Some workers in California benefit from having a safe work environment where accidents and injuries are highly unlikely. Other workers face life-threatening dangers every time they report to their jobs. Agricultural workers are particularly at risk of on-the-job injuries.
A fatal accident on Oct. 29 at a Napa vineyard is an example of the risks faced by California agricultural employees. The tragedy happened at the Deconinck Vineyards in Napa at approximately 12:30 p.m. The fire department responded to a call about a worker who was caught up in a grape-picking device close to Silverado Trail.
The Napa Valley Sheriff’s Office said that emergency responders were on the scene within five minutes of the accident. However, they were unable to save the worker, who died at approximately 12:45 p.m. He was 49 years old.
According to the worker’s family members, their loved one had been working on the ground close to the machine when his clothing caught in the device. The machine pulled him into it, causing catastrophic injuries.
The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal OSHA) said that it is conducting an investigation into the accident to determine what happened.
When a worker dies on the job in California, their family members and financial dependents may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation death benefits. If your loved one died at work, make sure to learn about your legal rights and options under California workers’ compensation law. If successfully navigated, a death benefits claim could provide a vital means of supporting your family after the loss of your loved one.