Two public workers injured on the job in New Jersey
Many employees and employers in New Jersey understand the importance of worker safety in the workplace. A workplace injury could mean significant life changes for the injured. Not only is the person suffering an injury, but he or she may have to endure months of rehabilitation. It is in the best interest of the employer to ensure that employees will not have to miss work due to an injury or an illness that has occurred in the workplace. For instance, health and safety regulations should be up-to-date. It is also important to properly implement and educate everyone in the workplace in order to avoid on-the-job injuries.
Two public workers were injured in a recent car accident that occurred between the wood chipper they were operating and a third worker’s vehicle. The three-man crew was working that morning to clear away debris that was caused by Hurricane Sandy. During that time, a pickup truck was operated by one of the workers. The driver was re-positioning the vehicle along the street when it impacted with the rear of the wood chipper that the two workers were operating. The two workers were injured as a result of this impact and were each taken to a hospital. It was reported that the men sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Currently, the accident is still under investigation. However, workplace injuries and accidents like these could be caused by employee or employer negligence that is related to the safety of the work environment. Those who are injured on the job could file a workers’ compensation claim. This would cover any medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages and pain and suffering.
When employees are injured, it is important that they seek proper medical attention so that they can properly recover and return to work. Also, it is crucial that safety measures are implemented and hazards are assessed in the work environment in order to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.
Source: Hunterdon Review, “Two Clinton Public Works employees injured while clearing storm debris,” Nov. 8, 2012
