The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health recently launched an investigation into a fatal workplace accident that claimed the life of a construction worker. This was one of the many fatalities that often lead to workers’ compensation survivor’s benefits claims that follow forklift accidents. The dangers posed by lift trucks do not always receive the necessary attention during safety training.
According to an incident report, emergency services were called to a construction site shortly before 10 a.m. on a recent Wednesday. When first responders arrived at the construction site of a planned apartment building, they found a 19-year-old man unresponsive on the ground. They learned that a forklift had backed over the victim.
Officials reported that the young worker was behind the lift truck, directing the operator of the vehicle that was loaded with roof trusses. They say the operator lost sight of the young worker as he backed up and only realized what happened when he had already traveled over his co-worker. Paramedics rushed him to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Losing a loved one in a workplace accident at such a young age is unimaginable. The surviving family members might find some comfort in knowing that they could be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. A California attorney who has experience in dealing with the state-regulated insurance program can assist with the benefits claims process. The family would likely receive compensation to cover end-of-life expenses and a financial package to make up for the unanticipated loss of income.