Many job-related tasks are relatively safe. However, regardless of the perceived lack of risk associated with a task, unexpected events can cause workplace injuries. Two brothers working in a California field were performing a task likely considered relatively safe when one of them suffered fatal injuries.
The California Highway Patrol says the incident happened one afternoon on a day in October. According to reports, a 35-year-old man was driving a tractor toward the rear of a harvester. The man’s 37-year-old brother was standing at the rear of the harvester.
For reasons that are not clear, the tractor reportedly did not come to a complete stop, pinning the older man between the two pieces of equipment. He was transported to the hospital, but later passed away as a result of injuries suffered in the accident. The incident remains under investigation by both the CHP and the California Division of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. If OSHA discovers that safety and health standards were violated leading up to the accident, the men’s employer could face a citation as well as a fine.
Because even tasks that appear to be relatively mundane can cause workplace injuries, employers in California are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage. These benefits help workers cope with medical expenses and loss of wages if they are injured in an accident. In a case of a fatality such as this, the benefits also cover funeral expenses. Because most people have no experience with the claims process, they often seek the guidance of a professional who does to help ensure fair treatment.
Source: thecalifornian.com, “Field worker killed in Tuesday incident ID’d“, Chelcey Adami, Oct. 20, 2016
