A Colorado construction worker was involved in an on-the-job and eventually died as a result of the injuries suffered when he was pinned beneath a fallen beam on Tuesday, May 8. According to witnesses, the construction accident occurred when the man was standing on the steel beam. It began shifting. The witnesses then watched him fall to the ground below. The beam then followed, pinning him to the ground. Construction workers were able to use a crane to remove the beam from the pinned man, but the damage had already been done. Doctors pronounced the man dead at the hospital later that day.
Two other workers were injured in the accident, though no additional details have been provided about their injuries or medical condition. One complained of pain but was conscious, and the other complained of a hand injury. The name of the individual who died, as well as those injured were not released immediately. The accident is under investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It has not been stated whether any charges have or will be filed in this case.
Colorado residents and workers are likely aware of the dangers associated with construction sites. The heavy equipment and materials used can be dangerous if not operated or secured properly and sometimes mismanagement of them can result in a construction accident. The injured individuals may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim to help cover medical costs and lost wages due to the incident.
For the family of the deceased victim, they could be entitled to workers’ compensation death benefits as a result of the fatal accident. Though these benefits can hardly take the place of the fallen worker, they can offer important assistance at a time when the family is reeling from the sudden and seemingly senseless loss of their loved one.
Source: Claims Journal, “Accident Kills Colorado Construction Worker,” May 10, 2012