CONSTRUCTION WORKERS’ ACCIDENTS: WORKER KILLED BY FALLEN POLE

Despite safety measures, construction sites in Illinois and across the country are dangerous work environments. The amount of crew required, the large equipment and sometimes unstable locations as areas are developed can result in accidents. Unfortunately, because of the nature of the work site, construction workers’ accidents can result in serious and fatal accidents. One worker in another state lost his life while working with a crew to install a light pole.

The 25-year-old worker was part of a crew that was installing new poles for lights at an intersection. Apparently, some of the lights had already been successfully installed, but a broken chain prevented the success of all pole installments. The crew was using the assistance of a crane to install the large 39-foot pole when a chain broke, and it crashed down on top of the victim.

Sadly, the victim was crushed and suffered serious injuries. He did not survive to be transported for further medical intervention and was pronounced dead at the scene. Local and state authorities closed the intersection until the accident was cleared and to collect evidence for the investigation. The company completing the project is expected to participate in the investigation, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is expected to perform their own investigation.

As in this incident, construction workers’ accidents can result in serious and fatal accidents. Most employers are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage, and families in these circumstances may meet the specific requirements to be eligible for death benefits. Unfortunately, grieving families may find the workers’ compensation claims system difficult to navigate. Many families find an Illinois employment lawyer comforting to assist them through the claims process in pursuit of all applicable benefits.

Source: CBS Pittsburgh, “Utility Worker Killed By Falling Pole In Pine Twp“, Amy Wadas, Dec. 20, 2017