Workplace Deaths at 7 Year High

According to preliminary numbers released by the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries from the U.S. Department of Labor, 2014 workplace fatalities increased to the highest levels since 2008. According to the reported data, a total of 4,679 workplace fatalities occurred in 2014, up 2 % from 2013’s total of 4,585.

The data indicates that the construction industry saw a 6% increase over 2013 and remains the industry with the most reported deaths. While construction remains the industry with the highest rate of fatalities, fatalities in oil and gas extraction increased by 27% to a 20 year high. Other industries with higher workplace fatalities include mining, agriculture and manufacturing.

When the numbers are broken down by occupation instead of industry, transportation and freight are shown to be the most dangerous, accounting for 28% of all fatal on the job injuries in 2014. Transportation incidents across all segments made up 40% of workplace fatalities last year.

While there is often an increased emphasis on enforcement of work-place safety standards, fatality rates have not improved.

You can never put a price on the loss of a family member or friend. However, certain situations warrant compensation from a party when someone has been wronged. Types of financial damages that are generally available under a wrongful death lawsuit include:

– Pain the individual suffered before death;

– Loss wages;

– Loss of quality of life;

– Loss of consortium

If your loved one has been a victim of a workplace fatality, it is important to talk to a lawyer about the options you may have. In most cases, it is important to do this quickly to preserve a statute of limitations. If you have questions, or would like to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.