07.09.2007

Crane topples injuring driver

A mobile crane toppled yesterday in New Jersey, USA injuring its driver. The crane was working at an oceanfront redevelopment site in Asbury Park.

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Outriggers were not extended

Driver Mike Curry, 50, of Freehold, suffered cuts on his head and was taken to the Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where he was treated and released.

Asbury Park police Capt. David Kelso said it appeared the accident, which occurred shortly before 9 a.m., was caused by a failure to incorrectly set up the crane before lifting.

"It looks like the operator didn't extend the outriggers," Kelso said.

The accident occurred at the site of the 224-unit Esperanza oceanfront condominium complex being developed along Ocean Avenue by Metro Homes of Hoboken. Several of the larger units in the luxury complex have sold for as much as $2 million.

The accident is being investigated by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.