Texas Aerial Lift Construction Accident Lawyer

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Work Injury Attorneys Serving Workers Injured by Boom Lifts, Scissor Lifts & Other Equipment

Many different jobs require workers to be lifted high into the air. A wide range of aerial lifts – also known as machine lifts, man lifts, and more – are used to perform work in a variety of industries, from construction to painting to tree trimming to farming to power line repair to loading and unloading warehouses.

Unfortunately, aerial lifts are a common source of accidents in the workplace. In 2020, OSHA recorded 28 accidents involving aerial lifts. All but two of these accidents resulted in the death of one or more workers.

Multiple factors make aerial lifts dangerous. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a construction accident or other workplace accident involving an aerial lift, it is important to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.

At Patrick Daniel Law, we have the experience, resources, and tenacity to represent workers and their families effectively. Contact an aerial lift construction accident attorney by calling (713) 999-6666 today for a FREE consultation. Patrick Daniel Law serves clients in Houston, all of Texas, and nationwide.

What Causes Accidents Involving Aerial Lifts? | Patrick Daniel Law

Common Types of Aerial Lift Construction Accidents

The term “aerial lift” can refer to many different devices and machines used in the workplace. Our aerial lift accident lawyer can advise you of your rights and legal options for pursuing compensation if you sustained injury or your loved one was killed on the job by a machine lift.

Boom Lift Accidents

A boom lift consists of the following components:

  • A mobile base mounted on wheels
  • A turntable unit that rotates the lift 360 degrees
  • An extendable arm
    • The arm on a telescopic boom lift is straight
    • Articulating boom lifts have an arm with multiple joints
  • A bucket or platform that holds the worker

One of the biggest dangers associated with telescopic and articulating boom lifts is overloading the bucket. When the arm is extended, excess weight can throw the lift off balance. Workers on the platform as well as those on the ground may suffer catastrophic injuries or worse if the boom lift overturns.

Scissor Lift Accidents

Scissor lifts consist of a wheeled base, a hydraulic lift, and a platform that typically holds multiple workers. These lifts are commonly used to perform work at different elevations in the same area of a job site.

Falls from scissor lifts are common on construction sites and in other workplaces. These accidents often occur due to inadequate fall protection, typically a lack of guardrails or railings that are loose or damaged.

Cherry Picker/Bucket Truck Accidents

A cherry picker is an aerial lift mounted to the back of a heavy-duty truck. The hydraulic arm moves the bucket into position for workers to repair utility lines, clean and maintain buildings, hang signs, and more.

Workers are highly vulnerable to the weather when they are atop a cherry picker. High winds, rain, and other conditions can be extremely dangerous. Other hazards workers face on bucket trucks include excess weight, defective parts, and more.

Houston Boom Lift Injury Lawyer | Patrick Daniel Law

What Are Most Aerial Lift Construction Accidents Caused By?

Different types of aerial lifts present different dangers to workers. However, certain hazards are present no matter what type of lift you use on the job.

The most common causes of aerial lift accidents include:

  • Falls: Falls from heights (including aerial lifts) are the number-one cause of fatalities in the workplace. Workers may fall from an aerial lift if they lose their footing or reach too far over the edge of the guardrail. However, other factors typically come into play in these accidents.
    • Ex: OSHA regulations require employers to provide workers with adequate fall protection when they work on aerial lifts. Fall protection may include a harness (required on boom lifts), guardrails that fully enclose the platform (required on scissor lifts), etc.
  • Collapses: An overloaded aerial lift is an accident waiting to happen. All aerial lifts have weight limits, but it is not uncommon for the lift to become overloaded with workers, tools, and materials. Failure of the hydraulics on an aerial lift can cause workers to fall to the ground. Alternatively, the lift itself may buckle under the weight, causing it to fall over or collapse.
  • Electrocution: Electrical shock is another major cause of construction accident fatalities. Work performed at heights must be planned and supervised correctly to avoid contact with overhead power lines.
  • Contact with other objects: Aerial lifts must be spaced from structures, equipment, and other hazards. Poor positioning of the lift and errors in operation can cause the bucket to collide with other objects, potentially resulting in a fall, crush injuries, and other serious trauma.
  • Defects: Any product can suffer from defects that make it unsafe. For construction workers, faulty aerial lifts and other equipment can lead to devastating accidents.
  • Inadequate training: Employers may be cited by OSHA for aerial lift accidents where lack of training or inexperience of the operator was a factor. Unfortunately, the threat of citations is rarely enough for a construction company or a contractor to invest in employee training and certification. As a result, lifts are often operated by workers with minimal knowledge and limited appreciation of the dangers.
  • Failure to inspect: Another serious error on the part of construction companies, contractors, and other employers is a failure to inspect aerial lifts regularly and perform necessary maintenance. Wear and tear has an adverse effect on the safe operation of any type of construction equipment, potentially leading to an accident.

Workers using aerial lifts are not the only ones who may be in danger. Tip-over accidents, collapses, and objects falling from a lift can all seriously injure or kill workers immediately below and in the vicinity of the equipment.

It is crucial to investigate the cause of an aerial lift accident promptly to determine what happened and who is responsible. At Patrick Daniel Law, we are Strategic, Meticulous, and Merciless. We know what it takes to build these claims and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact an aerial lift construction accident lawyer at Patrick Daniel Law for FREE today.

What Compensation Can I Recover for an Aerial Life Accident? | Patrick Daniel

Who Is Liable for Aerial Lift Accidents?

The majority of aerial lift accidents occur in the workplace. Although you may believe that workers’ compensation will cover your injuries (and you could be right, if your employer has opted to carry insurance), benefits can be difficult to recover.

Unlike most states, Texas does not require employers to carry workers’ comp insurance. If this is the case, the only way to recover compensation is to prove that one or more parties are at fault for the aerial lift accident that caused your injuries or led to the wrongful death of your loved one.

Multiple parties may be liable for an aerial lift accident, including:

  • Your employer: State workers’ compensation programs typically bar workers from suing their employers. If your employer is uninsured, however, you have the right to sue. To recover compensation, you must be able to show that negligence on the part of your employer (such as failing to maintain the lift, failing to provide fall protection, etc.) led to the accident with an aerial lift.
    • Depending on the circumstances, your employer may also be liable for negligence on the part of a coworker. These claims generally arise from aerial lift accidents stemming from a worker who is improperly trained or fails to follow safety procedures.
  • A contractor: Construction is a complicated business. Multiple general contractors may be involved in a project, each of them responsible for hiring workers, acquiring equipment, etc. It is the contractor’s responsibility to ensure that the aerial lift is in good working order, workers know how to operate it safely, and workers using the lift have the protective equipment they need to avoid falling.
  • The manufacturer of the lift: If an aerial lift fails due to a faulty design, errors in manufacturing, and other issues, one or more companies may be included in a product liability claim. Defective product cases generally require extensive investigation and expert testimony to establish what caused the accident and who is responsible.

Read More: Who Is Liable for Aerial Lift Accidents?

Are Genie Lifts Dangerous?

Many different companies manufacture and sell aerial lift equipment. One of the most recognizable names on the market is Genie, the maker of a number of popular telescopic and articulating boom lifts, scissor lifts, vertical mast lifts, and other equipment.

A number of safety issues are associated with various Genie lifts. In 2021, Genie issued multiple safety notices due to problems with the bolts connecting the turntable to the base of select boom lift units.

Read More: Were You Injured by a Defective Aerial Lift?

In addition to the risks posed by Genie lift defects, owner noncompliance is a frequent contributor to aerial lift accidents. When an owner is notified of a safety issue and fails to take steps to correct it, this constitutes negligence.

Houston Cherry Picker Accident Attorney | Patrick Daniel Law

What Compensation Can I Recover for an Aerial Lift Accident?

Multiple factors can impact the compensation that may be available in your aerial lift accident claim. One of the most significant issues is whether or not your employer has workers’ compensation insurance.

If your employer is insured, workers’ comp will pay medical benefits and a percentage of your average weekly wage if you are unable to work. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits (a percentage of the deceased worker’s average weekly wage) and burial expenses if a worker is killed on the job.

Because Texas does not require employers to have workers’ compensation insurance, the sad reality is most construction workers will need to sue in order to recover fair compensation for their injuries. Although proving fault for an aerial lift accident can be challenging, the advantage of a personal injury or product liability claim is that you can pursue recovery of all of the damages in your case.

Potential damages in an aerial lift accident claim include:

  • Medical expenses (both current and future)
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity (if you are unable to work after the accident)
  • Other expenses you incur, such as paying for assistive devices, modifications to your home and car, household services, travel for medical appointments, etc.
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental and emotional distress
  • Disability
  • Loss of consortium (a general term for the loss of society, companionship, and services to your family)

If your loved one died in an aerial lift accident, you and your family can pursue compensation for all of your losses in a wrongful death claim. You may be entitled to recovery of medical expenses prior to your relative’s death, costs associated with a funeral and burial or cremation, loss of your loved one’s income, pain and suffering, loss of society and companionship, and more.

Fair compensation in any workplace accident claim can be difficult to calculate. You may not have to settle for workers’ comp benefits alone. Aerial lift accident lawyer Patrick Daniel will fully investigate to determine who is at fault and aggressively pursue recovery of all of the damages you and your family have sustained.

Houston Genie Boom Lift Accident Attorney | Patrick Daniel Law

Building Your Aerial Lift Construction Accident Claim

The importance of prompt investigation after an aerial lift accident cannot be overstated. Employers, contractors, and other parties may simply try to write off the accident as “nobody’s fault” and get back to business. However, this is far easier said than done for the workers who are seriously injured in aerial lift accidents, as well as the families left to grieve the loss of a loved one.

Until you hire a lawyer, you do not have anyone looking out for your best interest. It is important to act quickly to protect your legal rights and preserve your claim.

Attorney Patrick Daniel partners with a leading expert in aerial lifts to build an effective claim on your behalf. Expert testimony can help establish crucial facts about how and why the aerial lift accident occurred, including:

  • The condition of the aerial lift (i.e., was the lift properly inspected and maintained)
  • Whether the aerial lift suffered from any defects
  • Operational errors that may have led to the aerial lift accident

We hire professional investigators to collect evidence, take photographs, speak to witnesses, and more. Our firm also works with other expert witnesses – such as medical experts, economists, and others – to calculate the full extent of damages in your claim accurately.

Patrick Daniel Law has extensive experience handling claims involving construction accidents, farm equipment injuries, and other workplace accidents where aerial lift defects and negligence are a factor. We understand the complexity of these cases, and our team will do the hard work so you can focus on healing.

Damages in an Aerial Lift Accident Claim | Patrick Daniel Law

Frequently Asked Questions

While instrumental in construction and maintenance tasks, aerial lifts present significant risks if not used properly. According to the Center for Construction Research and Training, aerial lifts are involved in roughly 26 deaths and numerous injuries in the construction industry each year in the United States. These figures prove the need for strict adherence to OSHA’s safety protocols and proper training in operating such equipment.

Injuries from aerial lifts can range from falls and electrocutions to being caught between the lift and other structures. The causes often include mechanical failures, lack of safety equipment, or operator errors. It’s important to note that these are preventable incidents.

Read More: What Are the Causes of Aerial Lift Accidents?

In Houston, where construction is a significant part of the city’s growth and infrastructure development, the potential for aerial lift accidents is notably present. Victims of such accidents face not only physical injuries but also the burden of medical expenses, loss of income, and emotional trauma.

An aerial lift injury lawyer can be instrumental if you or a loved one have been injured in an aerial lift accident. Patrick Daniel Law, known for a Strategic. Meticulous. Merciless. approach, is dedicated to ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve for their losses.

OSHA defines an aerial lift as a device used to elevate workers to various heights, which encompasses a broad range of equipment. According to OSHA standards, aerial lifts include extendable boom platforms, aerial ladders, articulating (jointed) boom platforms, vertical towers, and any combination of these. This definition is comprehensive, ensuring that a variety of equipment used across different industries for elevating workers is covered under safety regulations.

These devices are commonly seen in construction, maintenance, and utility work, providing access to high or hard-to-reach areas. While they offer significant utility, they also pose risks like falls, electrocutions, and collapses if not used correctly. Recognizing the variety of aerial lifts under this definition allows OSHA to implement and enforce specific safety guidelines and training requirements for each type of equipment to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.

Aerial lifts are generally considered safe when operated correctly and under proper safety protocols. However, their safety largely depends on adherence to the guidelines set by OSHA.

OSHA provides comprehensive safety standards (29 CFR 1926.453) designed to mitigate risks associated with aerial lifts. Key safety measures include:

  • Proper Training: Operators must be adequately trained in the use and operation of aerial lifts.
  • Regular Inspections: Equipment should be inspected regularly to ensure it is in good working condition.
  • Use of Safety Gear: Operators are required to use safety gear like harnesses and lanyards to prevent falls.
  • Adherence to Load Limits: Overloading an aerial lift can lead to tip-overs and collapses.
  • Avoiding Hazardous Conditions: Operators should avoid using aerial lifts in high winds or other dangerous weather conditions.

Despite these safety measures, accidents can still occur due to equipment malfunctions, operator error, or inadequate training. In the event of an aerial lift accident, consulting with a Houston aerial lift injury attorney is essential.

When comparing aerial lifts and ladders in terms of safety, aerial lifts are generally considered safer for several reasons, particularly when used for tasks at significant heights or requiring extended durations. This assessment is based on the design, stability, and safety features that aerial lifts provide.

Key reasons why aerial lifts are often safer than ladders include:

  • Stability
  • Safety Features
  • Work Efficiency
  • Reduced Physical Strain

However, it’s crucial to note that the safety of aerial lifts greatly depends on proper use, adherence to OSHA standards, and regular maintenance. Improper use or failure to follow safety protocols can lead to aerial lift accidents and injuries.

Boom lifts, like any heavy equipment, have the potential to tip over under certain circumstances. While they are designed for stability and safety, the risk of tipping over exists, especially if the lift is used improperly or in unsuitable conditions. Understanding the factors that can lead to a boom lift tipping over is important for safe operation.

Key factors contributing to boom lift tip-overs include:

  • Overloading: Exceeding the weight limit of the lift can cause imbalance and lead to a tip-over.
  • Ground Conditions: Operating on uneven, unstable, or slippery surfaces increases the risk of tipping.
  • Incorrect Positioning: Extending the boom at an inappropriate angle or overreaching can cause the lift to become unstable.
  • High Winds: Operating a boom lift in high winds can upset the balance, especially at higher elevations.
  • Lack of Training: Operators lacking proper training may inadvertently misuse the equipment, increasing the risk of accidents.

Adhering to safety guidelines is critical in minimizing the risk of tip-overs. Regular maintenance, proper training, and situational awareness are vital in ensuring the safe use of boom lifts.

In a boom lift accident in Texas, contacting a Houston aerial lift injury lawyer is advisable. Law firms with experience in construction accidents, such as Patrick Daniel Law, can provide valuable legal guidance and support, ensuring that victims’ rights are protected and they receive appropriate compensation for their injuries.

Fall protection in aerial lifts is a fundamental safety requirement mandated by OSHA. The type of fall protection required depends on the kind of aerial lift used and the nature of the work being performed. Generally, the following fall protection measures are required:

Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS)

For boom-supported aerial lifts, such as boom lifts or cherry pickers, OSHA mandates the use of PFAS. This system includes a full-body harness and a lanyard or lifeline that attaches to a secure anchor point on the lift.

Guardrails

Scissor lifts and other types of vertical lifts are typically equipped with guardrails. While these may be sufficient in some scenarios, depending on the work and the employer’s safety policy, additional personal fall protection equipment might be required.

Training

OSHA requires that all operators be trained in the proper use of fall protection equipment. This includes understanding how to inspect the equipment, correctly wear a harness, and attach lanyards or lifelines properly.

Regular Inspections

Fall protection equipment must be inspected regularly for wear, damage, or deterioration. Damaged equipment must be replaced immediately.

Aerial lifts are commonly used in construction and industrial projects. Ensuring compliance with these fall protection requirements is essential for worker safety.

Read More: Know the Risks of Falling from Heights in Construction

The necessity of tying off, or using a personal fall arrest system, in an aerial lift is a crucial aspect of operator safety. According to OSHA, it is generally recommended that operators tie off when working in an aerial lift. This practice is vital in preventing falls, which are among the leading causes of serious work-related injuries and deaths in construction.

Key considerations for tying off in an aerial lift include:

  • OSHA Requirements: OSHA standards mandate fall protection in aerial lifts. The specifics can vary depending on the type of lift and the situation.
  • Type of Aerial Lift: For boom-supported lifts, such as boom lifts or cherry pickers, OSHA requires a personal fall arrest system. The necessity of additional fall protection might vary for scissor lifts, which have guardrails.
  • Risk of Ejection: In boom lifts, there’s a risk of being ejected from the bucket if the lift is moved suddenly or unevenly. Tying off correctly can prevent falls in these scenarios.
  • Employer’s Safety Policies: Employers may have their own safety policies that go beyond OSHA requirements, necessitating tying off at all times.

Adherence to these safety protocols is not just a matter of regulatory compliance but also critical for worker safety. In aerial lift accidents, especially where fall protection protocols were not properly followed, consulting a Houston aerial lift injury attorney is essential for pursuing just compensation for your injuries.

Contact an Aerial Lift Construction Accident Lawyer Today

Despite their usefulness on the job site, aerial lifts can be extremely dangerous. From lack of fall protection to defects to insufficient training, workers in construction and other industries face a number of risks when using this equipment.

If the worst happens and an aerial lift accident occurs, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. Patrick Daniel has been recognized by America’s Top 100 Attorneys as a High Stakes Litigator in areas such as construction accidents and product liability. He is distinguished by his willingness to take complex cases to trial, as well as the results he achieves for clients.

Every member of our team embodies our core values of exceptional legal service and dedication to winning. We are Strategic, Meticulous, and Merciless, and we are here for you.

If you were seriously injured or lost a loved one in an aerial lift accident, please call Patrick Daniel Law at (713) 999-6666 today for a FREE case review. Our aerial lift accident lawyer serves clients throughout Houston, all of Texas, and nationwide.

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