If you are injured on the job, you can file a claim for workers' compensation benefits. Most employers throughout the United States are required to have workers' compensation to protect workers in the event of an injury while on the job. Workers' compensation covers the costs of medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and if necessary, vocational training required because of the work-related injury. Workers' compensation offers very precise benefits, and the way a claim is handled and the requirements of the program vary from state to state. What is a Soil Compactor? A soil compactor will help you break down and compact soil, sand, and gravel. The machine will reduce the size of the material by compacting it. It is used in the excavation and construction processes. A tamper might be needed to compress excavation layers that are comprised of clay-based or cohesive soils. Other soils might use vibration methods to achieve the ideal compaction density. If not used properly, the equipment operator can suffer injuries from being caught in the machine or crushed during operation. There are guards on pinch points and moving parts to prevent injuries, so it is imperative to leave those guards in place. The Injuries That Could Be Suffered Serious injuries can result from the use of a soil compactor. The rammers drive a metal foot into the soil in order to properly compact it. The soil compactor will stabilize the soil by compressing, kneading, and vibrating it to increase density and get out any air pockets. Rollers are used to compress soil with their weight and movement. If these rammers or rollers hit a foot, they can break bones or even lead to amputations. Trenches can collapse and cause suffocation or crush bones and cause internal injuries. The following injuries are just some of the ones that could lead to months away from work, or even result in permanent disability: Broken bones Internal injuries Amputations Death A broken bone can result in a couple of months off work or longer. An amputation or serious laceration might require ongoing care and lead to months off work. You might even have to retrain for a different position with your employer. In those situations, workers' compensation might provide vocational retraining services. If you are unable to return to any line of work, your attorney can handle your claim and ensure you get the maximum benefits until approved for disability benefits. Consult with a Workers' Compensation Attorney If you have been injured by a soil compactor while working, you should consult with a workers' compensation attorney. An attorney will know which benefits you are entitled to receive. Your lawyer will then file a claim on your behalf and fight to ensure you get the benefits that you deserve. Your attorney can also file any necessary appeals and fight for your claim. Schedule a free case evaluation today so you can get on track with your claim for workers' compensation benefits after suffering an injury caused by the operation of a soil compactor.
