Construction workers often put themselves in harm’s way for the improvement of society as a whole. These brave men and women work at excess heights, near hazardous traffic and in close proximity to dangerous machines in order to build roads, bridges and buildings. Even when these workers are provided with the best safety equipment and training to perform their job duties, workplace accidents can occur that leave them seriously injured or killed.
Sadly, one of these incidences occurred recently in New York. The 44-year-old construction worker was killed at a Brooklyn construction site when a wall panel being carried by a forklift tipped forward and landed on him. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation, but there are concerns about high winds on the day of the incident and whether work should have been halted. Regardless, the damage has already been done. This man’s family will now have to cope with the tragic emotional and financial realities that have befallen them.
Individuals who have been injured in a workplace accident, as well as those who have lost a loved one in one of these incidents, can face enormous losses. Those who are fortunate enough to survive such an accident can face severe physical pain and limitations, as well as financial losses in the form of medical expenses, rehabilitation cost and lost wages. Surviving family members can face similar damages. Taken together, these losses can be overwhelming and leave workplace accident victims and their families struggling to find a way forward.
Fortunately, worker’s compensation benefits may be available to both injured workers and surviving family members. These benefits, if successfully obtained, can provide significant financial relief. They can help offset medical expenses and lost wages, and they may even help cover funeral expenses. The process of recovering these benefits is not always easy though, which is why it is often best for those affected by a workplace injury or death to work closely with a qualified legal professional when pursuing these benefits.