Whether someone works in risky or relatively safe conditions, accidents can always occur that can cause serious injury or death. Sadly, this happened recently in Bensenville when an Illinois truck driver suffered fatal injuries in a loading area as he was preparing to leave. While his family is left to cope with their tragic loss, an investigation has been opened into the deadly work accident.
The 57-year-old man died from injuries he sustained as a result of being pinned between a post and the open door of his truck cab. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The medical examiner reported that the man’s death was accidental and that he suffered multiple injuries.
At the time of the accident, the trucker was performing safety checks on his truck. Federal officials from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are currently investigating to determine if any safety regulations were violated that may have contributed to the fatal accident. The company where the accident occurred is not commenting on the incident due to the ongoing investigation.
In the aftermath of this tragic work accident, the family of the decedent may have mounting expenses due to medical, funeral and burial costs, in addition to lost income. Regardless of the outcome of the investigation, they are likely eligible for workers’ compensation death benefits under Illinois law. However, they may do well to seek legal advice to ensure that they are getting all the benefits to which they are entitled. Any compensation they receive may offer some financial relief, which may be a small comfort in a time of great sorrow.
Source: Chicago Tribune, “Truck driver dies after workplace accident in Bensenville,” Jan. 8, 2013
