It goes without saying that some fields of employment are inherently more dangerous than others. When it comes to coal mining, workers in West Virginia workers face potential hazards every day. Even with constant increases in safety protocols and procedures, coal mine accidents continue to be an issue, and a recent mining accident in another state has claimed the life of a 34-year-old man.
According to investigating officials, the man was operating a mine transportation vehicle at the time of the incident. For reasons that remain unknown, the vehicle he was operating suddenly overturned. According to reports, his body was found within the mine on a recent Friday, and an autopsy indicated the cause of his death to be internal injuries.
No further information was provided, and an investigation into the incident reportedly remains underway. It is also unclear if any other workers were present at the time, and how long it took for him to be found after the incident took place. During the investigation, officials will likely take a variety of factors into account, such as the condition of the mine transportation vehicle, as knowing what may have caused the incident to occur may be an essential part of helping the surviving family members find closure.
Along with dealing with the emotional toll fatal coal mine accidents can have on families, the financial ramifications of a similar incident can be significant. Families who experience such a loss may be eligible for relief through the workers’ compensation insurance system. Since this can be a complex process, a person in West Virginia could consider retaining the services of an experienced attorney for assistance in pursuing the full amount of compensation achievable.
Source: tristatehomepage.com, “Man dies in Knox County mine accident“, Jake Boswell, March 19, 2018
