Electrical Accidents on Farms: Know Your Rights to Compensation

Farming is one of the most hazardous occupations in the United States. Each year, dozens of agricultural workers are electrocuted, highlighting the critical need for electrical safety awareness and preventative measures on farms. If you or a loved one has been involved in an electrical accident on a farm, understanding your rights to compensation is essential.

The Shocking Truth: Electrical Hazards on Farms

Electricity is essential for modern farming operations, powering everything from irrigation systems to grain dryers and livestock management equipment. However, this reliance on electricity also introduces significant hazards. According to the National Ag Safety Database, approximately 62 farm workers in the United States are electrocuted annually. Electrocution is quick and deadly and is one of the most overlooked hazards of farm work.

Several factors contribute to the high risk of electrical accidents on farms:

Overhead Power Lines: Contact with overhead power lines is a leading cause of electrical fatalities for agricultural workers. Large equipment, such as combines, augers, and tractors with front-end loaders, can easily come into contact with these lines, which are often uninsulated.
Underground Power Lines: Digging and excavation work can damage underground power lines, leading to electrocution. It is crucial to call 811 before digging to locate and mark underground utilities.
Faulty Wiring and Equipment: Damaged or poorly maintained electrical wiring, tools, and machinery can cause electrical shocks and fires. The damp and dusty environments common on farms can accelerate the deterioration of electrical components.
Lack of Training: Insufficient training on electrical safety procedures can increase the risk of accidents. Workers need to be aware of potential hazards and know how to respond in an emergency.

Common Causes of Electrical Accidents

Understanding the common causes of electrical accidents can help prevent them. Some of the most frequent scenarios include:

Contact with Overhead Power Lines: As mentioned earlier, this is a leading cause of electrocutions. Wind, uneven ground, or shifting weight can cause operators to lose control of equipment and make contact with power lines.
Damaged Extension Cords and Wiring: Harsh weather conditions, dust, and animal interference can wear down cords and wiring. Exposed wires, loose connections, and fraying pose a serious electrocution risk.
Improper Use of Equipment: Using electrical equipment in wet or damp locations without proper grounding can lead to shocks. Overloading circuits and using “quick fixes” for wiring issues also increase the risk of accidents.
Stray Voltage: Stray voltage, also known as “tingling electricity,” can occur when electrical current leaks from wiring or equipment and travels through the ground or metal structures. This can cause discomfort or even injury to livestock and humans.

Your Rights to Compensation After an Electrical Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in an electrical accident on a farm, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. The specific legal options available will depend on the circumstances of the accident, including your employment status and the cause of the injury.

Workers’ Compensation: If you are an employee of the farm, you are likely eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation provides medical benefits, wage replacement, and other benefits to employees injured on the job, regardless of fault. In the tragic event of a fatality, the worker’s family may be entitled to death benefits, including funeral and burial costs and a portion of the deceased’s average weekly wage.
Personal Injury Claims: In some cases, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against a negligent third party. This could include:
- The farm owner or operator: If the accident was caused by the negligence of the farm owner or operator, such as failure to maintain safe working conditions or provide adequate training, you may be able to sue them for damages.
- Equipment manufacturers: If the accident was caused by a defective product, such as faulty wiring or a design flaw, you may be able to file a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
- Utility companies: If the accident was caused by the negligence of a utility company, such as failure to properly maintain power lines or respond to reports of downed wires, you may be able to sue them for damages.
- Electrical contractors: Negligent electrical contractors may be held liable for injuries (Death by electrocution at work)
Wrongful Death Claims: If a loved one has died as a result of an electrical accident on a farm, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim to recover damages for your losses, including funeral expenses, loss of income, and loss of companionship.

Types of Compensation Available

The compensation you may be able to recover after an electrical accident on a farm can include:

Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and the cost of any necessary medical equipment.
Lost Wages: You may be able to recover lost wages for the time you have been unable to work due to your injuries, as well as compensation for any future lost earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: You may be able to recover damages for the physical pain and emotional suffering you have experienced as a result of the accident.
Property Damage: If any of your property was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the cost of repairing or replacing it.
Funeral and Burial Expenses: In the event of a fatality, you may be able to recover funeral and burial expenses.

Steps to Take After an Electrical Accident

If you have been involved in an electrical accident on a farm, it is important to take the following steps to protect your rights:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor. Some electrical injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Report the Accident: Report the accident to your employer and any relevant authorities, such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
Document the Scene: If possible, take photos and videos of the accident scene, including any damaged equipment or wiring.
Gather Information: Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
Consult an Attorney: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in farm accidents and electrical injuries. An attorney can advise you on your legal rights and options and help you navigate the claims process.

Prevention is Key: Electrical Safety Tips for Farms

While understanding your rights to compensation is important, preventing electrical accidents in the first place is even more critical. Here are some essential electrical safety tips for farms:

Regular Inspections: Schedule regular electrical inspections by a qualified electrician to identify and address potential hazards. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 make electrical safety inspections mandatory for most farm buildings.
Maintain Equipment: Regularly inspect and maintain all electrical equipment, wiring, and extension cords. Replace any damaged or worn components immediately.
Be Aware of Power Lines: Know the location of all overhead and underground power lines on your property. Maintain a safe distance of at least 10 feet from power lines when operating equipment.
Call Before You Dig: Always call 811 before digging to locate and mark underground utilities.
Use GFCI Protection: Install and regularly test Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in wet or damp locations to prevent electrical shocks.
Provide Training: Ensure that all workers receive adequate training on electrical safety procedures.
Emergency Procedures: Establish clear emergency procedures in case of an electrical accident. Make sure everyone knows how to disconnect the power and what to do if someone comes into contact with a power line.
Use qualified electricians: Only qualified electricians should perform Electrical repairs and upgrades.

Conclusion

Electrical accidents on farms can have devastating consequences, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. By understanding the risks, taking preventative measures, and knowing your rights to compensation, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from these hazards. If you or someone you know has been involved in an electrical accident on a farm, it is essential to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.