Workplace accidents are common in all industries. However, they tend to occur most frequently in the agricultural industry, with some of the highest workforce injury rates in the country. A farm accident can be devastating and lead to serious consequences.
If you’ve been in an accident like this, you may wonder if you can file a claim or if you should take any other actions. Below, we shared the steps to ensure that your case is handled properly and your rights are protected.
Common Causes of Farm Accidents
Farmers are at risk for injuries and fatal accidents due to their work in the field. These accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:
- Defective equipment or machinery
- Hazardous chemical spills
- Tractor rollovers
- Slips and falls
- Vehicle accidents
- Struck by falling objects
- Accidental electrocution
- Injuries caused by animals
- Entrapment in grain silos
- And more
What Are Your Rights?
If you’ve been injured while working and are entitled to claim worker’s compensation, then you may be eligible to receive the following:
- Medical bills
- A portion of lost wages
- Disability benefits (if you’re unable to work)
Whenever an injury occurs on a farm — regardless of the cause — you should immediately report it to a supervisor or employer. This allows you to pursue full worker’s compensation payment as quickly as possible while also preserving your right to recovery.
Meanwhile, if the farm has no workers’ compensation policy, you may be able to sue the owner for damages. Another angle to look at is the possibility of a third-party lawsuit. If the case is handled properly, and you win, you can recover full lost wages and other damages not covered by the worker’s compensation.
Steps To Take After a Farm Accident
Here are the necessary steps you need to do after a farm injury:
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Farming injuries like cuts, burns, scrapes, or broken bones can be serious. Even if your injuries don’t appear serious, seeking medical care and avoiding complications later is significant. Visit the doctor as soon as possible and follow the treatment advice they give you.
Gather Enough Evidence
Legal evidence is the building block of a solid case. Make sure that your claims are backed up with strong evidence. To gather the best evidence, you can contact a farm accident lawyer like Gallon, Takacs, & Boissoneault to help you. However, if an attorney isn’t around, you can:
- Take images of your injuries and the accident scene
- Collect names and phone numbers of witnesses and bystanders
- Preserve the equipment that caused the accident
Contact an Experienced Farm Accident Attorney
The best way to guarantee that your case is handled fairly and competently is to hire an experienced attorney specializing in farm accidents. They can help preserve crucial evidence and represent you at all stages of your accident claim.
Talk to a Farm Accident Attorney Today
If you or your loved one has been injured on any farm in Ohio or Michigan, you can always contact the farm accident experts at Gallon, Takacs, & Boissoneault. We can thoroughly investigate your case and work hard to fight for your rights — because you deserve compensation.
Kevin Boissoneault, is the President and Managing Partner of GT&B. He began his career at GT&B in 1992 and has built the Personal Injury section into one of the strongest and most successful firms in the region. His hard work and dedication as a compelling trial attorney and litigator has won many verdicts and settlements for his clients and their families. Kevin’s commitment to protecting those who have been injured through accident or negligence has brought justice for thousands of clients.
