Workplace Accidents Involving Defective Equipment

Death benefits are secured under Indiana’s workers’ compensation laws and are provided to the loved ones and beneficiaries of deceased workers. In the event of a work-related accident that results in a wrongful death, the benefactors of the deceased person will be eligible for funeral expenses and burial costs, as well as 500 weeks of death benefit payments. These payments may be available in a lump sum or in the form of structured payments.

What Is a Workplace Accident?

A workplace accident is an unexpected event that occurs in the course of employment, resulting in physical or mental harm to an employee. These incidents can range from minor injuries to severe, life-threatening conditions and can include illnesses acquired due to workplace conditions. 

According to OSHA, a workplace injury or illness is defined as “an abnormal condition or disorder,” which encompasses a wide array of physical and mental health issues such as cuts, fractures, sprains, amputations, skin diseases, and respiratory conditions.

Common Causes of Workplace Accidents

• Overexertion: This includes injuries related to excessive physical effort, such as lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy objects. Overexertion is a leading cause of workplace injuries and can result in musculoskeletal disorders.
• Falls on the Same Level: Slips, trips, and falls on the same level are common and can occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or obstacles in walkways. These incidents often lead to fractures, sprains, and other injuries.
• Falls to Lower Level: These accidents involve falls from heights, such as ladders, scaffolding, or roofs, and can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Proper use of fall protection equipment is essential to prevent these incidents.
• Struck by Object or Equipment: Workers can be injured by being hit by moving objects or equipment, which can cause bruises, fractures, or more severe injuries. This is particularly common in construction and manufacturing settings.
• Other Exertions or Bodily Reactions: This category includes injuries caused by bending, twisting, or reaching, which can lead to strains and sprains.
• Exposure to Harmful Substances or Environments: Workers may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, extreme temperatures, or other dangerous environments that can lead to acute injuries or long-term health issues.
• Machinery Malfunctions: Accidents involving machinery can occur due to equipment failure, improper use, or lack of maintenance, leading to severe injuries such as amputations or crush injuries.
• Repetitive Motion Injuries: These injuries result from performing the same motion repeatedly over time, leading to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.

Our Lawyers Are Here to Explain Employee Death Benefits Information

The significance of retaining an experienced death benefits lawyer cannot be overstated. In many instances, the involvement of a seasoned legal professional is pivotal to ensuring that payments are processed seamlessly and that beneficiaries receive the full extent of the benefits to which they’re entitled. 

Navigating the complexities of death benefits claims can be daunting, often involving intricate legal and procedural hurdles. An adept, experienced death benefits lawyer brings invaluable expertise, guiding clients through the process with precision and advocating on their behalf to secure the most favorable outcomes.

At Wagner Reese, our dedicated team of lawyers is committed to assisting you in the negotiation of lump sum awards and optimizing the terms of your settlement payments to serve your best interests. Our Indianapolis-based death benefits attorneys are equipped to represent survivors in various challenging scenarios, including situations where an autopsy is requested or where the survivors aren’t immediate family members of the deceased. 

By providing comprehensive legal support and personalized attention, we strive to ensure that our clients’ rights are protected and that they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Wrongful Death in the Workplace

Unfortunately, many workplace accidents lead to death. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people die due to the negligence of others—something that should never occur.

Accidental deaths in the workplace remain a concern in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 5,283 fatal work injuries in 2023, which translates to a rate of 3.5 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers. Additionally, the National Safety Council reports a 3% decrease in preventable work-related deaths, from 4,695 in 2022 to 4,543 in 2023.

Transportation incidents were the leading cause of work-related fatalities in 2023, accounting for 37% of all work-related deaths. These statistics underscore the ongoing risks faced by workers and the critical need for stringent safety measures and effective legal support to protect employees’ rights and well-being.

Turn to Wagner Reese for Legal Help for Workplace Deaths

For more information on the workplace accident death compensation your family may be entitled to following a workplace accident death, please contact Wagner Reese. Our experienced attorneys are here to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.