Farm work is dangerous. In fact, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) names agriculture as one of the most dangerous industries in the U.S. If you work in any type of agricultural job, this comes as no surprise. But do you know your rights if you are injured as a farm worker?
Farms that have more than 10 gainfully employed workers must follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Agricultural employers may be held liable if OSHA violations or other negligence causes injury to farm workers. People injured working on smaller farms may also have claims against negligent owners. Farm workers who suffer injuries from defective equipment or machinery may bring a claim against the negligent manufacturer.
What are the most common dangers of agricultural work?
Whether you work with crops or livestock, you are at risk for numerous accidents and exposure to hazardous conditions, including:
- Tractor rollovers and accidents
- Combine, baler, brush mower, thresher and grain auger accidents
- Grain elevator explosions
- Grain handling accidents
- Exposure to toxins
- Injuries caused by large livestock
- Fires
- Electrical accidents
- Farm equipment collisions with other vehicles
- Heat exposure
Agricultural workers may suffer serious or catastrophic injuries such as amputations, burns, broken or crushed bones, back injuries, spinal cord injuries and brain injuries. These types of injuries often result in permanent disability.
If you are permanently disabled from a farming accident, you need to know your rights. You will need compensation for your past, present and future medical bills as well as for lost wages. Speak with a workplace injury lawyer to learn how you may seek compensation from the negligent party or parties responsible for your injuries.
