Construction site accident in nearby San Leandro

Workers in certain occupations are at a greater risk of getting injured on the job, but they accept the risk and go to work anyways. Construction accidents, in particular, are all too common in America, despite all of the efforts undertaken to make worksites safe for workers. An unfortunate example of the risky nature of construction worksites popped up in the news recently from an incident in nearby San Leandro.

According to the reports, a 48-year-old man was killed on February 13 when a piece of heavy equipment that he was repairing fell on him and crushed him. The equipment was reported to be what is known as a "front-end wheel loader," which is used to move heavy objects. Initial details of what caused this construction site accident were scarce, but there will be an OSHA investigation. Hopefully the investigation will reveal more information as to how this unfortunate accident claimed the life of the mechanic.

Any work accident victim can probably expect to deal with some major setbacks. First, if the injured worker survives the accident, they will need to focus on their medical treatment and rehabilitation. Second, and just as important, is figuring out a way to deal with all of the unexpected medical expenses. In the long run this second issue can actually become the most troubling result of a workplace accident, especially if the worker is fortunate enough to make a full recovery from physical injuries.

Fortunately, when a worker is injured due to unsafe working conditions, they likely will not have much of a problem securing workers' compensation benefits. And, of particular importance in this recent case, if the worker dies due to the accident their family members may be able to secure those benefits instead.

Source: San Jose Mercury News, "San Leandro: Construction equipment company worker killed in industrial accident," Natalie Neysa Alund, Feb. 14, 2014