from the operation of a
crane. 

What is a Crane?

A crane is a piece of mechanical equipment
that is utilized to lift and move heavy objects. Cranes consist of a large arm
that extends from a base. While the earliest incarnation of cranes were mounted
and operated by lever and pulley systems, the most advanced cranes can extend
hundreds of feet while being mounted from vehicles or various platforms. Due to
their large size(s), cranes can not only lift heavy objects, but also move them
to otherwise unreachable destinations due to locational restriction(s). 

Why do Crane Accidents Occur?

Crane accidents can occur for a variety of
reasons, but the most common types of crane accidents result from two primary
causes: malfunction and negligence. Due to its height and complex mechanical
design, even the simplest flaw within a crane’s construction can result in a
crane accident, regardless of the integrity and experience of its operator.
However, in the event that an individual is not skilled in crane operation, or
is operating the crane in a negligent, unsafe manner, a crane can be an
extremely dangerous piece of machinery.

What are Some Types of Crane Accidents?

Damage or injury as a result of a dropped item is a
rather common crane accident. Although the causes for this type of crane
accident are vast, should a crane drop an item that it was being operated to
move, the results can be catastrophic. The weight of the object, in addition to
its elevation, can contribute to the severity of the damage or injury sustained
by the collision. 

Damage or injury as a result from a crane’s hook is
another type of crane accident. Most cranes utilize a hook affixed to the arm
in order to grasp and lift objects. However, the hook itself can be quite heavy.
Unfastened hooks permitted to swing wildly can cause property damage, as well
as personal injury depending on the velocity.

Damage or injury resulting from an unbalanced or
improperly mounted crane has resulted in many crane accidents. In the event
that the weight of the object being lifted exceeds that of the mount, cranes
have been known to topple or tip. This type of accident not only poses a danger
for individuals and items surrounding the crane, but also to the crane operators
themselves. 

How to Investigate a Crane Accident?


Cranes, akin to all types of construction
equipment and machinery, must be operated, inspected, maintained, and utilized
in proper fashion. Furthermore, cranes must operate within the legal parameters
of a construction zone. The unsafe or unlawful operation of a crane can not
only result in property damage, but injury as well. Attorneys specializing in
construction accidents will be able to assist individuals in assessing damage
and injuries sustained by crane accidents, as well as assist in the research
and accumulation of construction zone operational codes. 

A fatal
accident is an accident that results in the death of one or more individuals.
Fatal accidents are classified as a type of preventable death, which exist as
anomalies and occur out of the ordinary. Within the United States, the number
of fatal accidents and preventable deaths reaches upwards of 105,000 cases on
an annual basis.

The Nature of Fatal Accidents


Although all fatal accidents result in death, the
expediency of death varies. While some fatal accidents result in sudden death,
others result in eventual death. Examples of fatal accidents resulting in
sudden death and those that result in eventual death are similar. However, the
severity of the injury sustained designates the duration of time prior to
death.

The
reason(s) for the death of two passengers involved in a fatal car accident can
vary in nature, while existing within the scope of a fatal accident. While one
passenger may have been killed immediately by blunt-force trauma due to the car
accident, the other could have died three days later from a collapsed lung
resulting from that same car accident. Regardless of the expediency of the
respective fatalities, both of these cases are classified as fatal accidents.

Fatal Accident Liability

The nature of the term “accident” suggests that an
event is unplanned, yet there exists a wide range of liability, fault, and
analysis upon the investigation of a fatal accident. Fatal accidents resulting
from negligence are considered to be involuntary. This means that although the
accident occurred due to negligence, the event lacks malice and/or
premeditation. In these cases, the individual responsible for the negligent
act(s) is considered to be held responsible, and thus liable, for the fatal
accident.

The
following are some examples of negligent fatal accidents:

Vehicular manslaughter resulting from reckless
operation of a motor vehicle, driving under the influence, or driving while
intoxicated;

Unlawful operation of equipment, machinery, or
specialized tools deemed unsafe in a civilian setting, such as construction
accidents and/or death in the workplace, due to negligence;

Unlawful, untrained, careless, and/or impaired
operation of a firearm that results in fatality;

Fatal accidents resulting from faulty products
and/or defective manufacturing;

The irresponsible and unlawful sale of
substances.

Legal Recourse for Fatal Accidents


Fatal accidents resulting from chance occurrences
in which no fault is attributed can still retain certain levels of liability,
yet the level of liability tends to be far less severe than liability assigned to
fatal accident cases resulting from negligence. Individuals involved in fatal
accidents, which do not illustrate expressed fault or liability, are encouraged
to consult with attorneys specializing in cases involving fatal accidents. The
assessment of a fatal accident case by a legal expert can shed light on
pertinent, and oftentimes overlooked, details of the case. 

A forklift
accident is classified as a construction accident that occurs through the use
of a forklift. A forklift is a piece of construction machinery that is used to
both lift and transport heavy objects. 

What is a Forklift?


A forklift is comprised of a bed, or palette, that
is affixed to a vehicle, which allows it mobility. Within the cabin of a
forklift sits an operator with access to the controls of both the movement of
the vehicle, as well as the movement of the bed. The bed can be raised,
lowered, extended, or retracted. The earliest incarnations of forklifts
consisted of treated wheels, while the latest modifications to forklifts
consist of streamlined wheel systems that allow for better traction, a smoother
ride, and a heightened center of gravity. 

Types of Forklift Accidents


Forklift accidents that involve dropped
objects are some of the most common. These types of accidents can include
objects falling off the bed of the forklift, as well as objects falling as a
result of contact with the bed of the forklift. In many cases, forklift
accidents that result in dropped objects can injure the operator of the
forklift and/or individuals in the perimeter of the dropped object.
Furthermore, dropped objects can cause property damage to the surrounding area,
as well as to the object itself.

Forklift accidents that involve the
tipping or tumbling of the forklift are also quite common. These types of
accidents occur as a result of faulty weight distribution in the scope of the
operation of the forklift. In the event that an object being lifted by a
forklift disrupts the inherent balance of the forklift’s center of gravity, the
force of the object against the bed can cause the forklift to tip or tumble.

Forklift accidents that involve the
puncturing, piercing, or striking of an object are also common accidents. These
types of accidents occur as a result of contact between the bed of the forklift
and another object or individual. There have been a number of reported deaths
as a result of this type of forklift accident.

Forklift accidents that result in the
ejection of the operator have caused a number of deaths as well. These types of
accidents occur as a result of a collision, in which the operator is thrown
from the cabin of the forklift.

Forklift Accident Safety and Recourse

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) requires strict certification measures and safety requirements while
operating a forklift. Operators who have been injured due to negligent work
conditions, faulty machinery, or a hazardous work environment may be eligible for
compensation as a result of any injury or damage sustained as a result of a
forklift accident. The proper training and experience is imperative for those
operating a forklift, and it is the responsibility of any and all foremen to
ensure that these requirements are being met. An attorney specializing in
forklift accidents – or other personal injury cases – will be able to assist in
the assessment of such a matter. 

Bike
accidents can be classified as any accident that takes place involving one or
more cyclist. Although bike accidents can occur in a wide range of
circumstances, traffic-related bike accidents, such as those involving vehicles,
are amongst the most common within the legal spectrum.

Types of Bike Accidents

A. A contact bike accident is one that results
from direct contact between a bike and a vehicle, pedestrian, or other object.
As the name suggests, an accident can only be classified as contact accident
upon physical contact between two objects. An example of a contact bike
accident is a vehicle striking a cyclist on a street.

B. A stationary, contact bike accident is result
of a cyclist having impact with a stationary object. Some of the most common
stationary, contact bike accidents occur as a result of the opening of a car
door as the unsuspecting cyclist passes. This is known within the biking
community as “Dooring”. Dooring can not only be dangerous for the cyclist, but
can also injure the individual exiting a vehicle. Dooring can also result in
damage of personal property.

C. A non-contact bike accident results from indirect
contact between a bike and vehicle, pedestrian, or other object. Unlike a
contact accident, a non-contact accident can be caused in an attempt to avoid
an accident. An example of a non-contact bike accident is a vehicle unlawfully
operating in a driving lane, which causes a cyclist to swerve and fall.
Although there was no direct contact, the event has nonetheless resulted in an
accident.

Bike Lanes


In many cities, there exist bike lanes, which are
areas of roadways that are specifically designated for the operation of bikes
and cyclists. Due to the fact that bike lanes exclude automotive vehicles, this
allows for lessened opportunities for bike accidents to occur.

Identifying a Bike Lane

Although there are no nationwide, uniform
designating symbols for the identification of bike lanes, they can be found on
either side of the street. While some cities display a bicycle symbol in order
to designate bike lanes, other cities illustrate bike lanes with alternate
coloring.

Right of Way

The laws for safe cycling vary from state to state
and country to country. Adherence to safe bicycling protocol is the most
effective way to avoid bike accidents. In the busiest cities, cyclists must not
only adhere to all vehicular traffic laws, but must also ride “with traffic”. This
means that cyclists must operate their bikes in the same direction as the flow
of traffic. However, in residential areas, cyclists may be permitted to ride “opposite
traffic”.

Results of Bike Accidents

A. Bike accidents can result in both physical
injury and pain and suffering.

B. Bike accidents can result in damaged property.

C. Upon sustaining damage or injury as a result of
a bike accident, one is encouraged to consult with legal representation in
order to investigate options of recourse and compensation. Regardless of the
nature of the accident, compensation can be awarded without direct contact
between a bike and another vehicle. 

A boat
accident can be classified by any accident in which one or more marine vessels
is involved. Although boat accidents share many similarities to car accidents,
such as damage and injury sustained as a result of collision(s), boat accidents
possess an added element of danger due to the presence of water. Drowning
accounts for upwards of 7,000 deaths per year. The added danger of drowning in
tandem with physical injury, in addition to property damage, allow for boat
accidents to be some of the most potentially dangerous accidents. However, with
proper training, participation in safety courses, and certification, boat
accidents can be avoided. 

Types of Boat Accidents

Boat accidents vary from large, commercial vessels
to small, private boats. Furthermore, boating accidents can range from injuries
sustained on cruise ships to those sustained while participating in water
sports, such as water skiing and wakeboarding. 

While boat accidents can involve both damage and
injury due to collision, the United States Civil Air Patrol unit reports that
upwards of 70 percent of boat accident fatalities result from drowning. Other
causes of boat accidents include improper and/or reckless operation.

DWI Boating Laws: Boating laws involving the
improper operation of a boat while intoxicated mirror DUI laws in their
respective place of operation. For example, in a state where the legal limit is
.08 blood alcohol content (BAC) for the operation of a motor vehicle, the same
applies for the legal operation of a boat. Furthermore, the penalties are
mirrored, as well. Depending on the severity of the boat accident, penalties for
DWI boat accidents can include fines, loss of boating licenses, and jail time. 

Certifications

Boat Operator’s Certificate/Boat License: The
protocols for legal operation of boats vary from state to state. In certain
states, obtaining a boat license must be achieved through the Marine Services
Bureau, while other states require the acquisition of a boating license through
the Department of Parks and Wildlife. Every state not only maintains a standard
of legal age to operate a boat, but also a regiment of courses and examinations
to earn a boating license. Boat accidents resulting from the improper or
illegal operation of a boat can result in the loss, revocation, or suspension
of a boating license. 

Boat Operators Insurance: Akin to vehicle
insurance, the operation of a boat requires the owner/operator to possess
insurance. Boating insurance not only covers the owner/operator of a boat, but
also covers damage or injury sustained by, or as a result of, that specific
owner/operator. The operation of a boat without insurance is both unlawful and
illegal. 

Lifesaving Courses: As previously stated, over 70
percent of fatal boating accidents result from drowning. The completion of a
lifesaving course such a lifeguard certification and/or CPR can prevent
drowning resulting from boat accidents. 

Safe Operation

Life jackets and life vests
should always be worn by every individual on the boat.

Alcohol – or any other
mind-altering substance – should never be ingested while operating a boat.

In the event of damage or
injury sustained as a result of a boat accident, individuals are encouraged to
consult with legal professionals in order to evaluate the details of their
respective cases. There exist attorneys who specialize in boat accidents.

Gymnastics
accidents are classified within the scope of athletic, or sports accidents, that
can range in severity. Due to the wide range of gymnastic activities, there
also exist a wide range of potential gymnastic accidents to which gymnasts may
succumb. 

Danger Latent within Gymnastics


Without proper training – and in certain
cases, even with proper training – gymnastic accidents can take place. Due to
the elevated and aerial motions and maneuvers inherent within the sport itself,
the chances of injuries are heightened. The rigorous expectations and maneuvers
exuded by even the most trained gymnasts can result in gymnastic accidents if
either the timing or placement of such exertions is not perfect. This is not to
say that participation in gymnastics should be avoided. However, the strict
safety precautions instituted by the United States Gymnastic Association (USGA)
must be met in order to reduce the chances of gymnastics accidents. 

USGA Regulations

Although the parameters and specifications
vary depending on the gymnasium in which gymnastic equipment exists, the USGA
maintains strict requirements for the maintenance, operations, and upkeep of
all professional-grade gymnastics equipment. Furthermore, only padding and
protective gear that has been both endorsed and/or sponsored by the USGA is deemed
acceptable for use in competitive gymnastics.

Type of Gymnastics Accidents

The Pommel horse is considered to be one of the
primary and most recognizable pieces of gymnastics equipment. The Pommel horse
consists of a padded bar that sits atop a metal stand with fitted handles. From
top to floor, a Pommel horse measures 3.77 feet. Gymnastics accidents involving
the Pommel horse have included a gymnast being ejected from the horse and
impact between a gymnast’s body part and the horse. Without proper padding
beneath the Pommel horse, a gymnast is liable to be injured due to slips and
falls from the Pommel horse.

The parallel bars are amongst the most dangerous
of all gymnastics equipment and are responsible for the majority of gymnastics
accidents that take place. Parallel bars measure 6.6 feet from bar to floor and,
as a result, slips and falls resulting from mistakes during routines can result
in injury. Gymnastics accidents involving the parallel bars have included
paralysis, broken bones, and brain injury. Due to their height, gymnasts
without proper training or proper protection are encouraged to avoid
participation in parallel bar routines. 

The rings are an example of elevated gymnastics
equipment that can sit upwards of nine feet from floor to ring. Akin to the
parallel bars, mistakes in gymnastics routines can lead to serious injury due
to the height of the rings. 

Gymnastic Accident Precautions and Recourse

Regardless of the level of gymnastic activities,
which can range from physical education in schools to a professional level,
proper precautions must be taken. Not only must the equipment be in proper
working order, but the protective measures must be maintained. Although there
exists inherent risk in the participation of gymnastic activity, injuries
sustained as a result of negligence should be explored and assessed by legal
professionals specializing in such matters.