California construction workers face any number of hazards while on the job. When the construction is taking place on a busy highway, the potential for a work injury often increases. In fact, a man was recently injured while working on the construction that is taking place on Highway 1.
According to reports, the 57-year-old victim was part of the crew working south of Seaside Beach where some construction barriers were set up on the highway. A dump truck was emptying dirt. Because the lane was not even, the trailer of the truck shifted. The 69-year-old driver was unable to prevent it from trapping the worker between the truck and the concrete barrier.
Emergency personnel rushed the man to an area hospital with moderate injuries. The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration was called in to conduct an investigation in accordance with existing policies. The results of that inquiry will determine whether the company was complicit in the accident.
In the meantime, the worker is being treated for his injuries and could be out of work for some time. Workers’ compensation benefits may be available to him. His medical-related expenses should be covered.
In addition, if he is going to be out of work for any appreciable amount of time because of this work injury, he may receive compensation for a portion of his lost wages. Depending on the nature and extent of his injuries, he may never be able to return to the work he used to do. In that case, additional benefits may be available to help him with disability payments, vocational training and other benefits.
Source: pressdemocrat.com, “Fort Bragg man injured on Highway 1 construction”, Glenda Anderson, Oct. 15, 2015