Many miners in West Virginia and elsewhere constantly work in and around potentially unstable environments and a sudden collapse in the ground or walls of a mine can have disastrous consequences. Coal mine accidents that occur under similar circumstances run the risk of placing the well-being of workers at risk, or in some cases, leaving loved ones to mourn over an untimely death. A recent accident at a mine in a neighboring state has reportedly claimed the life of a 48-year-old man.
According to reports, the incident took place as a employee with 12 years of experience was positioning a cable and water line for an underground mining machine. For reasons unknown, a nearby wall suddenly collapsed, leaving the man with severe injuries to his lower body. He was reportedly rushed to a hospital for treatment shortly after the incident took place, where he was listed in critical condition.
Unfortunately, the man passed away around a week later. While an investigation into the incident is currently underway, no further information was provided as to what might have caused the wall to suddenly collapse. Losing a loved one under similar circumstances can be a difficult thing to accept and such a loss could leave a family facing a variety of hardships in life, emotional and financial alike.
Following fatal coal mine accidents, families may face the financial burdens that can accompany extensive medical bills and end-of-life expenses. While surviving loved ones may be eligible for relief through the workers’ compensation insurance system, they might not be certain where to turn for assistance in navigating the process. However, by obtaining the services of an experienced attorney, a person in West Virginia could become better prepared to pursue the full amount of compensation achievable through every applicable source.