A 36-year-old crane-operator was killed this past week after being ejected from his crane after the machine overturned. The incident occurred at a steel plan in Michigan. According to reports, the man’s death was ruled accidental by the county coroner. The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, however, is initiating an investigation into the incident.
The investigation is especially prudent as this was the second serious accident at the jobsite in less than four months. Another man was previously killed at the plant and two more workers were injured when a ladle accidently turned over causing a fire and subsequent explosion back in December.
The plant operators explained that the most recent victim was not an employee of the steel plant. Rather, he was allegedly employed by a third-party contractor working at the site. In general, this distinction can be important but it may not absolve employers of liability in some cases.
Those injured on a construction site are entitled to compensation for their injuries and lost wages. Michigan regulates workers’ compensation benefits. In addition, in some cases a claim against a non-employer may exist. Given the complexity between many employment and contractual relationships, those injured are urged to look into their legal options.
Obtaining workers’ compensation benefits has helped workers and their families get back on their feet after an accident. Whether it be a ladder fall causing broken bones or a more severe incident causing a permanent disability or death, filing a claim through the workers’ compensation system can help ensure that appropriate benefits are paid to those hurt by the incident.
Source: Detroit Free Press, “Worker killed in Ecorse crane accident ID’d as Warren man,” April 7, 2014