Farm Equipment Accidents Overview
Agriculture is the second most dangerous industry in the United States. Harsh weather conditions, long working hours, and heavy equipment often combine to cause serious injury or even death to farm workers. Most farming injuries are caused by equipment, and often accidents can be traced to design flaws or manufacturing errors that are beyond the vehicle owners control. Farm equipment can and should be made safer to use, but until it is, the best way to stay safe on a farm is to become aware of all potential dangers and to be proactive in avoiding them.
Among the most common causes of farm equipment injuries are:
• Tractor rollover
• Chemical burns, including pesticides
• Grain handling equipment
• Slow-moving vehicle injuries
• Power take-offs
• Defective equipment
• Lack of safety shut-offs, guards, and shields
Common Farming Injuries
The weight and sheer mass of many pieces of farming equipment means that injuries sustained by farm workers are often severe or fatal. Common injuries suffered by farm workers include:
• Burn injuries
• Inhalation injuries
• Dismemberment and amputation
• Head injuries
• Cuts and lacerations
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Entanglement
• Crush injuries
Do I need a Lawyer?
In the past, it was common for farm workers who suffered injuries to assume responsibility for the accident that caused these injuries. Now, with modern insurance rules and stricter standards on the manufacturers who make farm equipment, public perception has changed to acknowledge that in most cases, the worker is not to blame. If you or someone you love has been injured after a farm equipment accident, you may have the right to sue responsible entities for your damages.
It is in your best interests to work with an experienced attorney who can help you thoroughly research the circumstances leading to the accident and determine who should be held legally accountable for injuries or fatalities sustained. You may be able to recover compensation for pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
For more information on zero turn radius mower accidents as well as riding lawn mower rollover injury, it is important to speak to a riding lawn mower accident lawyer to learn about your legal entitlements.
