Workers involved in activities at landfill sites in Colorado and other states where many dump trucks move about have to face safety hazards daily. Authorities in a neighboring state reported a tragic incident in which a dump truck driver suffered fatal occupational injuries. Reportedly, the worker suffered the injuries in a freak accident at a landfill.
Preliminary reports indicate that two dump truck drivers were both in the process of dumping the contents of their trucks, when, for reasons yet to be determined, the one truck rolled over and landed on the cab of the other truck. The cab was crushed, and the driver was trapped. Reportedly, 22 firefighters worked for almost three hours to extricate the injured victim.
Authorities said medics, doctors and nurses continued to give him blood and medication during the rescue process. Once they removed him from the cab, he was rushed to a rescue helicopter that was standing ready nearby. During the flight to the hospital, CPR was performed. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries later that night.
Knowing that a loved one suffered severe pain and trauma from occupational injuries before his ultimate death is naturally traumatic for any family. Families faced with such trauma in Colorado are entitled to pursue relief for unanticipated financial burdens after loved ones’ deaths at their workplaces. Death benefits may be pursued through the workers’ compensation insurance system that will provide coverage for end-of-life expenses. Also, a financial package to replace a percentage of lost income will be provided.
Source: newschannel10.com, “Man trapped in dump truck cab dies from his injuries”, Curtis Heyen, Oct. 18, 2016