Industrial Accidents tend to be particularly catastrophic compared to workplace injuries that can occur in any type of job. Workers employed in industrial and manufacturing plants have some of the most dangerous jobs and place themselves at risk for serious injuries or even death on a daily basis.
It isn’t every day you expect to be involved in an accident on the job when you go to work. Every day Industrial Accidents involving people happen all throughout the world.
However, there are processes to take for legal protection if you are a victim of an industrial accident. Whether you work in a chemical plant, power plant, factory, refinery, warehouse or distribution center, your exposure to large equipment, chemical substances and/or volatile materials put you at risk.
When someone with an injury requires the help from an Alabama or Mississippi personal injury lawyer, our highly experienced attorneys at Pepper & Odom are ready to fight for your rights!
Types and Causes of industrial accidents
When you’re employed in a dangerous workplace like an industrial plant or refinery, avoid injuries by being aware of common industrial accidents that may occur. These may include:
- Electrical or chemical-based fires and explosions
- Electrocutions
- Radiation exposure
- Inhalation of toxic chemicals
- Equipment malfunctions
- Falls from ladders, scaffolding and other high places
- Falling debris
- Slip and fall hazards
Also, be on the lookout for common causes that can lead to these accidents, which can include:
- Plant owner, manager or co-worker negligence
- Disregard for or violation of OSHA regulations
- Improper training
- Improper handling of toxic or volatile chemicals
- Outdated, improperly maintained or malfunctioning equipment or facilities
- Failure to provide appropriate or adequate safety equipment
- Defective or improperly maintained safety gear
After the accident, report to your supervisor
Upon being injured at work, your supervisor is to be notified of the incident. Once your manager or supervisor on duty is aware of the situation, it is important to have them file an incident report for the accident.
The report should notate the character of the accident, the injuries sustained, and steps that were taken after the incident. If you decide to file any type of claim, you may need the incident report.
Employers are required by law to write a report of industrial accidents.
Seek medical attention immediately
After the accident, be sure to seek a medical professional for any diagnosis or treatments. Even if you feel fine the same day of the accident, symptoms could occur afterwards up to a week or longer.
Never assume you are uninjured if you see no physical injuries, as you could sustain an injury internally. After getting medical treatment, there is potentially no way to file your claim if your injuries occur later on.
Getting legal assistance for industrial accidents
Getting a consultation from an attorney after filing a report and getting medical attention is the next crucial process. If you have a justifiable claim for an industrial accident against your employer, a personal injury attorney can help you win your case.
Assuming your employer’s insurance company has your best interests in mind or that you have no valid claim is a mistake. Industrial Accidents are often overwhelming, which causes people involved in these incidents to lose focus and that makes it easier for mistakes to be made.
Having the help of an attorney who has knowledge of the court system and industrial accidents can assist you with your claim.
Hire a personal injury lawyer that focuses on industrial accidents
If you or loved one has been hurt in any industrial accidents, Pepper & Odom can help. We work hard to ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
We represent personal injury clients statewide in Alabama and Mississippi and offer free initial consultations. Plus, no recovery, no fee! Contact us online or in Birmingham, Alabama at 205-250-1107 or Jackson, Mississippi at 601-202-1111 for legal assistance today!