Crane trucks are large vehicles that can be extremely dangerous if they are not operated with care. Car accidents involving a crane truck can be unpredictable due to the possibility of a crane moving during a collision. That is why you should exercise caution when driving next to a crane truck. If you or a family member was seriously injured in a car accident with a crane truck, you should consult with an experienced Philadelphia crane truck accident lawyer.
With decades of combined legal experience, the injury lawyers at The Reiff Law Firm are prepared to represent you in your personal injury claim. Our firm will work with you to determine who is responsible for your injuries and to help you pursue a claim against that party. To schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your claim, contact The Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940, or contact us online.
Dangers of Crane Truck Accidents
Crane trucks, also known as boom trucks, are large vehicles that have a crane attached to the top of the vehicle. The crane on top of the truck is typically used for construction and to perform maintenance on downed power lines or possibly used in rescue efforts. However, if a crane truck is operated by a negligent truck driver, this could lead to catastrophic accidents. The following is a list of the dangers of crane truck accidents.
Tipping Over
The crane on a truck is designed to lift several tons of weight. This means that a crane must be sufficiently reinforced to ensure that it does not malfunction while lifting a load. However, having a large crane on top of a truck can make it difficult to maneuver that truck while driving. Specifically, the crane can affect the balance of a truck and cause it to tip over if the truck driver commits any aggressive maneuvers while driving.
A truck driver should well-trained before they are permitted to operate a boom truck. Unfortunately, some construction or trucking companies may not provide employees with adequate safety training necessary to handle a vehicle equipped with a crane.
Motorists should also be aware of a crane that appears to be overextended. The weight of the crane can cause the truck to tip over, possibly causing a serious accident depending on where it is being used.
Swinging Crane
Another serious issue with crane trucks is that they may unexpectedly move while the vehicle is in motion or when the driver causes an accident. This should not occur if the truck received consistent and adequate maintenance. Unfortunately, some construction companies may not service a crane truck as often as they need to.
If the crane on a truck unexpectedly swings into traffic, it has the potential to crush a passenger vehicle and cause fatal injuries. If you were injured due to a crane moving and striking your vehicle, the truck driver and their employer would likely be liable for your injuries.
To learn more about crane accidents and what to do after a crane truck accident, you should continue reading and speak with an experienced injury lawyer in Philadelphia.
What to Do After a Crane Truck Accident
If you were injured in a crane truck accident, there are several steps that you should take to preserve your legal claim. First, you should call an ambulance for yourself and any other injured parties and also contact law enforcement to examine the scene.
If your injuries permit you to stay at the scene of the accident, you should gather evidence for your potential personal injury case. Request the truck driver’s license, contact information, and what trucking or construction company that he or she works for. You should also document your injuries and the damage to all vehicles involved in the accident.
Once law enforcement arrives to investigate the scene of the accident, you should request a police report regarding their findings. You may not be able to use this report in court, but it will help your insurance carrier determine the cause of the accident.
If you are contacted by an agent of the insurance company representing the truck driver or their employer, you should consider referring them to your car accident lawyer. Many insurance companies will attempt to elicit a statement from you that will negatively impact your claim.
Work with a Philadelphia Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney Today
If you or a family member was the victim of a crane truck crash, you should contact an experienced Philadelphia commercial vehicle accident attorney. Being severely injured in a truck accident can leave you saddled with expensive medical bills and the inability to work for a long period of time. That is why our firm is here to help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free legal consultation, call The Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940.
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