Workplace accident involving exploding tire kills 1, injures 1

As many in Massachusetts are likely aware, working on a car can sometimes have hidden dangers. If the work involves raising or lowering a vehicle, for example, the worker could face a significant risk. Unfortunately, a recent out-of-state workplace accident has resulted in a fatality and a serious injury due to an exploding tire.

The incident happened at a Sears Auto Center one day in December. A customer reportedly asked a Sears employee to place a tire on a specific rim. Unfortunately, while the 22-year-old male employee did so, the tire exploded. Debris reportedly struck both the employee and the 23-year-old male customer.

The worker passed away after being transported to the hospital due to blunt force injuries to his head. The customer also suffered severe head injuries and was transported to the hospital by helicopter. Some people familiar with the process claim that the tire could have exploded for a variety of different reasons, including overinflation and a defect in the tire.

The last thing families are likely thinking of as they go through the holiday season is how they will cope with the unexpected loss of a loved one. Many families in Massachusetts who have lost a family member in a workplace accident have found themselves struggling with their emotional and financial well-being. However, the state requires that employers provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage to protect employees and their family in case they are injured at work, and these benefits can cover funeral expenses and lost wages, among other costs. While entitled to these benefits, many have found it necessary to have an experienced professional on their side as they seek fair compensation. In this tragedy, the customer likely has a separate right to pursue a claim for personal injuries in a civil court.

Source: necn.com, “Police: Sears Auto Employee Dead After Tire Explosion, Customer Injured“, Crystal Garner, Dec. 19, 2015