Electricity poses deadly hazards to workers across California, and the flowers and candles that were placed in Modesto recently are grim reminders of just how dangerous it is. The surviving family members of the worker who recently lost his life while working on a street light are likely eligible to seek financial assistance through the state-regulated workers’ compensation system. In the meantime, the circumstances that led to this tragedy will be investigated by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health.
Reportedly the man had been working for the city for six years. He was an electrician assistant who was installing a street light on a recent Monday. Very few details were made public, and it is not clear whether he was alone or in the company of a qualified electrician when he received the electric shock that caused his death.
Sometimes, workers who face the same hazards for years without suffering injuries become complacent. This might lead them to take shortcuts, which could have devastating consequences. Although it is unclear exactly what led to this man’s death, the city will likely revise its safety protocols in an effort to prevent a similar incident that could claim another life.
Losing a loved one in a workplace accident is devastating, and the surviving family members typically have to deal with the financial consequences during a time of heartache and grief. They must cope with the high costs related to end-of-life arrangements along with the sudden loss of income. The California workers’ compensation program allows such families to file death benefits claims to cover those losses and ease the unanticipated financial burden.
Source: fox40.com, “Modesto City Worker Dies of Electrocution While on the Job“, Kay Recede, April 10, 2018