Massachusetts workplace accident ends with fatality
There are many expectations for the holidays. Families in Massachusetts expect to spend time together opening gifts and making new memories, for example. Unfortunately, one family is now mourning the loss of their loved one after a fatal workplace accident. While details of the incident are unclear, the family may be considering what death benefits rights exist for them under the state’s workers’ compensation laws.
The accident reportedly occurred on Christmas Eve at Inner-Tite Corp, a company that manufactures locks and other types of security devices used on gas, telecommunications, electric and water meters. While a representative for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration confirms that a 30-year-old man died in an accident, the federal agency has not released any other details regarding the accident, noting that the event remains under investigation. The purpose of its investigation is to determine the cause of the accident and whether any health or safety standards were violated leading to the accident.
While the cause of the accident is unclear, the victim reportedly worked as a machinist with the company. He leaves behind his wife and two young children. Those familiar with the situation have established a scholarship fund for the children.
While many communities and families rally behind victims of accidents such as this by providing both emotional and financial support, their efforts are often insufficient in regard to providing for a grieving family. While coping with funeral expenses, this man’s family must also adjust to the loss of his wages. Fortunately, Massachusetts requires that employers provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage to protect employers and their families financially in the event of a workplace accident — benefits that typically extend to dependent family members in the event of a fatal accident. Many families, however, have found that the path to compensation can be complicated, prompting them to seek the guidance of an experienced professional to help them through the process.
Source: telegram.com, “OSHA probes death of Worcester man after accident at Inner-Tite Corp. in Holden“, Aaron Nicodemus and Mark Sullivan, Dec. 30, 2015
