Injuries caused by mechanical equipment failure

The Massachusetts workers’ compensation attorneys at Kantrovitz & Associates are dedicated to serving the legal needs of injured workers and their families. For over 20 years, we have succeeded in recovering substantial benefits for victims injured by mechanical equipment failure and other workplace accidents. We are honored to serve injured workers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.

Mechanical Equipment Failure

Today’s workplace relies on mechanical equipment designed to expedite production and, in many cases, eliminate the need for workers. But humans are still expected to run the machines and often face serious injuries when equipment fails. Mechanical failure can shut down an operation and severely harm employees. Typical work machinery includes:

• Pumps, fans
• Belt conveyers
• Blowers, gears
• Hydraulic hoses
• Plastic extruders
• Cylinders, turbines
• Aluminum bus bars
• Printing or food presses
• Electric welders, grinders
• Compressors, compactors

The breakdown of component parts often causes further damage, resulting in mechanical failure. Many times, the machine itself is flawed because of a manufacturing defect. In other accidents, failure to correctly assemble or repair the equipment causes malfunction. Old machines can also experience wear and tear, eventually breaking down. Mechanical failure often involves:

• Misalignment
• Surge overloads
• Broken gear sets
• Oil contamination
• Inadequate cooling
• Scoring, distortions
• Chips or breaks in parts
• Metallurgy, electrolysis

Whether the failure is caused by construction or corrosion, the damage can be massive. Employees working close to machinery may be vulnerable to flying parts, electric shock, and chemical spills. Although workers should be trained in safety and wear protective clothing, mechanical equipment failures are often sudden and, in many cases, deadly.

Mechanical Equipment Injuries

The failure of critical equipment can put workers in critical condition. Today’s employees work with powerful and dangerous machinery on a daily basis. Most machines are outdated and do not warn of malfunction. Mechanical failure can therefore result in devastating injuries, including:

• Burns, scars
• Electrocution
• Loss of vision
• Broken bones
• Crushing injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Exposure to toxins
• Spinal cord damage
• Lost use of body parts
• Traumatic brain injury
• Permanent disfigurement

Massachusetts workers’ compensation law provides needed benefits to workers injured by mechanical equipment failure. Employers and their insurance companies are required to pay workers’ compensation benefits for job-related injuries, regardless of fault.

Workers’ Compensation Payment

Workers’ compensation allows employers to compensate injured employees for lost workdays or physical restrictions that prevent them from returning to full duty. Workers that cannot maintain employment due to injuries caused by mechanical failure may be entitled to benefits for lost income, medical expenses, and vocational rehabilitation. Weekly payments amount to approximately 60% of the worker’s average weekly wage and may be awarded in a lump-sum settlement. The amount and duration of compensation often depend upon the severity of injury.

Recover Benefits Today

If you were injured due to a mechanical equipment failure, contact the Massachusetts workers’ compensation lawyers at Kantrovitz & Associates today. As veteran litigators, we understand the legal issues and restrictions workers face and can help you maximize your award. For over 20 years, we have fought for full payment of benefits to workers in Boston, Norfolk, Essex, Suffolk, Plymouth, Middlesex, and Merrimack Counties. Call (800) 267-0871 for a free consultation or contact us online.