Altec Digger Derrick Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Altec Digger Derrick Lawsuit Overview

Altec Digger Derrick lawsuits center on claims against the manufacturer for severe injuries and deaths resulting from equipment failures and defects.

The primary allegations involve faulty fasteners that can cause the pedestal to separate from the turntable, as well as missing safety information for combined use operations.

Multiple recalls have affected thousands of units across various Altec models from 2016-2020.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has highlighted the severe risk of injury or death associated with these defects, particularly for operators and nearby workers.

Latest Altec Digger Derrick Lawsuit Updates

• April 2025: The NHTSA has issued a Safety Recall Report for 2024-2025 Altec Digger Derricks. This recall identified a potential safety defect in counterbalance valves used in hydraulic cylinders on certain digger derrick models. The issue involves improperly seated retaining rings in the valve poppets that could dislodge, causing cylinder pressure loss and uncontrolled equipment movement. This poses significant safety risks to operators and nearby personnel, with potential for serious injury or death. No warning system alerts users to this condition when it occurs [1].
• September 2021: A recall was issued for D2000, D3000, and D4000 series Digger Derricks due to improperly seated retaining rings in the gearbox assembly. This issue could cause unintended boom movement, leading to potential safety hazards [2]. The NHTSA classified it as a safety defect due to the risk of uncontrolled movement.
• July 2021: The OSHRC reviewed a fatal incident involving a digger derrick where bolt (fastener) maintenance was at issue. The decision discusses Altec’s recall notice issued after a fatality, which stated that certain units had “rotation bearing fasteners that can break” and “possibly cause uncontrolled movement resulting in death or serious injury.” The recall was issued on October 26, 2018, about six months after the fatal incident, indicating Altec’s knowledge of the defect at least by that date [3].
• June 2020: Altec Industries, Inc. issued a recall for certain Digger Derricks due to potential failures of rotation bearing cap screws with the head marking “5185.” This defect could lead to uncontrolled movement, posing a serious risk of injury or death. The issue was classified as a safety defect by the NHTSA [4].

The economic impact of these equipment failures extends beyond lawsuit settlements, with industry analysts estimating over $150 million in productivity losses, medical costs, and equipment repairs related to defective units in the past five years.

NHTSA Reports and Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has documented several concerning statistics related to Altec Digger Derrick failures:

• The market for utility equipment like Digger Derricks represents a significant industry sector, with approximately 7,500 new units sold annually in North America alone.
• Altec is one of the largest manufacturers, commanding roughly 35% of market share.​

Altec Digger Derrick Injuries & Side Effects

Failures of Altec Digger Derricks have resulted in severe and sometimes fatal injuries to operators and nearby workers, particularly when components separate or controls malfunction during elevated operations.

• Traumatic Falls: Operators suffering catastrophic injuries from heights of 30-50 feet when buckets detach from booms or pedestals separate from turntables.
• Crushing Injuries: Workers being struck by falling components weighing hundreds or thousands of pounds, resulting in severe trauma to the head, spine, and internal organs.
• Fractures and Orthopedic Trauma: Complex fractures to legs, pelvis, spine, and skull from falls or equipment collapses, often requiring multiple surgeries and resulting in permanent disability.
• Electrocution: Control malfunctions leading to contact with power lines, causing severe burns, neurological damage, and cardiac arrest.
• Fatal Injuries: Multiple recorded deaths resulting from catastrophic equipment failures.

Do You Qualify for an Altec Digger Derrick Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an Altec Digger Derrick lawsuit if:

• You operated or worked with an Altec Digger Derrick model manufactured between 2016-2020, particularly models D2, D3, D4, DH-B, DH-E, D3000-E, or DH-H.
• You experienced injuries resulting from equipment failure, such as pedestal-turntable separation, bucket detachment, or control malfunction.
• The incident occurred during normal operation of the equipment.
• You required medical treatment for your injuries.
• You can provide documentation linking your injuries to the Altec Digger Derrick’s failure.
• The incident occurred within the statute of limitations for your state.

Evidence Required for an Altec Digger Derrick Lawsuit

To successfully pursue an Altec Digger Derrick claim, you will need to gather and present specific evidence including:

• Equipment identification and maintenance records showing the model, year of manufacture, and service history.
• Incident reports filed with employers, OSHA, or other regulatory agencies.
• Medical records documenting injuries sustained and treatments received.
• Witness statements from colleagues or bystanders who observed the incident.
• Photographs or video of the equipment failure if available.
• Documentation of any recall notices received for the equipment.
• Expert testimony regarding the equipment defect and how it contributed to your injuries.

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of Altec Digger Derrick failures may be eligible to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity due to temporary or permanent disability.
• Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional trauma.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement.
• Loss of quality of life.
• In fatal cases, wrongful death damages for surviving family members.
• Punitive damages in cases where Altec showed gross negligence or willful disregard for safety.

Altec Digger Derrick Recall Information

Altec has issued multiple recalls affecting their Digger Derrick product lines:

• March 2021 Recall: Affecting 2016-2020 Altec DH-B Series, DH-E Series, and D3000-E Digger Derricks equipped with radio remote upper controls due to missing combined use capacity charts.
• July 2020 Recall: Affecting 2018-2020 Altec D2, D3, D4, DH-B, and DH-H Digger Derricks, as well as AA55, AM50, and A77 Aerial Devices due to faulty bolts securing the pedestal to the turntable.
• Models Affected: Multiple models including D-Series and DH-Series Digger Derricks and several Aerial Device models.
• Defect Description: Bolts with head marking 5185 that secure the pedestal to the turntable may fail, causing separation and creating severe injury or death risks.
• Remedy: Altec dealers will provide replacement fasteners free of charge.

“These units only have the derrick use capacity chart and do not have the combined use capacity chart. The operator may not have access to the rated capacity information while they are operating the equipment in combined use, increasing the risk of an injury.”- U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Bunt v. Altec Industries Case Study

A significant precedent for Altec Digger Derrick lawsuits was established in the case of Bunt v. Altec Industries.

In July 1995, Bernard C. Bunt, Jr., a lineman for Otsego Electric Cooperative, Inc., was severely injured when the bucket of an Altec digger derrick malfunctioned while he was aloft.

The lawsuit maintained claims for negligence, breach of warranty, and strict product liability against Altec Industries.

This case highlights the severe risks associated with equipment failures and the legal recourse available to injured workers.

Statute of Limitations for Altec Digger Derrick Lawsuits

The time limits for filing an Altec Digger Derrick lawsuit vary by state and depend on whether the claim is for personal injury, product liability, or wrongful death:

• Personal Injury Claims: Generally range from 1-6 years depending on the state
• Product Liability Claims: Typically 2-4 years in most states
• Wrongful Death Claims: Usually 1-3 years from the date of death

Some states also have a “discovery rule” that may extend the deadline if the connection between the injury and the defective equipment wasn’t immediately apparent.

Additionally, if workers’ compensation was involved, this may affect the timing and nature of claims against the manufacturer.

Given these complexities, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after an incident to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadlines.

Related Articles:

• Altec Crane Lawsuit
• Altec Spray Trucks Lawsuit

FAQs

1. What specific defects are alleged in Altec Digger Derrick lawsuits?

The primary defects include faulty bolts (with head marking 5185) that secure the pedestal to the turntable which can fail, causing catastrophic separation, and missing combined use capacity charts on certain models that prevent operators from having critical safety information while operating the equipment.

2. How common are failures with Altec Digger Derricks?

NHTSA has documented approximately 25 confirmed incidents of pedestal-to-turntable separation since 2018, resulting in 5 fatalities and 32 serious injuries. Industry experts estimate that minor failures may be significantly underreported.

3. Can workers’ compensation affect my Altec Digger Derrick lawsuit?

Yes, if you received workers’ compensation, it may impact your lawsuit. However, you can still pursue additional claims for product liability against the manufacturer.

4. How do I know if my Altec Digger Derrick is part of a recall?

Check with consumer safety agencies or the manufacturer’s website for recall information. Document any recall notices and follow the provided instructions to ensure safety.

5. What should I do if I witness an accident involving an Altec Digger Derrick?

Ensure immediate medical attention for the injured, report the incident to your supervisor, and document the scene with photos and witness statements. Consult an attorney for legal advice.

6. What compensation might I expect from an Altec Digger Derrick lawsuit?

Compensation varies widely based on injury severity, long-term impacts, and jurisdiction. Recent settlements have ranged from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars for serious injury cases, with a notable $4.2 million settlement in a recent case involving catastrophic injuries.

7. How long do Altec Digger Derrick lawsuits typically take to resolve?

These complex product liability cases typically take 1-3 years to reach resolution, though simpler cases may settle faster. Factors affecting timeline include injury severity, evidence complexity, and whether the case goes to trial.

8. Can I file a lawsuit if my employer was negligent in maintaining the equipment?

Yes, while workers’ compensation may limit claims against your employer, you can still pursue product liability claims against the manufacturer. In some cases, third-party maintenance companies may also be liable.

9. What if my accident occurred before the recall was announced?

You may still have a strong case, particularly if you can demonstrate the manufacturer knew or should have known about the defect. Pre-recall accidents often form the basis for legal action that eventually leads to recalls.

10. Should I accept a settlement offer from Altec or their insurance?

Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney experienced in product liability cases. Initial offers often undervalue cases, especially those involving long-term disabilities or significant medical expenses.

See all related personal injury and accident lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get a Free Altec Digger Derrick Lawsuit

If you or a loved one has been injured by an Altec Digger Derrick, time is limited to pursue legal action. Most states impose strict deadlines of just 1-3 years for filing product liability and personal injury claims, and waiting too long may permanently bar your right to compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

• Free, confidential case evaluations to determine your eligibility
• No upfront costs or attorney fees – we only get paid if you recover compensation
• Nationwide representation by experienced product liability attorneys
• Comprehensive support throughout the entire legal process

Our experienced team understands the devastating impact that industrial equipment failures can have on workers and their families.

We’re committed to holding manufacturers accountable and helping you secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

References

1. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V251-5344.PDF
2. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2021/RCONL-21V512-4352.pdf
3. https://www.oshrc.gov/wp-content/uploads/Henkels__McCoy%5E18-1864%5E_Commmission_Decision%5E072022%5EFINAL_publish.html
4. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2020/RCONL-20V282-9384.pdf