According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), each year, there are over 800 deaths and nearly 20,000 injuries that are related to the use of heavy machinery in the workplace. There are inherent risks involved in working with heavy machinery. Machinery can be dangerous, and misusing it can lead to serious workplace injuries.

Employers must train their workers to make them aware of the dangers of heavy machinery. If workers are injured on the job, they may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim or a possible third-party lawsuit if the injury was from defective equipment.

Caught-In/Between Accidents

Caught-in/between accidents are common causes of fatal injuries in the workplace. Workers may be pinned between heavy machinery and another hard surface, such as a wall. In the process, the worker may suffer a crush injury. This accident often happens because of operator errors or improper control of the machinery.

Being Run Over by Heavy Machinery

The machinery operator may not be able to see in their blind spots, and they may not see others standing in their path. The heavy machinery may run over nearby workers, leading to severe injuries.

Tipping Over Accidents

Tipping over is a danger when working with heavy machinery. Either driver error or a defective machine can cause the center of gravity to shift. Alternatively, the machinery’s load may not be properly centered. The operator or those near the heavy machinery can be injured. Workers can get run over or crushed by the machinery.

Transportation Accidents

Heavy machinery must also be transported between locations. The machinery must be properly secured. The driver of a vehicle moving heavy machinery can be injured in an accident. Moving a large piece of cargo is extremely challenging. The driver may lose control of the vehicle when the machinery is improperly secured.

Workers Need Training for Using Heavy Machinery

Workers must be properly and thoroughly trained before they can operate heavy machinery. That obligation falls on the employer, who must ensure that only skilled and trained workers operate heavy machinery. The workers must be aware of the risks before using heavy machinery. Employers must follow extensive OSHA rules and regulations, although some employers do not always comply.

Filing Workers’ Compensation Claims for Heavy Machinery Injuries

In most cases, you can file a workers’ compensation claim after you have suffered an injury from heavy equipment in the workplace. However, your lawyer will review your case and investigate whether the machinery was to blame for the accident. You can file a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer or seller if the machinery is defective.

Contact a Monmouth County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams After a Heavy Machinery Accident

If you have been injured by heavy machinery at work, contact a Monmouth County workers’ compensation lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams. Call 732-351-2800 or complete our online form to schedule a free initial consultation. Tinton Falls and New Brunswick, New Jersey and we serve not only clients in Monmouth and Middlesex County, but throughout the state.