September 18, 2013
The Indiana Workers’ Compensation Attorneys with Stewart & Stewart Attorneys explain that a leading cause of on-the-job injuries is transportation accidents. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate that last year alone, these accidents accounted for two out of every five fatal workplace accidents.
One work-related transportation accident resulted in the City of Indianapolis facing $80,000 in fines after the death of a waste management employee. According to The Indianapolis Star, the incident occurred on April 8, at the corner of 35th and Bancroft Streets.
Reports indicate that the 45-year-old victim was riding on the rear of the truck on his route. At one stop, the victim jumped from the rear of the vehicle as the driver was preparing to back up. The driver did not see the victim and ran him over.
Investigators with the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigated the accident and found workers with the Department of Public Works repeatedly violating safety regulations regarding the transportation of workers.
The city has 15 days to either comply or contest the investigation’s findings. Furthermore, the department had a responsibility to ensure workers adhered to safety regulations.
Stewart & Stewart Attorneys’ team of Indiana Personal Injury Lawyers recognizes the importance of following all safety protocols while on the job and are hopeful the ruling helps bring the family of the victim some closure.