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Construction workers’ accidents: Man killed by falling beam

On Behalf of | Aug 20, 2018 | Construction Workers' Accidents |

Some workplace accidents are not preventable. Outside forces such as weather can contribute to an accident despite all precautions to prevent one. On the other hand, many accidents are preventable as long as codes followed and safety measures are taken. Sadly, a California worker became another victim of one of the many construction workers’ accidents that occur throughout the state.

The 51-year-old worker was employed by a subcontractor that was hired to complete work on the Twin Peaks Tunnel in San Francisco. The tunnel is 100 years old and houses a path for the San Francisco Municipal Railways between two train stations. Work was being completed to add tracks and to repair ceilings, walls and the drainage system. During the work, a steel beam became loose and struck the worker.

Sadly, the worker did not survive his injuries and died later in a medical facility. Following the investigation, it was discovered that the subcontractor had been cited for safety violations in the past, including another injury that was fatal for another employee. City officials have accused the contractor of hiding the previous violations, and they are investigating the accident and the process in which contractors are chosen. Work has continued on the tunnel following clearance from Cal OSHA and the police.

Construction workers’ accidents are not uncommon due to the nature of the work needed to be completed within unstable work environments and around large, dangerous equipment. Some workers are fortunate to survive their injuries, but injuries result in missed time at work and expensive medical bills. Most workers are eligible to file for workers’ compensation insurance benefits, and many find the assistance of a California attorney makes the process smoother. Families who lose a loved one due to an accident at work may also be eligible to file a claim for death benefits, and they can better understand their options after discussing their case with an attorney.

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