Each occupation has a unique set of hazards, along with the precautions that are necessary to mitigate them. However, sometimes, workplace accidents happen that are inexplicable, and those may need thorough investigation before their causes become clear. Fortunately, the California workers’ compensation insurance system is a no-fault program, and benefits claims do not have to wait for the results of an investigation.
A garbage truck driver lost his life in such an accident on a recent Wednesday. A police report indicates that someone who heard the crash, but didn’t see it, made an emergency call to 911 at approximately 6:15 a.m. Officers who responded arrived to find that a garbage truck had struck several cars.
The report further indicates that the operator of the truck appeared to have been struck by his own vehicle. The trucker did not survive the impact. Traffic investigators and detectives arrived at the scene to attempt to unravel the circumstances that led to this fatal workplace accident.
Seeing a loved one leave for work never to return is understandably traumatic, and the unanticipated financial burden only serves to exacerbate the trauma. Fortunately, surviving family members of victims of fatal work-related accidents can file survivors’ benefits claims with the California workers’ compensation insurance system. An attorney with experience in this field can assist with the navigation of the claims for benefits. Along with compensation to cover the high costs of end-of-life arrangements, the benefits typically include a financial package to make up for a percentage of lost wages.