In Pennsylvania and throughout the country, erosion companies work to minimize soil and weather damage along highways, coastal areas or other residential and commercial properties. Like most construction industry work, this type of job carries a high risk for personal injury. A recent workplace accident has sent a ripple of grief throughout an entire company and community.
It was approximately 10:30 a.m. when the tragedy occurred. A 50-year-old man was working on an erosion project, but little did he know, it would be the last assignment of his life. At some point, while he was carrying out his workplace duties, a heavy bale of hay fell on top of the man.
Company officials later reported that the hay bale weighed approximately 700 pounds. Investigators are still working on the case to determine exactly what or who may have caused the accident. Sadly, the worker did not survive his injuries. His employers released a statement, expressing their great sorrow and praising the fallen worker as someone who had a significant positive impact on the company and community beyond.
Being struck by or trapped under heavy equipment is a frequent type of workplace accident in Pennsylvania, especially in construction and agricultural industries. If a worker survives his or her injuries, he or she can file a workers’ compensation claim to collect benefits during recovery to help pay medical bills or replace lost wages. In cases of fatality, the spouse or other immediate family member of a deceased worker may wish to seek legal support to help him or her navigate the system.
