Construction workers in Colorado and across the country work in and around hazardous environments and equipment every day. With the presence of heavy machinery and materials, the risk of injury is ever-present should an accident occur. A 55-year-old man was killed in a recent construction accident in another state, after reportedly being crushed by a counterweight.
The incident occurred on a recent Thursday morning inside the building of a construction company that specializes in heavy machinery. At some point during his shift, a counterweight for a construction vehicle fell on top of him, pinning him underneath. Upon arrival, emergency responders assert that he was unconscious, and though they were able to free him, he was unfortunately pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The incident is currently under investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The federal agency will attempt to determine what might have caused it to occur. Falling objects can pose a significant threat to the health of construction workers, especially those heavy enough to provide stability to large machines. While workers are generally required to wear safety gear and follow strict procedures, similar incidents can still end in serious injuries to those involved, or worse.
A fatal construction accident can be devastating in numerous ways, leaving surviving family members to grieve over an untimely loss. With the extensive cost of end-of-life expenses, a family may also find themselves facing financial challenges, potentially spurring a need for relief. When facing a similar situation, a family in Colorado could choose to speak with an experienced attorney for advice on available options for compensation, as well as assistance in navigating the process.
Source: CBS Pittsburgh, “1 Dead In North Huntingdon Construction Accident“, Brenda Waters, Aug. 10, 2017