Many people in California are unaware of the many risks that construction workers face as they complete their job-related tasks. Because of the size of the equipment and the potential for falls, construction accidents often leave family members coping with the unexpected loss of a loved one. One out-of-state family is likely coming to terms with such a situation after a crane overturned at a construction site, killing one worker.
A representative for the fire department says that the accident happened one morning on a day in late January. Workers were reportedly working to set cement walls. Unfortunately, a crane apparently fell over into one of the walls, knocking it over. A worker, who is described as being in his twenties, died in the accident.
Crews worked for hours to recover the body. An additional crane was needed in order to move the fallen wall. Representatives from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have launched an investigation into the incident.
When construction accidents like this happen, it is important to understand the cause in order to prevent future accidents. Unfortunately, this knowledge likely does little to assuage the grief that family members experience as a result of the loss of their loved one. In additional to their emotional turmoil, many families also experience financial difficulties as a result of funeral expenses and lost wages. While they may qualify for workers’ compensation insurance benefits, many in California have found that negotiating fair compensation is an added burden in a time already filled with stress. However, there are experienced professionals who are willing to negotiate on behalf of such families.
Source: heraldextra.com, “Construction worker killed in crane accident in American Fork“, Cathy Allred and Spenser Heaps, Jan. 26, 2016
