In many workplaces in California and across the country, there are several known health and safety hazards. As a result, workers take precautions to ensure their safety. Unfortunately, some workplace injuries result from unexpected accidents due to unforeseen hazards. Such appears to be the case at an out-of-state workplace; a worker passed away as a result of injuries suffered in a workplace accident.
The accident happened after midnight at a distribution center called Stop & Shop. According to reports, a 51-year-old victim was on a loading dock when a tractor-trailer pulled away. Unfortunately, the man reportedly fell between the dock and the truck.
After he fell, a forklift is said to have fallen, crushing the worker. Emergency personnel provided first aid, and he was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Unfortunately, his injuries proved fatal. While foul play is not suspected, the accident remains under investigation.
Workplace injuries can occur in even the safest environments, when all safety recommendations are followed. As a result, California requires employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage to help injured workers with the financial ramifications of a workplace accident. In the case of a fatality, these benefits typically extend to certain family members. While compensation may do little to reduce their grief, it can help families ensure they are able to meet their needs and cope with funeral expenses. Because most families in mourning are not prepared to negotiate with insurance companies, there are attorneys with experience with the compensation process who are willing to help them seek an appropriate settlement.
Source: wpri.com, “Man dies in Freetown industrial accident“, Shaun Towne, Jan. 24, 2017