Two Workers Crushed by a Semi-Truck Trailer
Two workers in Chesterfield Township, Michigan, were seriously injured recently in the Kroger Distribution Center parking lot on 23 Mile Road when a semi-truck box trailer crashed down on top of them.
According to authorities, the two workers were working under the box trailer when the supports gave way and caused it to crash down on them. The Davison, Michigan resident sustained severe chest injuries, and the Clay Township resident suffered a serious leg injury. A 42-year-old Lapeer, Michigan worker was not injured and moved the others to safety. The injured workers were taken to a nearby hospital and were listed as stable. Chesterfield Township police investigated the incident, but no criminal activity is suspected.
Workplace Injuries
Workplace fatalities can occur in many professions, with OSHA reporting that 164 Michigan workers were fatally injured in 2019 and 5,333 fatally injured nationwide. The most common cause of fatal workplace injuries is motor vehicle collisions, which account for nearly 40%.
These injuries or illnesses can range from minor cuts and bruises to paralysis and lifelong injuries. When an employee is injured from a work-related incident, the missed work results in lost income and possible medical costs that can add a financial burden that an injured worker does not need.
Common Workplace Accidents
Workplace injuries often occur in the construction and manufacturing industries. Injuries can include:
- Vehicle collisions: Workers in transportation, such as truck driving, may be involved in a crash or struck by another vehicle while pulled off to the roadside. Warehouse and construction workers are also at risk of being run over by trucks backing up or crushed between vehicles and other objects;
- Equipment-related injuries: Heavy machinery can become dangerous if it is not maintained correctly, or it may fail due to manufacturer or design flaws. Forklifts or dumpsters can overturn, and power tools can misfire. These incidents may also call for a product liability lawsuit;
- Falls: Workers at construction sites, who are on rooftops, scaffolding, or tall equipment, are at risk for falls from scaffolding, cranes, roofs, ladders, and other heights;
- Building or trench collapses: When buildings are undergoing demolition or construction, they may be unstable, which can lead to collapse, seriously injuring or even killing those inside;
- High lead levels and respiratory disease: This includes asbestos and silicosis.
- Falling objects: Construction and warehouse workers risk falling objects striking them. This can include unsecured objects or products at higher levels, such as tools used by other workers and construction materials that are not adequately secured. These incidents can lead to serious brain and spinal injuries;
- Fire and explosions: Hazardous materials and chemicals can cause injury at job sites when these materials are flammable and cause explosions.
In cases where the injuries were not fatal and workers’ compensation settlements are reached, the victim and their family are provided compensation for lost wages allowing them to focus on recovering.
Call Our Attorneys if You Were Injured in a Workplace Accident
Our experienced workplace injury lawyers can assess your case and fight to secure maximum compensation if you were injured in a work-related accident. The attorneys at Charles Boyk Law Offices have the experience to help you get the settlement you deserve. We have successfully represented Michigan and Ohio residents for decades. If you or a loved one are injured in the workplace, contact us today.
