BIRMINGHAM, A.L. — Working on a farm is physically demanding and comes with numerous risks. Farm workers are exposed to various hazards, from handling heavy machinery to working under extreme weather conditions.
When a farm worker is injured because of unsafe working conditions or negligence, it can lead to a personal injury case. Personal injury attorneys are important in such situations to ensure victims get fair compensation.
Keep reading to discover the common injuries farm workers are likely to sustain while on duty.
Physical Injuries
As mentioned, working with heavy machinery, sharp tools, and unpredictable environments makes farm workers more prone to injuries like:
- Cuts
- Bruises
- Fractures
Additionally, continuously lifting heavy objects can lead to back injuries, joint problems, and muscle strain.
If these injuries result from an employer’s failure to maintain equipment properly or lack of enough training on how to use equipment, that can be proof of negligence. In such situations, the injured could seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Pesticides Exposure
Exposure to harmful chemicals like pesticides can lead to respiratory issues, skin conditions, and long-term health problems. If a worker develops these conditions because of inadequate protective gear or unsafe application methods, they could pursue a personal injury case against their employer.
In cases of significant health damage, an attorney can help a victim seek long-term care and lost earning potential.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis develop over time from performing repetitive tasks such as harvesting or planting crops. If an employer fails to provide the necessary tools that ease this work or does not allow regular breaks, the injured worker could file a personal injury case for failing to prevent the injury.
In such cases, proving the injury causes and linking it to workplace practices can be very essential. A good personal injury attorney will help in collecting the required evidence and getting expert witnesses.
Animal-Related Injuries
Injuries from animals, such as bites and kicks, are not uncommon on farms. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 189 fatalities and 4,760 non-fatal injuries were recorded in the animal production industry in 2019, making it one of the most dangerous sectors to work in.
If the employer fails to ensure safety protocols when handling livestock, such as providing safety equipment, this can lead to a personal injury claim.
Heat Stroke and Dehydration
In extreme weather conditions, farm workers are vulnerable to heat stroke and dehydration, which could lead to hospitalization or even death. If an employer does not provide enough resting periods, access to water, and shelter from the sun, they could be held liable for neglecting a worker’s safety.
Causes of Injuries in the Farm
Some common causes of injuries on the farm include:
- Poor equipment maintenance. Farm machinery and tools require regular maintenance to operate safely. When equipment is not serviced frequently, it increases the risk of serious accidents.
- Lack of safety measures. Proper safety protocols are essential for protecting farm workers. This includes providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and offering safety training. If an employer fails to enforce safety measures like wearing gloves when handling chemicals, workers have grounds to pursue legal action in case of injuries.
- Inadequate supervision. New or inexperienced workers need appropriate training and oversight. Accidents can happen when workers are left unsupervised or without enough instruction on handling dangerous tasks and equipment.
These causes show how farmwork injuries are often due to unsafe working environments and employer negligence.
Conclusion
Farm work is full of risks, but some injuries are preventable with the proper safety measures. When a worker sustains serious injuries and can prove negligence, they have a right to pursue a personal injury case and seek compensation. This is a way of holding employers accountable and advocating for safe working environments.
