Without electricity, the world would be a very different place. Therefore, a stable and reliable supply of electricity is important for most Virginia residents. In order to ensure that people have the electricity they need, power company workers risk their physical safety to install and maintain electrical lines. While this job is often done without issues, when workplace accidents happen for these worker, death or serious injury is likely.
Recently, a worker in Virginia was killed in a power line accident. According to reports, the 22-year-old man was in a bucket truck as crews were replacing power lines and towers. Somehow, one of the lines was let loose. The seemingly out of control line hit the bucket lift where the man was standing. The line was not hot at the time of the incident, therefore, no one was electrocuted.
However, the force of the line knocked the bucket lift to the ground. As a result, the worker fell between 60 and 70 feet to the ground below. The man died on the scene as a result of his injuries. Officials from the power company, Dominion Virginia Power, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are investigating the accident to try and determine its cause. Investigators say, however, that they have never seen an accident like this one before.
When a worker is injured on the job, the person can suffer serious financial setbacks. These problems are escalated when an accident results in workplace deaths. In either case, victims of the workplace injuries and their families should know their legal rights. Workers’ compensation may be available to victims and their families, which can help provide significant financial stability. These benefits can help families pay for the expenses caused by the accident and cover lost wages. Therefore, those who have been injured on the job may want to discuss the matter with an experienced Virginia attorney.
Source: News Leader, “Man working on power lines in Augusta County dies,” Traci Moyer, Sep. 12, 2015