Thousands of workers are injured every year on the job. Construction workers are much more likely to be injured because they are in a dangerous environment and work around a lot of heavy equipment and machinery. One piece of light construction equipment called the power trowel can lead to injuries as well. States set their own laws regarding workers' compensation, but most businesses are required to maintain the special insurance coverage for their workers. Workers' comp offers medical benefits and covers part of the lost wages resulting from the work-related injury. What is a Power Trowel? A power trowel is a piece of light construction equipment that applies a smooth finish to concrete slabs. The machine is sometimes known as a whirlybird or a trowel machine. It is used by contractors and construction companies for a variety of projects that involve concrete. There are two main kinds of power trowels. One is a walk-behind machine that has an operator that walks behind the machine. The other is a ride-on machine that has an operator sitting on a seat made on top of the machine where he or she controls the machine using all the necessary buttons and levers. Injuries Suffered When Operating a Power Trowel Accidents can occur when using a power trowel. Power trowels can lead to serious injuries. The operator must be properly trained to handle the machine. As an example, if a power trowel is poorly placed it can lead to death. One worker was killed when a trowel blade that applies the finish to curing concrete got caught on an electrical conduit near the concrete slab. The torque from the motor jerked the handle from the operator's hands and went crazy spinning out of control striking the operator and another worker. Here are a few injuries that can result from a power trowel incident: Herniated discs and back injuries Paralysis Spinal cord injuries Traumatic brain injuries Amputations Broken bones Electrocution Death Any of these injuries can result in extensive medical bills. You will require a lot of time away from work, so you will suffer financially. Workers' compensation should be able to offer you help during this difficult time by covering medical expenses and helping you cover a portion of your lost wages. Consult With a Workers' Compensation Attorney If you have been hurt on the job when using a power trowel, you should consult with a workers' compensation attorney. A workers' compensation attorney can file your claim and work with the insurance company to ensure you get the maximum benefits to which you are entitled. Sometimes claims are denied and a lawyer can appeal that and help you get your benefits started. It can be challenging to deal with a workers' compensation claim, so make sure you have legal experience on your side. Schedule a free case evaluation with a workers' compensation attorney today so you can get on track with your workers' comp claim.
