San Jose Industrial Accidents Lawyers
Despite federal and state laws designed to prevent accidents at work,
industrial accidents are still disturbingly common. The U.S. Bureau
of Labor Statistics reports that there were more than 5,700 deaths
at work in 2005; the California Department of Occupational Safety
and Health reports 453 occupational deaths in California that year.
Thousands more were seriously injured at work; the BLS reports 4.6
injuries for every full-time private worker in 2005. The majority,
but by no means all, of industrial accidents in industries involving
the use of heavy equipment or automobiles: construction, agriculture
and natural resources extraction, manufacturing and transportation
professions. Common types of workplace accidents include:
- Falls
- Accidents with heavy machinery
- Electrocution
- Being hit by an object
- Automobile accidents
- Violent crimes
Both the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 and similar state laws require employers to adhere to a strict set of safety standards, including requirements to provide safety equipment, follow safety procedures and train employees in how to do their jobs without undue exposure to risk of death or serious injury. Unfortunately, these safety laws aren't always followed. Some employers simply overlook safety; others actively put profits ahead of the well-being of their workers. But regardless of the cause, when a worker is hurt on the job, his or her employer is legally liable for the accident and the serious injuries that result, which could include amputations, broken and crushed bones, brain and spinal damage, burns, asphyxiation and many others. These injuries are catastrophic, life-changing and painful, but they're also quite expensive, often requiring years of medical care, physical therapy and other ongoing care. If you've been hurt due to the negligence of your employer, you have the right to hold the employer responsible in court.
Many injured workers can and should collect workers' compensation payments, which can help them pay medical bills and maintain their families' income while they cannot work. Van Der Walde & Associates does not handle workers' compensation law, but even if you are collecting workers' compensation, we may still be able to help you. Very often, a workplace accident may involve a third party or a subcontractor who is not your primary employer. You are legally allowed to sue such a party even while collecting workers' compensation.
If you or someone you care about was seriously hurt or killed at work, you should call Van Der Walde & Associates as soon as possible. Industrial accident law is complex, and the statute of limitations may be quite short, depending on the circumstances. Van Der Walde & Associates can protect your rights, help evaluate your case and win you the best possible financial outcome. We have won millions for Northern California clients injured in industrial accidents and other types of accidents. And we always offer free consultations for potential clients, because we know injured people are often financially strained. To speak to an experienced California industrial accidents lawyer today, call Van Der Walde & Associates at 1-877-862-6288.
