Those who work in the outdoors in California must often juggle deadline expectations with poor weather conditions. As such, some people must perform tasks in less than ideal weather. Unfortunately, officials believe that wet roads may have contributed to a recent accident that resulted in fatal workplace injuries.
The incident happened one evening on a day in early October. According to reports, a 27-year-old vineyard employee was working to harvest grapes. As part of this task, he needed to drive a forklift down a road that reports describe as wet and steep. Unfortunately, the forklift is believed to have overturned, killing the man.
Another man was waiting for the victim at the bottom of the hill. When he went to look for the forklift driver, he discovered the accident. The incident is under investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which is typical following a fatal workplace accident.
Investigations following accidents that result in workplace injuries are important in California as they can potentially prevent similar incidents in the future. Unfortunately, an investigation will do little to help the man’s grieving family as they cope with the emotional and financial implications of their loss. Fortunately, there are options that could help with their struggles related to funeral expenses and loss of wages, including workers’ compensation insurance benefits. While employers are required to provide coverage for such benefits to help protect workers and their families in the event of such an accident, many people find the compensation process complicated, especially in a time of grief. However, there are professionals with experience with the process who can fight for these victims and their families.
Source: Napa Valley, Ca. Patch, “Vineyard Worker Killed in Forklift Accident“, Oct. 5, 2016
