EspañolCal/OSHA Investigating Death of Wonderful Company Orchard Farmwoker In Los Hills
LOST HILLS, CALIFORNIA (August 14, 2024) – A Wonderful Company orchard farm worker tragically died after being crushed by machinery.
Kern County officials are saying that the incident took place around 7:30 a.m. on Monday. The circumstances surrounding the accident remain largely unknown.
The employee worked as a contractor and was crushed in the operation of their duties. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim.
But they were beyond medical aid and later died. Cal/OHSA is currently conducting an investigation into the fatal accident at Wonderful Farm orchard.
Liability For Almond Harvesting Accidents
Despite many years of workplace safety standards, far too many people are killed or injured every year in the agricultural industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “In 2021, there were 133 fatal work-related injuries to agricultural workers, 15 fewer than in 2020 and the lowest number since 2013 (128). Twenty-five involved motor vehicle incidents occurring entirely off a public roadway. One of every eight of these types of motor vehicle-related fatalities in the United States was to an agricultural worker in 2021.” There are a number of common reasons that accidents take place in a farm setting.
- Machinery Accidents: Many workers are injured in accidents involving heavy equipment. Tractors, combines and balers can be particularly dangerous.
- Falls: Agriculture often requires workers to perform duties at heights. Uneven surfaces and unsecured ladders can easily cause a worker to fall.
- Chemical Exposure: Farm workers are often exposed to hazardous chemicals. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health consequences, including cancer.
When a worker is injured on the job, their family will typically have recourse through a worker’s compensation claim. In California, worker’s compensation operates off of a no-fault insurance claim. There is no need for an injured worker or their family to demonstrate liability. The family of a deceased worker may also be able to seek aid through a third-party liability claim. A third-party liability claim may be possible if an entity separate from a worker’s employer contributed to an accident. There could be numerous sources of third-party liability for any farm accident.
- A general contractor could be responsible for failing to maintain a worksite in a reasonably safe condition.
- The company that manufactured a piece of machinery could be liable if the machinery was defective in some way.
- Contractors and subcontractors could be liable if their negligence contributed to the accident.
The vast majority of workplace accidents are completely preventable. They tend to involve instances where general contractors are not following OSHA safety guidelines. This could include failing to train workers on how to use pieces of heavy equipment. The family of any person who died in a farm accident may be able to seek some measure of justice through a wrongful death claim. A personal injury attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Getting Legal Help For Farm Accidents
We at the Carrillo Law Firm, LLP extend our deepest condolences to the family of the contractor who died at the Wonderful Company orchard. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to Cal/OSHA. It is our sincere hope that measures are taken to prevent similar incidents down the road.
Do you need more information about a Lost Hills farm accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys is here for you. We are committed to helping workers and their families get the support and justice that they deserve under the law. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at 626-799-9375.
