Construction Site Heavy Machinery Accidents

Accidents involving heavy machinery and equipment are common on construction sites. They can lead to serious, life changing injuries or even death. These accidents involve a variety of heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, forklifts, tractors, and power tools.

Employer’s Responsibilities in Operating Heavy Machinery and Equipment

An employer must ensure that safety protocols are followed while operating heavy machinery and equipment. This includes:

·         Training workers to operate the heavy machinery or work equipment.

·         Regular maintenance of all machinery and work equipment.

·         Performing necessary repairs.

·         Providing the employees with relevant protective gear.

·         Ensuring that full protective gear is always worn when operating heavy machinery or work equipment.

Pursuing Compensation for Heavy Machinery and Equipment Accidents

Employees injured in heavy machinery and work equipment accidents can file a claim in order to obtain compensation for injuries and any financial losses that incurred as a result of the accident. Injured employees can file a claim for compensation through the following sources:

Workers’ compensation benefits

Employees injured on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits through the employer’s insurance, regardless of fault. Workers’ compensation insurance covers medical treatment, lost income, retraining cost, rehabilitation cost, and benefits to the families of employees who are killed on the job. Employees who receive workers’ compensation benefits cannot sue their employer.

Personal Injury Lawsuit

If an employee is injured because of the employer's carelessness or intentional act, he/she can bypass the workers' compensation system and sue their employer for the damages. Additionally, if someone other than the employer causes the injury or shares responsibility for the injury, an employee may file a claim against the party. By filing third party claims, employees can receive additional compensation for pain and suffering and other non-economic damages.