In December 2024, a serious tractor-trailer accident at 470 Mast Road, Goffstown, NH, has left a utility worker with severe injuries, highlighting the critical importance of understanding the victim's rights to workers' compensation and a potential 3rd party negligence claim against the driver of the tractor trailer.
The Goffstown, NH tractor-trailer Accident: Utility Worker Injured on Mast Road
On December 19, 2024, Goffstown police and firefighters responded to a significant tractor-trailer accident at 741 Mast Road. A utility worker in his 60s was operating from the elevated bucket of a utility truck when a northbound tractor-trailer collided with the boom and bucket. The impact ejected the worker, causing him to fall to the ground near a severed pole. He suffered serious injuries, including a head injury, and was transported to Elliot Hospital after briefly losing consciousness.
Potential Causes: Environmental Factors Under Investigation
At the time of the Goffstown NH tractor-trailer accident, it was reported that there was notable solar glare from the sun and reflections off the wet pavement. Authorities are investigating whether these environmental factors contributed to the collision. The tractor-trailer involved was associated with Hood Milk Products, and New Hampshire State Police Troop G, specializing in commercial vehicle accidents, has been engaged to assist in the investigation.
Workers' Compensation and Personal Injury Options
Injuries sustained while performing work duties typically qualify for workers' compensation benefits, a no-fault system designed to provide financial support for employees injured on the job. This system ensures coverage for medical expenses, wage replacement, and vocational support, regardless of who was at fault for the injury. Visit Apis Law's Worker's Compensation Page for more information.
Key Rights of Injured Workers:
Choice of Treating Physician: Injured workers have the right to select their healthcare provider.
Lifetime Medical Expense Coverage: Workers' compensation covers all medical costs related to the work injury for life.
Disability Benefits: Eligible workers can receive benefits for both temporary and permanent disabilities.
Vocational Rehabilitation: If unable to return to their previous job, workers may receive training for a new career.
Respect and Dignity: Employers and medical providers must treat injured workers with respect and dignity.
If a claim is denied or rights are violated, consulting an experienced attorney is crucial to challenge the decision and secure entitled benefits.
Exploring 3rd Party Recovery Options
When a workplace injury results from the negligence of a party other than the employer or a co-worker, the injured worker may pursue a third-party claim in addition to workers' compensation benefits. These claims often provide compensation beyond what workers' compensation offers, including damages for pain and suffering, long-term medical costs, and other related expenses.
Common Scenarios for Third-Party Claims:
Motor Vehicle Accidents: If a worker is injured in a car accident caused by another driver while performing work duties.apislaw.com
Construction Site Accidents: Injuries resulting from the negligence of contractors or subcontractors on a job site.
Defective Products or Equipment: Injuries due to malfunctioning machinery or safety gear.
In this Goffstown incident, if the tractor-trailer driver's negligence is established, the injured utility worker could pursue a third-party claim against the driver or the company employing the driver, in addition to receiving workers' compensation benefits.
Steps to Take Following a Work-Related Injury
Report the Injury: Immediately inform your employer and complete an accident report form.
Seek Medical Attention: Notify healthcare providers that the injury is work-related to ensure proper documentation and billing.
Consult an Attorney: An experienced workers' compensation attorney can guide you through the claims process, help protect your rights, and explore potential third-party claims.
For residents in Goffstown, NH, and surrounding areas, like Manchester and Bedford, Apis Law offers comprehensive legal assistance in workers' compensation and personal injury cases. Their team serves as advocates, counselors, and litigators, ensuring that injured workers receive the support and compensation they deserve.
They provide free case evaluations and operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients only pay if they win their case.
Conclusion
Workplace injuries, such as the tractor-trailer accident in Goffstown, NH, underscore the importance of understanding your rights under workers' compensation laws and the potential for third-party recovery. Navigating these legal avenues can be complex, but with the assistance of experienced professionals, injured workers can secure the compensation necessary for their recovery and future well-being.
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