Farm work can be very hazardous. Between working near heavy machinery and exposure to toxins and chemicals, farm workers are at risk of various injuries and illnesses.
Unfortunately, farm accidents can sometimes lead to fatalities. Here are some common types of farm accidents that can result in a farm worker’s wrongful death:
Tractor accidents
Tractor accidents are one of the most common and deadly hazards farm workers face. Specifically, tractor rollovers are the leading cause of farm-related deaths. These can occur due to improper use, lack of safety equipment or uneven terrain.
Machinery accidents
Entanglement in or being struck by parts of heavy farm machinery, such as combines, harvesters and other specialized equipment, can be fatal. These accidents can occur because of missing safety guards or the failure to follow safety procedures due to a lack of proper training.
Toxic chemical exposure
Farm workers are at risk of fatal toxic chemical exposure due to the frequent use of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers in farm work. Improper handling or storage of pesticides and other chemicals can lead to accidental poisoning or long-term health effects that result in death.
Fall accidents
Farm workers often face the risk of falls during their daily tasks, which can occur in various situations and lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. This includes falling from ladders, haylofts, large machineries or other heights on the farm.
Heatstroke and hypothermia
Extreme temperatures can lead to heatstroke or hypothermia, which can be fatal, particularly if the injured worker fails to seek prompt medical attention. Hence, it is important for agriculture employers to ensure the weather is suitable for farm work before sending their workers out in the open.
If you believe your loved one’s death resulted from a farm accident due to another’s negligence or disregard for safety protocols, you may seek legal action for wrongful death to obtain compensation for your loss.