Many people know that they can file a workers’ compensation claim if they are injured while on the job. What some people don’t realize is that if a loved one is killed in a workplace accident, the family may be able to collect workers’ compensation. Doing so may help the family cover outstanding expenses that can often result from these kinds of tragedies. One California family may be facing this exact situation after a man died in a recent accident while on the job.
Officials report that the accident happened on a recent early afternoon when an employee became trapped under a conveyor system on top of an old, unused silo. Apparently, the worker used a cutting torch to take apart a portion of the conveyor motor when the structure fell on him. He and an employee trying to free him were dozens of feet off the ground at the top of the silo. First responders freed the worker and brought him down from the silo and then airlifted him to a nearby hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, the man did not survive.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the incident to determine if any safety violations contributed to the accident. The man’s co-workers have expressed grief at the loss, saying how much they liked and respected him. The man’s company has stated that they fully intend to cooperate with OSHA’s investigation and that its focus is on the employee’s family.
Whatever OSHA’s investigation reveals, the family of the employee has legal rights they may not know about. Those here in California who have questions about how to file for workers’ compensation benefits may want to consult an attorney with extensive knowledge of this area of the law. A situation like this one can be stressful and upsetting for a family and they may need an advocate who can keep their best interests in mind.