Defective machinery in the workplace poses a constant risk of injury to workers. If a worker is injured due to such a defect, they have the right to pursue a third-party claim for compensation. In addition, they may also be eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits to help cover the costs of their injuries.
“Improper design, manufacturing, and installation are the leading causes of workplace injuries from industrial equipment. In such a case, the worker suffers injuries regardless of their training experience and safety measures taken,” says Rich Godshall of Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers.
Here is a guide on what to do if you are involved in an accident involving defective machinery.
All You Need to Know About Injuries From Defective Machinery
Construction, manufacturing, drilling, extraction, and mining workers are more likely to encounter heavy machinery at work. This includes power tools, bulldozers, cranes, excavators, forklifts, and trawl winches.
Moreover, workers in other industries can still get injured if workplace equipment is misplaced, defective, or poorly maintained. Here are some common examples of workplace machinery defects:
- Faulty wiring and electrical components
- Overheating
- Lack of safety devices
- Low-quality or incorrect materials by the manufacturer
- Lack of safety guidelines
- Assembly or installation errors.
The size, weight, and operating speed of industrial equipment magnifies the risks associated with these products. If not checked and fixed in time, they could result in catastrophic injuries with long-term consequences.
Common defective product accidents include:
- Electrocution from false wiring
- Falls to lower levels of equipment
- Toxic chemical exposure
- Forceful impacts by moving parts
- Fires and explosions from chemical spills
- Trapping in between or under machinery
Workers may suffer the following injuries from such accidents:
- Amputations
- Crush injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Torn ligaments
- Spinal cord injuries
- Vision or hearing loss
- Burns and smoke inhalation
Dealing With the Fallout of an Injury
If you are involved in a workplace injury, here is what to do:
Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial to seek medical treatment right after an accident, even if you are in pain. Have your doctor check you out, as some injury symptoms take time to show.
Seeking medical attention also provides proof and documentation of the type and magnitude of your injuries. Keep all medical records, such as hospital bills, prescriptions, and medical reports, safe for future claims and legal proceedings.
Report the Incident to Your Supervisor
You should notify your employer of the accident immediately. Depending on the employer, you might be required to report the accident verbally or written. Include the details of the accident, such as when, where, and where it happened. If your colleagues were with you, remember to take their statements and contact information.
Hire an Attorney
Before filing your compensation claim, hire a qualified attorney to help with the proceedings. They are knowledgeable in this field and will help you recover compensation by filing the claim, representing you in court, and negotiating a reasonable settlement.
Legal Options for Victims of Defective Machinery Accidents
Determining liability in defective machinery accidents is challenging as multiple parties are involved with the devices’ manufacture, assembly, distribution, and installation. Fortunately, your lawyer will help identify and take legal action against all liable parties. With the help of your attorney, you can file a liability lawsuit against all responsible parties.
Final Thoughts
Workplace accidents are common, and one must familiarize oneself with the steps to take after injury. Always seek advice from a qualified attorney, as sometimes the legal system is challenging to navigate without experience. Regardless, always take caution when dealing with dangerous machinery.
Media Information:
Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers
518 E. Township Line Road Suite 100 Blue Bell, PA 19422
(484) 351-0350
