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Teen suffers fatal work injury

On Behalf of | Jun 20, 2013 | Workplace Accidents |

Any kind of work involving working on semi-trucks can be potentially dangerous given the sheer size of the vehicles. But, there are many safety standards and regulations in place all over the country to ensure these vehicles and those who work on them are safe. Despite safety regulations, a work injury is still possible and those in California who work with semi-trucks should be aware of their rights and protections.

Recently, a fatal work accident occurred while a teen worked on a semi-truck in a nearby state, highlighting how dangerous working with big trucks can be. The 17-year-old was under the front wheel of the vehicle checking the brakes. The driver got inside, started the vehicle, and for some reason it went forward a bit. The wheel landed on the boy and he died at the scene.

There is currently an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Division into the incident. It is unknown at this time if there may have been a mechanical failure or driver error that led to the death of the youth. It has been reported that the investigation could take six months.

While it is rare for a fatal work injury to take the life of a teen worker, it can happen under certain circumstances. When it comes to teenage workers, there are an entirely different set of standards and guidelines California employers must follow and practice. The family of this young man in particular may be entitled to compensation death benefits since he was fatally injured on the job.

Source: oregonlive.com, “Oregon OSHA investigating teen’s death at Northeast Portland truck repair shop,” Everton Bailey, June 6, 2013

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