Construction is common in Charlotte and throughout North Carolina. Workers who are employed in this industry undoubtedly realize that there are certain risks in the tasks they perform. Accidents can occur without warning whether that is due to a vehicle mishap, a fall, an incident with a piece of heavy machinery, a mistake made by a co-worker, a structural problem, or employer negligence. If there is an accident, it is vital for the injured worker and his or her family to understand the importance of workers’ compensation benefits, what they provide and how to get them.
Retaining wall collapse causes severe injuries
Four construction workers were injured and one died after a wall collapse. The accident happened in the morning at about 9:30 a.m. as an independent contracting company was doing repairs at the base of the wall. The company had not gotten a permit for the work as was required. This is a rule for work on walls that are over 4 feet high. The wall that collapsed was between 10 and 12 feet high and around 100 to 150 feet long. The fire department spokesman said it simply tipped over.
Four of the workers were trapped under the rubble when emergency crews arrived. The one who was not trapped had minor injuries. The buried workers were freed from the rubble. Three of the workers were taken to various hospitals with serious injuries. The fourth person who was buried had died from his injuries. The cause of the accident is being investigated by local law enforcement. The Department of Labor is taking part. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is also expected to assess the incident.
The aftermath of a work accident can cause many challenges
Those who have been injured in a work accident should understand that they have rights. There can be medical expenses from a long hospitalization, treatments, rehabilitation and other aspects of care. This will inevitably be exorbitantly expensive. Injured workers may not be able to get back to work for an extended period and there could be obstacles preventing them from doing the same work they did before. The combination of medical costs and lost income can leave injured workers and the families wondering what to do.
Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits are available to cover for what was lost. In some instances, there is a dispute about the extent of the injuries, their severity and even if the claim should be approved at all. It is important for injured workers to be protected by a caring firm that puts the worker’s best interests at the forefront. Calling for a consultation is a wise first step.