The ability to work and provide for oneself is something many of us never stop to think about. If a person suffers a loss of expected income for any reason, it can be devastating, especially if a workplace accident is the reason. A recent out-of-state construction fatality makes this fact all too clear. Kentucky families can heed this as an example of how workers’ compensation could help them, should they find themselves in a similar situation.
A man in another state recently lost his life while working on a construction site. The company he worked for was founded over 30 years ago and handles utility installations. The man was crouched down, and a bulldozer operator, who worked for the same company, didn’t see him and backed over him. The man was pronounced dead on the scene and investigators say that all the employees on-site were distraught over the accident.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently investigating the incident. The company has had a few previous violations, one of which occurred just two years ago. It had to pay over $15,000 in fines due to these violations. Though the exact nature of some of the violations are unknown, they have been categorized as “serious,” and records show that the same violations have occurred more than once. OSHA has at least six months to finish its investigation.
Since this man’s death happened while he was at work, his surviving family members may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation death benefits. This could ease any financial burden they may be experiencing due to the loss of the man’s income. The benefits could help them cover funeral costs and typically include a lost income package for a stipulated period of time. An experienced attorney may be able to assist a family in this situation and advise them on how best to proceed. Though the accident happened out of state, Kentucky residents can rest assured that their workers’ compensation benefits would help care for their families, should they be needed.