A Pennsylvania man's death is being investigated by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The fatal accident took place in Lancaster on 27 November 2015, and the victim was a 42-year-old tree trimmer from Feasterville who was hired to clear branches from power lines for an apple-picking festival.
The man was trimming trees when he hit a high-voltage line, which then caught his work truck on fire. Authorities are unsure whether the man jumped or accidentally fell into the river. A spokesman for OSHA stated that the investigation could possibly take up to six months. Companies involved with the situation could be fined if it is determined that the accident was preventable.
OSHA will then make recommendations to help avoid another accident such as this one. According to the area's power company, the line that the tree trimmer struck carried 12,000 volts of electricity and was active while the tree trimming was in process. He also stated that contractors know which lines to work around due to their training.
Workplace accidents such as this can happen even though contractors may be properly trained in safety procedures. Accidents can stem from negligent operation of machinery, unsafe working conditions, and unaddressed safety hazards. Someone involved in an accident on the job may experience physical as well as emotional problems. Victims may have growing medical expenses that they are unable to pay, and they may have a difficult time returning to work for fear that they may be injured again. A personal injury attorney may be able to help workers who have been injured on the job by evaluating their case or even their employer's safety record and discussing possible options for compensation.
If you have been hurt on the job, call Mitch Dugan & Associates today for a free consultation at 1-888-99-DUGAN.
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