forklift-accident-imageIf you work in construction or manufacturing, you probably already know that your job is more dangerous than most. Working around heavy equipment and machinery carries significant risks, and while the constant hammering about safety rules and regulations by your project manager can get old, those regulations are written and in place to keep everyone on the job site safe and alive.

One man, working for Choice Fasteners on Budde Road in South Montgomery County, lost his life recently when he was killed in a forklift accident while working.

According to YourHoustonNews.com, the 52-year-old man was killed just before 7:30 a.m. when the forklift he was operating went off the edge of the parking lot and down an embankment. When the forklift came to a rest, the worker was trapped underneath. Co-workers used another forklift to lift the machine off of the man, but it was too late. By the time the man reached the hospital in the care of EMS responders, he was dead.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration confirmed that it would be investigating the incident. OSHA investigations are standard when a workplace accident results in the loss of a life. The federal regulatory agency investigates to find the cause of the accident and whether any safety rules were violated leading up to it. This isn’t only done to place blame, but to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future.

The OSHA investigation could take several months. If it’s discovered the employer played a role in the fatal accident, it could face consequences, including fines for safety oversights.

The company, Choice Fasteners, made no comments regarding the accident and impending investigation.

Fatal workplace accidents are a tragedy for everyone involved. Obviously the victim suffers the biggest tragedy, but coworkers and family members are forced to deal with a death they weren’t prepared for. When it comes to losing a loved one in a tragic accident like this, it’s hard to know where to begin recovery.

The unexpected costs of a death only add to the emotional and mental stress of the loss itself. In some situations like this, a wrongful death claim can help bring closure to those closest to the victim.

Houston Workplace Accident Attorney

If you’ve been seriously injured on the job or if you’ve lost a loved one in a similar tragedy, Houston personal injury attorney Kevin Krist may be able to help you recover compensation. Contact our office today for a free consultation at 832-924-3185.