While it is possible to sustain an injury in any profession, those occurring in the construction industry are often the worst. This is due to the work itself as well as the heavy equipment that is often involved.

Earlier this week a man survived a construction accident in Winfield Township. At the time of the accident the man was operating a crane on a bridge that was being resurfaced, located on Mushroom Farm Road. The man was trapped after the crane fell close to 95 feet from the bridge.

When rescue personnel reached the man, he was conscious. They attempted to use airbags to lift the machine and free the man but ultimately dug him out with shovels. As a result of the accident the man reportedly lost a foot.

The man was employed by Russell Standard. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation apparently contracted with the company to complete the resurfacing.

A representative with PennDOT said that though the crane was new, equipment malfunction appears to be the cause of the incident.

Though undoubtedly happy to be alive, the accident will change the crane operator's life forever. Fortunately, because every business in Pennsylvania must carry workers' compensation insurance, benefits should be available. These policies make it possible for a person injured at work to file a claim to help cover expenses related to the work accident. Depending on the specifics of the accident, the injured worker may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party as well.

Source: WPXI, "Crane Falls Off Butler Co. Bridge; Operator Survives," Nov. 21, 2011