Most people in California are aware of the many risks that they face in the workplace. However, the benefits of making a paycheck and having insurance coverage, in some cases, often outweigh those potential risks. Although many workplace accidents can be avoided by taking proper safety precautions, even the safest of workers can suffer workplace injuries through no fault of his or her own. For example, one man passed away recently after he was injured at work.
According to reports, the man was an employee of a lumber service. While many of the details of the accident are unclear, the 38-year-old man was struck in the head. He was transported to the emergency room, where he was ultimately pronounced dead as a result of the injuries he suffered.
A representative from the police claims that it is unclear if the accident was caused by a human error or mechanical failure. The case has been turned over to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration which typically has up to six months to investigate the incident and issue a report. If the organization finds that safety and health standards were violated leading up to the accident, the man’s employer could be cited and fined.
Unfortunately, workplace injuries can place an unexpected financial strain on a family while they are already coping with an emotional loss. This is one reason why California requires that employers provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for the benefit of their employees. These benefits, which can cover medical bills and lost wages, often extend to dependent family members in the event of a fatality. Many families require help seeking the compensation they deserve and choose to turn to an experienced professional for assistance.
Source: Chicago Tribune, “Genoa man dies after being struck by log“, Susan DeMar Lafferty, Jan. 5, 2016