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.
The safety of agriculture workers is more critical now than ever before, as recent statistics from Reuters and the Wall Street Journal show. In 2021, there were 574 fatalities in the agriculture industry, representing a 6% increase from the previous year, according to Reuters. The Wall Street Journal also reported that agriculture workers had the highest rate of serious injuries, with 6.9 injuries per 100 workers. These alarming statistics underscore the importance of implementing better safety measures and raising awareness about the risks associated with agricultural work.
Compensation for Farm Accident Injuries
Many farm accidents can be attributed to defective equipment and machinery, which may lack proper safety guards or suddenly malfunction. Others occur due to reckless or negligent behavior by coworkers or contract laborers. Accidents can occur due to various reasons. These include falling objects, tractors or vehicle rollovers, electrocution, toxic chemical accidents, workers trapped in confined spaces, and stampeding livestock.
Depending on the circumstances, Many individuals can claim benefits through workers’ compensation. 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 often limited to workers’ compensation. However, in some cases, workplace accidents involve third parties not subject to these limitations. For instance, if a truck driver employed by a distribution company injures a farm worker, both the driver and their employer can be held liable under the legal concept of “respondent superior.” This principle holds employers responsible for their employees’ actions while on the job.
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 pay for an injured worker’s lost wages and other damages not covered in workers’ comp claims.
When farming accidents happen, the consequences can be tragic. If you or a family member has suffered a farm injury on either an individual family-owned or large agribusiness-owned farm, the Ohio and Michigan personal injury lawyers at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault can assist you. Our experienced farm accident lawyers in Toledo can handle a variety of farm injury cases successfully, ensuring you receive the compensation and resources you need.
Farmers and farm workers are exposed to various types of hazards that
can lead 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
At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we provide comprehensive assistance throughout the entire workers’ compensation claim process. Whether you’re facing a rejection from the BWC or a dispute from your employer, we are here to help. Our services include filing the initial application, handling subsequent compensation or treatment requests, representing you at hearings, and even in court if needed.
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.
