Farm Accident Work Injuries
The farming and agricultural industries can be dangerous occupations. Our farm accident lawyers know that agricultural workers face significant workplace hazards that account for many injuries each year.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recently revealed alarming figures where the agricultural industry has one of the country’s highest rates of fatal workplace accidents. According to the report, in 2020, there were 123 fatal accidents among agricultural workers, and more than 15,560 non-fatal injury accidents occurred on America’s farms – an average of almost 43 accidents daily.
Ensuring the safety of agriculture workers is of utmost importance, particularly considering recent statistics. According to Reuters, there was a 6% increase in industry fatalities in 2021, with 574 reported cases. The Wall Street Journal further reported that agriculture workers have the highest rate of serious injuries, with 6.9 injuries per 100 workers. These alarming statistics underscore the urgency to enhance safety measures and raise awareness regarding the risks associated with agricultural work.
Compensation for Farm Accident Injuries
Numerous farm accidents stem from faulty equipment, machinery lacking safety guards, or sudden malfunctions. Others occur due to reckless or negligent behavior by coworkers or contract laborers. Accidents can be caused by falling objects, tractor or vehicle rollovers, electrocution, toxic chemical mishaps, workers trapped in confined spaces, or stampeding livestock.
Individuals may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits depending on the circumstances. However, it is important to note that workers’ compensation rarely provides full monetary value for injuries. Instead, it covers medical bills, a portion of lost wages, and disability.
Compensation for agricultural accidents is usually limited to workers’ compensation. However, workplace accidents may involve third parties not bound by these restrictions. For instance, if a distribution company’s truck driver injures a farm worker, the driver and the employer can be held liable under “respondent superior.” This principle holds employers accountable for their employees’ on-the-job actions.
If defective or improperly serviced machinery injures a farm worker, the manufacturer or service company responsible for the defective equipment can be forced to pay civil damages. Both of the above are examples of third-party lawsuits, which can provide compensation for an injured worker’s lost wages and other damages not covered in workers’ comp claims.
Farming accidents can have tragic consequences. If you or a family member has suffered a farm injury on either a family-owned or agribusiness-owned farm, the experienced farm accident lawyers at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault in Toledo can assist you. Our lawyers can handle various successful farm injury cases, ensuring you receive the necessary compensation and resources.
Farmers and farm workers face various hazards leading to accidents and injuries, including:
– A man suffered electrical burns when a grain auger contacted an improperly installed overhead power line.
– A young father and husband endured an amputated arm and crush injuries due to a defective corn picker.
– A worker was struck and killed when a bolt broke on a grain auger.
– A worker suffered a severe crush injury to his dominant arm caused by an inadequately guarded tomato harvester.
The Farm Accident Lawyers: Your Advocates in the Fields
Working on a farm is more than just a job; it’s a way of life. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous jobs in America. Every year, thousands of farmers and farmworkers are injured or killed on the job. If you or someone you love has been involved in a farm accident, you need a lawyer who understands the law and the agricultural industry. The Farm Accident Lawyers at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault are here to help. With years of experience representing clients in Northwest Ohio, our attorneys have the knowledge and experience needed to handle even the most complex farm accident cases. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us be your advocates in the fields.
Protect yourself and your family by scheduling a free consultation at one of our convenient office locations. Call 800-352-1976 or contact us online.