At this time of year, people across the country are busily trying to complete their holiday shopping. For many, this means ordering items that will then be shipped. While the prospect of deals and free shipping is appealing to consumers, workers are then left to ship the items. Unfortunately, reports indicate that two UPS workers were recently killed in a workplace accident at an airport in California.
Many of the details of the accident are unclear. However, reports indicate that the local fire department contacted the California Division of Occupational and Safety and Health around 7:20 a.m. on a day in late November and notified the organization that a fatal accident had occurred. The incident is said to have involved a tug, a piece of equipment similar to a tractor that is used to move heavy loads.
Unfortunately, a source with Cal/OSHA indicates that the tug tipped over. As a result, two employees died as a result of crush injuries. The incident is currently under investigation.
When most people report to work, they do so with the expectation that they will return to their homes and families in the same condition in which they left. Unfortunately, all workers — even those who are dedicated to safety — face the risk of becoming victims of a workplace accident. Because injuries suffered in a work-related accident can have serious physical and financial consequences, employers in California are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage. In the case of a fatality, these benefits often extend to certain family members to help them cope with funeral costs and the consequences of lost wages. An attorney with experience with this process can help victims — including surviving family members — seek the compensation they deserve.