What’s the Problem?
Backhoes are useful for digging holes and clearing dirt and debris from construction sites; however, many workers have been seriously injured and even killed when they are:
- Caught in the way of a backhoe
- Run over by the machine
- Pushed by the shovel
- Trapped underneath the backhoe
- Struck by the bucket or the load of the bucket
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), there were 346 deaths linked to backhoe and excavator accidents from 1992 to 2002. That’s an average of 34 deaths per year.
Texas Woman Killed in Backhoe Accident
A backhoe operator in San Antonio, Texas, was unaware that there was someone standing at the bottom of a 15-foot hole, when he dropped material into the hole and killed the woman. The victim’s family reported that the woman was at the bottom of the hole with her brother, who worked on the site. The accident occurred after the victim’s brother climbed out of the hole to move to another pipe. OSHA had cited the construction company working at the accident site at least twice for violations, including a safety violation and a sewer line violation.
How To Avoid Backhoe Injuries
Safety precautions that individuals can follow to avoid being injured or killed in a backhoe accident include:
- Avoiding Dangers – Backhoes are at risk of becoming entangled in trees or power lines, which means that workers should always survey their surroundings before operating the machines.
- Creating a Safety Zone – Never operate equipment when individuals are in a working zone because the backhoe can move unexpectedly and strike workers.
- Inspecting the Machinery – Before operating a backhoe, workers should inspect all elements of the machinery. Keeping the equipment well maintained can maximize the backhoe’s performance and minimize the risk of injuries.
- Wearing a Seat Belt – Backhoe operators should always wear seat belts because the individual is at risk of falling out of the machine if not properly secured.
Do I Have a Backhoe Accident Class Action Lawsuit?
The Class Action Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Backhoe Accident Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one was injured by a backhoe, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.