Those who work with heavy equipment likely know of the risks of their jobs. While most take measures to ensure they are safe in their work environment, accidents resulting in workplace injuries can unexpectedly occur, leaving the worker, his loved ones or both wondering how to cope with the financial ramifications of such injuries. One family in California is likely still coming to terms with the news that their loved one recently lost his life in a workplace accident.
According to reports, the incident occurred one afternoon on a day in November at Good View Lumber. The 58-year-old victim was reportedly operating a forklift on a ramp. Unfortunately, the forklift reportedly overturned, trapping the man underneath.
He died at the scene. The incident remains under investigation both by local police and the California division of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. A representative for Good View declined to comment on the incident when contacted by phone.
Because of the potential financial ramifications of workplace injuries in California, employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for their employees. These benefits can provide for medical expenses, lost wages and retraining as well as funeral costs in the event of a fatality. While financial compensation will likely do little to reduce the emotional costs the man’s family is experiencing due to his unexpected death, they could protect them financially as they struggle to come to terms with the tragedy. An attorney with experience with negotiating with insurance companies can help those in a similar situations pursue fair compensation.
Source: South San Francisco, Ca. Patch, “South San Francisco Man Killed in Lumber Yard Accident“, Nov. 23, 2016
