St. Louis Industrial Equipment Accident Lawyer

For more than 30 years, the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, has been helping injured industrial plant employees protect their rights to workers’ compensation benefits.

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St. Louis Industrial Plant Accident Lawyer

Industrial plants and refineries are governed by federal laws regulated under the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). However, despite the numerous safety laws, industrial accidents are all too common. Workers in industrial plants, oil and gas refineries, and manufacturing facilities are particularly at risk of getting seriously injured or even killed in industrial or plant accidents. These accidents not only harm the worker but also cause immense financial and emotional damage to the entire family. St. Louis Industrial Equipment Accident Lawyer will discuss the various causes of industrial plant accidents and what options injured workers have.

Common causes of industrial plant accidents in St. Louis

While there can be various causes of such accidents, and thorough investigation may be required to find out the exact cause. However, some of the most commonly reported causes include:

Failure to properly train workers
Failure to conduct regular safety inspections
Failure to provide fall protection
Negligent hiring of workers
Failure to maintain the machinery or equipment
Failure to implement or follow proper tag out/lock out procedures
Failure to provide proper PPE – welding masks, safety goggles or other safety equipment

Common types of industrial plant accidents in St. Louis

Industrial accidents can take many forms. However, they all have one thing in common: they all cause widespread and even permanent injuries to workers. These accidents can also lead to fatalities and affect not only the workers but the residents of surrounding areas as well. Some accidents that can occur in industrial settings include:

Manufacturing Facility Accidents
Offshore Platform Explosions
Fabrication Shop Accidents
Oil and Gas Refinery Accidents and Explosions

Considering the seriousness and scale of these accidents, it is needless to say that they can cause significant injuries. While some accidents cause only minor injuries, others can cause catastrophic injuries. Some of the injuries that are commonly reported after an industrial accident include:

While this list is far from exhaustive, it gives us a fair idea of how damaging industrial accidents can be. Most of these injuries are serious enough to leave a worker disabled for a long time and can cause immense pain and suffering.

What can an injured worker do?

As we just discussed, industrial accidents are often serious and can cause severe injuries that require extensive treatment and prolonged therapy. Some workers may not be able to return to work for a long time, and some may never be able to work again in their lifetime. This can be a huge financial burden to the already stressed family of the injured worker. Thankfully, workers compensation covers all the medical expenses and part of the wage loss resulting from the work-related injuries.

If the injury is a result of third-party negligence, such as a defective piece of equipment, you may have a third-party claim. Speak to an experienced St. Louis Industrial Equipment Accident Attorney, who can protect your rights and ensure that you are adequately compensated for your injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Industrial Equipment Accidents

What qualifies as an industrial equipment accident?

An industrial equipment accident typically involves incidents at work where machinery, vehicles, or tools malfunction or are misused, leading to injury or harm. This can include accidents resulting from inadequate training, poor maintenance, or failure to follow safety protocols. In industrial settings like manufacturing plants or construction sites, these accidents might involve heavy machinery, electrical equipment, or hazardous materials.

What are my rights as an injured worker in an industrial accident in St. Louis?

In Missouri, injured workers are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which can cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. If your injury was caused by a third party’s negligence, you might have the right to file a separate personal injury claim against that party.

How does workers’ compensation work in Missouri for industrial accidents?

Workers’ compensation in Missouri provides benefits to employees injured on the job without the need to prove employer negligence. After reporting your injury to your employer, they should file a claim with their insurance. You should then receive benefits covering medical care and a portion of your wages if you’re unable to work. It’s important to file a claim promptly, as delays can affect your eligibility.

Can I sue my employer or a third party for my injuries in an industrial accident?

While Missouri’s workers’ compensation system typically prohibits suing your employer for workplace injuries, there are exceptions, such as in cases of intentional harm. However, if a third party, like an equipment manufacturer or another contractor, contributed to your injury, you might have the basis for a third-party liability claim. This can allow you to seek damages beyond what workers’ compensation covers, such as pain and suffering.

Contact a St. Louis Industrial Plant Accident Lawyer

At the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, our St. Louis workplace accident lawyer, has a strong history of helping injured workers get the medical attention and financial compensation that they need. Contact our St. Louis, Missouri workers compensation law firm to ensure that your rights are protected. Please call (314) 361-4300 or toll free at (314) 361-4300. You can also complete our Online Case Evaluation Form. All communications are returned promptly.