Throughout the warmer weather months, the sights and sounds of construction can be a sign of a thriving economy and healthy job market. However, this type of labor comes with its own inherent risks and dangers, which can result in a construction accident and a worker suffering a serious injury. There are likely many Missouri residents who have been injured on the job and need to rely on the workers’ compensation program to stay afloat financially.
Recently, a large tunnel project claimed yet another victim when a worker suffered serious injuries. The accident occurred in the early morning and was purportedly caused by an unstable scaffolding. The structure tipped for unknown reasons, and a 58-year-old man fell approximately 15 feet.
Emergency responders stabilized the injured man and transported him to a local medical center. He reportedly suffered serious injuries, though no further details were provided. He is the fifth worker to be injured while working on the tunnel, which is scheduled to be open to traffic in 2019. Several investigations are being conducted to determine what caused this accident and to prevent any further incidents.
Previously, four other workers were injured when a steel structure they were working on collapsed. While no one has suffered fatal injuries in any of these accidents, those who were injured likely required time off of work in order to recover. It is for these instances that the workers’ compensation benefits program was created to help provide supplementary financial assistance. Whenever a Missouri resident suffers injuries through a construction accident or any other work-related injury or illness, he or she is entitled to file a claim for these often essential benefits. If one encounters difficulties during this process, an attorney who is experienced with this program may provide invaluable assistance.
Source: seattletimes.com, “Worker hurt in 15-foot fall in Highway 99 tunnel project“, Mike Lindblom, Aug. 7, 2017