When a Georgia family loses a loved one while he or she is at work, the shock may be devastating. Apart from the huge personal loss, the unexpected expenses of a funeral and burial, along with the loss of income, could be overwhelming. The driver of a truck was recently killed in a workplace accident in another state.
The truck driver, an employee of a logistics company, was loading lumber at the premises of a supplier. The lumber was loaded onto the truck by an employee of the supplier, who was operating a forklift. Apparently, the truck driver left the safety of the cab to ensure the lumber was securely tied down.
It was reported that the forklift driver allegedly backed up, knocked down and drove over the truck driver. Despite the efforts of emergency workers, the driver could not be saved and died at the accident scene. Although police stated that this incident appeared to be an accident, the office of the medical examiner has initiated an investigation. An investigation by OSHA is also underway.
Residents of Georgia who have lost loved ones in a workplace accident, as the family in the case above, may benefit from gaining knowledge about the state laws and procedures of claiming benefits from workers’ compensation. The purpose of workers’ compensation is to compensate workers who were hurt at work, or the families of those who lost their lives. Compensation usually covers medical and/or end-of-life expenses as well as a portion of loss wages.
Source: oregonlive.com, “Truck driver killed by forklift at Molalla lumber mill“, Michael Bamesberger, March 24, 2014