Every single day, millions of people head off to work, full of hope and expectation that they will return home safely at the end of the day. It’s a routine that many of us take for granted. But sadly, not everyone is so fortunate. The harsh reality is that there are fatal work accidents happening all the time, and the consequences are devastating for both the workers and their families.
Here, we’ll look at some of the major causes of fatal workplace accidents, what can be done to prevent them, and the financial support available.
The Prevalence of Fatal Work Accidents
In 2021, there were 5,190 fatal work-related injuries reported in the United States, an increase of 8.9% from the previous year. This translates to a rate of 3.4 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers.
Certain industries are more prone to deadly accidents than others. For instance, workers in transportation and material moving occupations, as well as construction and extraction occupations, accounted for nearly half of all fatal occupational injuries in 2020.
Understanding the Causes
Fatal work accidents can occur due to a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include falls, being struck by an object, electrocution, and getting caught in or between objects. Inadequate safety measures, lack of proper training, human error, and hazardous work environments can all contribute to these accidents.
For instance, the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911, one of the deadliest industrial disasters in U.S. history, was largely due to locked exit doors and inadequate fire safety measures. The occurrence of this tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of proper safety protocols and how devastating the outcomes can be if they aren’t followed.
The Impact of Fatal Work Accidents
The consequences of fatal work accidents extend far beyond the loss of life. For the victim’s family, they suffer emotional implications such as grief, distress, and mourning for their lost loved one. The shock and pain experienced can last for years and affect their physical and mental well-being.
Workplace fatalities can have a profound impact on coworkers. Witnessing a horrific event can leave them traumatized and filled with fear. The emotional toll can be long-lasting, leading to significant psychological distress. Coworkers may require therapy or counseling to cope with their feelings and overcome any phobias or anxieties linked to the incident. Furthermore, survivors may feel guilty about not being able to prevent the accident or being unable to save their colleagues.
In addition to these emotional impacts, employers face serious consequences due to workplace deaths. Companies that disregard strict safety protocols or fail to ensure a safe working environment can face potential legal repercussions. Employers may be fined for workplace negligence or face lawsuits from victims’ families in case any security measures were breached.
Lastly, a company’s reputation can be severely tarnished in the aftermath of a work-related fatality. News about such incidents can spread quickly through social media platforms and other outlets, leading clients and customers to question whether they want to do business with a company that cannot guarantee employee safety. Additionally, potential job candidates might become hesitant about joining an organization known for hazardous working conditions.
Preventing Fatal Work Accidents
Preventing fatal accidents at work requires a comprehensive approach. This includes implementing and enforcing safety protocols, conducting regular inspections, providing ongoing training, and fostering a culture of safety within the workplace.
Employers must also comply with safety standards set by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In fact, OSHA’s most frequently cited standards violated in 2022 included fall protection in construction and hazard communication in general industry.
Conclusion
Fatal work accidents are a sobering reminder of the importance of workplace safety. By understanding the prevalence and causes of these accidents; we can take steps to prevent them and ensure that all workers return home safely at the end of the day.
Remember, safety is everyone’s responsibility. What steps will you take to make your workplace safer?
Looking for a lawsuit loan?
If you have suffered the tragic loss of a loved one due to a fatal workplace accident and are pursuing legal action against the employer, you might need financial assistance. Pre-settlement funding (or a lawsuit loan) is a non-recourse loan and an important tool that provides financial relief while you wait for your legal settlement. The amount and terms of the loan are based on the merits of the case. There is no repayment until you win your case. Pre-settlement legal funding can be a lifesaver for families who have lost a loved one and are struggling to make ends meet.
Applying for legal funding is simple. All you need is to ensure your attorney is present throughout the process. Once your lawsuit loan application is approved and the contract dually executed by you and your lawyer, you will receive a risk-free lawsuit cash advance to ease your financial difficulties in as little as 24 hours.
If you need further information, please feel free to reach out to us at (888) 711-3599. Baker Street Funding is available to assist you with any questions you may have and offer financial support to the best of our ability.
