Most people in California are aware that all occupations contain some degree of risk. While the risk for an employee of Goodwill, for example, likely seems relatively low, any occupation that requires a worker to operate heavy machinery could lead to workplace injuries. Unfortunately, reports indicate that a worker at Goodwill recently lost his life.
Emergency responders received a call about an accident one afternoon on a day in late September. According to reports, the victim suffered severe head injuries. He was rushed to the hospital but ultimately passed away as a result of his injuries.
Co-workers say the victim was 24 years old and had only worked at the store for a few weeks. The Regional Vice President of Operations confirms the fatality. A representative for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration claims that the man died as a result of injuries suffered when he attempted to adjust a bin in a compactor. Other employees report that they are frequently expected to work the compactor as part of their job responsibilities.
Families in California who experience an unexpected loss such as this often struggle to meet their financial obligations following a loss. Funeral expenses and loss of wages can take a great toll on a family who loses a loved one due to workplace injuries. However, employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance benefits to help protect victims — including family members in the event of a fatality — from the financial fallout associated with an accident. Because the process can be complicated, many who deserve such benefits seek help from a professional who has experience.
Source: fox40.com, “South Sacramento Goodwill Employee Killed in Work Accident“, Doug Johnson, Sept. 30, 2016