Mass Injury Workers’ Compensation
Industrial accidents can be devastating, resulting in severe injuries to multiple workers in a matter of moments. While many employees may be injured simultaneously, each individual must pursue his own workers’ compensation claim.
Industrial Accident Mass Injuries
Industrial accidents can cause a variety of serious injuries, including:
- Amputations.
- Lacerations caused by flying debris.
- First-, second-, and third-degree burns.
- Lung damage caused by inhalation of smoke or toxic fumes.
- Blown or injured eardrums due to an explosion.
- Impact injuries caused by the force of an explosion blast.
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries caused by open or closed head wounds.
Industrial Accident Mass Injury Events
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, fires and explosions resulted in 121 fatal occupational injuries during 2015.
Fires
When flammable chemicals, pressurized containers, and heat-powered tools such as soldering irons and flame torches are present, a serious fire hazard is created. Even just a single spark can create a major fire, leading to severe worker injuries. Workplace fires are frequently caused by:
- Temporary heating devices.
- Flammable and combustible liquids.
- Electrical malfunctions and shorts.
- Liquefied petroleum gas.
Explosions
Workplace explosions can cause a number of serious injuries to workers, and the severity of the injuries frequently depends on the proximity of the worker to the explosion. Explosions may also lead to other workplace hazards, such as fires and structural damage. Workers in manufacturing, mining, construction, chemicals, and oil and gas production are particularly vulnerable to injuries caused by explosions. Typical causes of workplace explosions include:
- Gas leaks.
- Boiler explosions.
- Equipment malfunctions.
- Overloaded transformers.
Handling Workers’ Compensation Claims
Even if all of the affected workers have similar injuries, their workers’ compensation claims must be filed separately. Furthermore, the workers’ compensation insurance company may not handle all of the claims in the same way. Some employees may easily qualify for benefits, while others may discover that their benefits have been reduced or denied.
You need representation by an experienced attorney in order to receive the compensation you deserve. To learn more about what the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., can do for you, visit us on Facebook.