Indiana Injury Lawyer Blog

The Indianapolis Workers Compensation Attorneys at Kooi Law have learned an Indiana company is facing a $3600 fine due to a work-related injury that resulted in an employee dying. The fine was levied by the Indiana Department of Labor against Tiller Sanitation. The deadly incident happened on Labor Day of last year. Workplace injuries and deaths are often connected to Indiana Work Comp issues.

As for this workplace death, it apparently happened when two males, 17 year old Stephen Tiller and 19 year old Michael Scott fell off the front of a garbage truck that loaded from the front side. Tiller ended up under the vehicle and died. Scott was thrown to the side and was injured. Delaware County's coroner said the two should not have been on the front of the vehicle.

Tiller Sanitation was fined $1500 for not reporting a worker's fatality to the nearest United States Department of Labor's OSHA office. The company was fined an additional $2100 for not giving its workers an operating manual for the truck and not teaching them how to properly adhere to the operating manual. That booklet details how sanitation employees are not to ride outside the truck on a ledge that's in the front part of the vehicle.

In Indiana and in states throughout the country, employers have specific Work Comp rules and laws to follow to help ensure worker safety. Recording work-related deaths and injuries can help Indiana's Department of Labor make the workplace safer by identifying problem areas.

The Indiana Worker's Compensation Lawyers are very familiar with the specific steps an injured worker should take immediately following the incident. Sticking to these steps can greatly help an injured employee receive the Work Comp benefits he or she deserves. Plus, these steps should be taken no matter how small you might think your injury is. First, you should immediately report your injury to your supervisor or manager and ask them to complete a formal accident report. You should receive a copy of this report from your supervisor or employer. If you require formal medical attention, you should follow all directions of the provider and your employer. That includes going to all appointments and examinations scheduled and following all restrictions. If you will need to miss more than 7 days of work due to your workplace injury, you should contact an attorney for a consultation concerning your temporary total disability rights.

Continue reading "INDIANA COMPANY FINED AFTER WORK-RELATED INJURY RESULTING IN DEATH" »

The Indiana Semi Truck Accident Lawyers at Kooi Law can report a Tractor Trailer Driver died in a Vehicle Accident just after midnight Thursday. Indiana State Police say the Truck Crash happened on United States Interstate 65 near Downtown Indianapolis. The truck driver is identified as 30 year old Sukhinder Dhuga from Ontario. His passenger did suffer injuries. Indiana Workers Compensation issues could be involved.

Indiana State Police say the semi truck driver might have fallen asleep while driving; thus, causing the crash. Dhuga apparently went off the right side of the highway, struck a guardrail and flipped. Indiana police say he was stuck under the semi while his passenger was thrown from the vehicle. Medics took both victims to a local Indianapolis hospital. Dhuga died there while his passenger's status is not known at last check by Indianapolis Vehicle Crash Attorneys.

As mentioned earlier, Indiana Work Comp issues might be involved in this case. Workers Compensation is defined as the body of laws that pertains to an injury a worker suffers while in the course and scope of employment. In other words, it's an injury a person suffers while on the job. Each state has its own specific laws to cover Workers Compensation. And the experienced attorneys at Kooi Law are well-versed on Indiana's and Illinois's Work Comp laws and can help answer your questions if you believe you are suffering from a work-related injury.

Semi Truck Drivers are frequently victims of Work Comp injuries due to vehicle crashes. According to Truckinginfo.net, the United States Department of Transportation estimates there are more than 500,000 trucking accidents every year. The website further explains more than 75% of truck driving crashes are because of an error by the driver of the passenger vehicle. Only 16% of all truck driving crashes are due to the truck driver’s fault.

No matter who is to blame, injuries can be severe in a semi truck accident. Statistics show about 5,000 people are killed in truck crashes every year. And unfortunately, about 98% of the time, the drivers of the other vehicle are killed in a truck crash.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK DRIVER DIES IN TRACTOR TRAILER CRASH IN INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA" »

Four workers were hurt in a Workplace Construction Accident in Goshen, Indiana on Monday. The Indianapolis Work Comp Lawyers learned the employees were apparently injured when an ammonia tank exploded. The four injured employees worked at T&T Fertilizer and Southwest Welding. One of the injured, a 24 year old man, was taken to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, Indiana with an apparent head injury. A captain with the Elkhart County Sheriff's Department says the other three injured men are ages 16, 56 and 61. They were transported to a local Northern Indiana hospital. Workers who are hurt while in the course and scope of employment are entitled to Indiana Worker's Compensation benefits in most cases.

In this case, Indiana investigators say the Workplace Accident happened when employees welding a tank at a fertilizer plant set off an explosion which not only hurt the four workers but also spilled 2,000 gallons of ammonia into the plant. A dike system at T&T Fertilizer reportedly contained the ammonia. And a haz-mat team helped clean up the area.

Work-related injuries happen all too often in Indiana and throughout the country. Fortunately, the workplace in Indiana appears to be getting safer. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2009, the amount of non-deadly occupational injuries and illnesses was 94,800. This is the lowest number of non-fatal injuries and illnesses on record for Indiana. It also shows a drop of 17,300 such injuries and illnesses compared to the previous year.

When Indiana researchers examined the rate of non-deadly occupational injuries and illnesses, they found a downward trend. In 2009, the rate in Indiana was 4.3 per 100 employees. That rate was 12% lower than the rate in 2008 and was the biggest percent drop in a one year time frame on record. While this is encouraging news, Indiana's non-deadly injury and illness rate is still higher than the national total recordable rate of 3.9.

And even one injured worker can effect many people. The experienced Indianapolis Work Comp Attorneys at Kooi Law realize how devastating the effects of a workplace injury can be. Children and other dependents could be counting on that injured worker's salary to provide food, pay the rent or mortgage, and pay the bills. If that injured employee has to miss work because of his or her injury, a huge financial hardship could be placed on the family. However, Indiana Work Comp benefits can help alleviate this situation.

Continue reading "WORKERS HURT ON THE JOB IN EXPLOSION AT FERTILIZER PLANT IN NORTHERN INDIANA" »

The Indianapolis Semi Truck Accident Lawyers can report a Tractor Trailer Crash Monday morning. Indiana Work Comp issues are often involved when a truck driver is injured in an Auto Accident. However, there is still no word on the condition of the truck driver in this crash. Monday's truck crash happened on United States Interstate 865.

Officials with the Indiana Department of Transportation say the Semi Truck was heading on the northbound ramp to United States Interstate 465 to westbound United States Interstate 865 when the driver lost control and collided with the southbound United States Interstate 465 overpass. INDOT workers were examining the bridge to see if it suffered any damage in the Truck Crash. No word yet if the driver of the truck was hurt in the accident. The Tractor Trailer was transporting boxes for Hardee's.

Semi Trucks play a key role in Indiana's economy and in our nation's economy as a whole. Some estimates put the number of tractor trailers in our country at 2 million with more than 3 million truck drivers. While Semi Trucks do pose a risk on the road simply because of their size, some statistics might surprise you. The website, www.truckinfo.net, found that commercial trucks are involved in 2.4% of all car crashes. And trucks are 3 times less likely to be in a collision than a regular motor vehicle. When broken down into minutes, one person is apparently hurt or killed in a truck crash every 16 minutes.

Indiana Workers' Compensation Lawyers know many of these Semi Truck Crashes involve Work Comp. Work Comp is often referred to as Worker's Compensation and often comes into play when a worker is injured or killed while on the job. In Indiana, the Indiana Work Comp Act mandates that employers have worker's compensation insurance or a self-insured program. Some jobs are excluded from the Work Comp Act but most do fall under it. The experienced Indiana Work Comp Attorneys at Kooi Law can help injured workers figure out if their injuries are covered under the Act and if so, how much financial compensation they should receive.

Worker's Compensation benefits may still apply even if the injured worker died from his or her injuries. In this unfortunate situation, that worker's spouse and/or children would be entitled to compensation. Those benefits could include funeral and burial expenses in addition to up to 500 weeks of disability payments. In some cases, a non-family member could be deemed a dependent and entitled to compensation. Thus, it is important to contact an Indianapolis Work Comp Attorney in the event of a fatal workplace accident involving a loved one.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK COLLIDES WITH BRIDGE ON INDIANA HIGHWAY" »

A Corunna, Indiana man was seriously hurt in a Tanker Truck Crash in DeKalb County, Indiana. The Truck Accident occurred Wednesday night on Indiana State Road 327. The Indiana Semi Truck Crash Lawyers can report the injured man was the driver of the truck and is 52 year old Kevin Grate. It remains to be seen if Indiana Workers Compensation issues will arise.

Indiana State Police say a cow may be to blame for this Vehicle Collision. Indiana investigators say as Grate drove to the top of a hill, he noticed the cow and tried to not strike it. However, he apparently did strike the cow, and the truck left the roadway and collided with a utility pole. Then, Indiana State Police say the truck rolled over and went into a ditch that was filled with water. Grate suffered multiple injuries including a head injury. He was transported to a local Indiana hospital for treatment.

When someone is hurt while on the job, it is often deemed a "Work Comp injury." Work Comp or Workers' Compensation refers to the set of laws pertaining to a workplace injury and the insurance benefits a worker could be entitled to if he or she is hurt while in the course and scope of employment. In other words, if a worker is injured while on the job, that worker could be entitled to receive Work Comp. Each state has varying Worker's Compensation laws and codes. The experienced Indianapolis Work Comp Attorneys at Kooi Law are extremely familiar with Indiana's Work Comp laws and can guide an injured worker through the legal process -- from reporting the injury to the proper authorities to making sure that worker receives the medical treatment and financial compensation he or she deserves.

Work Comp injuries are not relegated to injuries that happen in a traditional office, store or factory. Often, a vehicle that an employee is in for work purposes can be the "office" where that work related injury occurs. The Indiana Department of Labor examines work related injuries in an effort to improve workplace safety. Officials with the Indiana Department of Labor found that in 2009, the transportation industry (which the Department of Labor couples with the warehousing industry) had the second most workplace deaths with 17. The Construction industry also had 17 work related deaths. Only the Agriculture industry had more workplace fatalities in 2009 with 23.

While even one Work Related Death is one too many, Indiana's workplaces do appear to be getting safer. The Indiana Department of Labor reported that in 2009, the state had the fewest occupational fatalities on record with 123.

Continue reading "CORUNNA, INDIANA MAN HURT IN TANKER TRUCK CRASH IN NORTHERN INDIANA" »

Franklin Township in Marion County, Indiana was the site of a Vehicle Crash with injuries on Monday. A School Bus was also involved in the accident. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the Vehicle Collision happened at Southern Springs Boulevard and East Stop 11 Road. The Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers have not yet heard if the school bus driver was hurt in the auto accident and if so, if any Indiana Work Comp issues are involved.

Indiana investigators say a 17 year old driver was hurt in the Auto Accident. Apparently, a 48 year old man was driving his car on Stop 11 Road when another car, driven by the teenager, pulled in front of his car. This allegedly caused a chain-reaction crash with the 17 year old's car colliding with a school bus. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say no school children were hurt in the accident. However, the 17 year old was hurt and taken to a local Indianapolis hospital for treatment.

Despite Monday's Bus Crash, statistics do show school buses are an extremely safe form of transportation. For example, school buses transport about 24 million students each year and drive more than 4 billion miles in total. When these figures are used to determine the rate of deaths on school buses, the data shows school buses have a rate of 0.2 deaths per 100 million miles traveled. While even one death is one too many, compare the school bus death rate to that of cars, and you find the rate of deaths in automobiles is eight times higher.

Taken another way, from 1994-2004, 71 passengers on school buses died in Vehicle Collisions. In the year 2004 alone, 31,693 people in cars and light trucks died in traffic crashes. Interestingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found more children died by being struck by a school bus than when riding in school buses.

While there is still no word on the condition of the school bus driver, if a worker is hurt while on the job, that worker could be entitled to Worker's Compensation. The Indiana Work Comp Lawyers can help an injured employee determine if he or she is, indeed, entitled to such benefits. Each state has its own Work Comp laws, codes, and procedures. In Indiana, the quicker you can report your injury to your manager or your supervisor, the better. You should do this even if you do not believe your injury is serious or will require professional medical treatment. Your supervisor should then fill out a formal accident report. You should receive a copy of this from your employer. If you need medical attention, you should follow all the directions your health care provider and employer give you.

Continue reading "MARION COUNTY, INDIANA IS SCENE OF SCHOOL BUS ACCIDENT WITH INJURY" »

A Semi Truck Accident in Indianapolis left one man dead and two people injured. The Indiana Tractor Trailer Collision Attorneys at Kooi Law learned the injured were taken to local Indianapolis hospitals. Still no word if Worker's Compensation issues will come into play.

This Semi Truck Crash happened on United States Interstate 465 shortly before midnight Wednesday. It all apparently started when a car got a flat tire and pulled onto the shoulder of I-465. 31 year old Kymari Cobel from Paoli, Indiana was driving the car, and 21 year old Zachary Wright from Cicero, Indiana was a passenger. Cobel began to drive again after the tire was changed but felt something was not right with the new tire so she pulled onto the shoulder again. Indiana State Police say that's when a pickup truck pulled near the car, and the driver offered to help. 32 year old Gregory Lacy from Georgia was a passenger in that pickup truck.

Apparently, all four people from the car and the pickup were walking on the shoulder of the Interstate when Indiana State Police say a big rig swerved onto the right shoulder of Interstate 465 and hit the Good Samaritan's pickup truck, then struck the Good Samaritan and two other people on the shoulder. That as-yet-to-named Good Samaritan was killed. The semi did not hit Cobel. Indiana State Police say the two injured people are Lacey and Wright. The Indiana Truck Accident Lawyers learned the driver of the tractor trailer was identified as 58 year old Paul Morris from Cincinnati, Ohio. Indiana investigators are looking into what exactly caused this deadly vehicle accident.

Workers Compensation issues are involved if a worker is hurt while in the course and scope of employment. At this point, it is not yet clear if any of the injured or the deceased were on the job when this Semi Truck Accident occurred. An experienced Indiana Work Comp Lawyer can help injured workers and their families figure out what medical treatment they need and what compensation they are entitled to.

Unfortunately, large trucks like semis are involved in many fatal Vehicle Accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration took a look at such collisions and found in 2009, large trucks were involved in 308 deadly vehicle crashes with a non-motorist. Researchers also found the majority of fatal Semi Truck accidents involved several vehicles. In 2009, large trucks were in more than 2,600 deadly crashes involving multiple vehicles as opposed to 603 deadly crashes involving simply that single vehicle.

Continue reading "TRACTOR TRAILER ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS LEAVES ONE MAN DEAD AND TWO PEOPLE HURT" »

United States Interstate 70 in Indiana's Marion County was the scene of a Semi Truck Accident Monday morning. The Tractor Trailer Crash happened just west of downtown Indianapolis and included two Semis. The Indiana Truck Accident Lawyers learned a car was also involved in this crash. Fortunately, no one was hurt in the collision. However, Indiana Work Comp issues could have been involved if the semi drivers were hurt while on the job.

Indiana investigators say hydroplaning may be to blame for this Trucking Accident. A driver of one of the semi trucks said it was raining at the time of the accident and his trailer started to hydroplane. The trailer then hit a wall. The driver of a second semi truck was apparently trying to not hit that tractor trailer when it collided with a car.

The Indianapolis Vehicle Collision Attorneys at Kooi Law are experienced in handling auto accidents that stem from hydroplaning. Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle's tires are separated from the road due to water or another liquid forming a layer between the tires and the road. Thus, the tires have little or no traction on the road, and the driver has reduced ability to break or steer effectively. Hydroplaning is often referred to as "aquaplaning."

One of the main causes of hydroplaning is poor road construction. When a road is constructed the proper way, it will have a center at a higher angle than its sides. This makes a "cross slope" which enables water to drain off the road. However, over a period of time and in some cases, because of a paving contractor's or road engineer's negligence or error, some roads do not have the proper cross slope or have no cross slope at all. In these situations, water tends to pool on the road, and hydroplaning can occur and lead to Vehicle Collisions.

Vehicle Collisions are often a cause of Workers Compensation issues. The Indiana Department of Labor examined all sorts of workplace injuries and found in 2009, transportation and warehousing had the second highest number of workplace fatalities with 17. The construction industry also had 17 workplace deaths. Only the agriculture industry had more with 23. There are certain steps an injured worker should take if he or she is hurt while in the course and scope of employment. Each state has its own specific Work Comp laws and codes so an injured worker should check with his or her own state's regulations.

Continue reading "TWO TRACTOR TRAILERS CRASH IN INDIANA'S MARION COUNTY" »

In St. Joseph County, Indiana, the Fatal Alcohol Crash Team is looking into a Truck Crash with multiple injuries. The Indiana Workers' Compensation Attorneys at Kooi Law can report at least three people were hurt in Wednesday's Vehicle Accident. The injured include a firefighter and a police officer. It is not clear what, if any, Indiana Work Comp issues will be involved since the injured workers were on the job when they were hurt.

As for what caused this Truck Accident, it apparently started when a Clay Fire Territory pumper tanker truck was responding to a call in Harris Township. At the same time, Roseland police were going to a different call. For some reason, as both were going through the same intersection, the truck collided with the patrol car and then rolled onto its side. The truck reportedly also struck a passenger car before it flipped. Another police car was apparently involved in this Vehicle Collision as well. Clay fire officials say it seems like the police car struck their truck. Equipment at the intersection does give fire trucks a green traffic signal.

Three people were hurt in this Vehicle Crash. A firefighter, a police officer, and a civilian were all taken to a local Indiana hospital for treatment for their injuries. None of the injuries were considered extremely serious. At last check, the Indiana Truck Accident Lawyers learned the firefighter was released from the hospital. Indiana's general Worker's Compensation statutes do not usually pertain to emergency responders like firefighters and police officers because these jobs are deemed to carry inherent risks. Instead, Indiana has a separate code that specifically details how police officers and firefighters should be treated medically and compensated if they are, indeed, hurt while in the course and scope of their employment. Experienced Indianapolis Work Comp Lawyers can help injured workers navigate the legal process to ensure they receive the proper benefits.

As mentioned in the previous paragraph, the job of firefighter does entail serious risks for workplace injuries. One risk concerns fire truck traffic accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration examined data from Fire Truck Collisions in the years 1994-1996. Officials found in general, about 2,472 fire trucks are involved in police-reported accidents each year in our country. Each year, these crashes caused 6 fatalities to fire truck occupants, 413 fire truck occupant injuries, and a total of 1,076 people were hurt in these collisions including 21 fatalities.

Researchers also looked at the type of injuries suffered in Fire Truck Accidents. They found usually, the most severe injuries happen in the other vehicle involved in the collision. Deadly injuries happened in less than 1% of accidents involving fire trucks. Some type of injury happened in about 24% of fire truck crashes, and property damage happened in about 75% of fire truck accidents.

Continue reading "EMERGENCY RESPONDERS IN INDIANA HURT IN TRUCK CRASH" »

A 17-year old boy is dead following a Garbage Truck Accident in Randolph County, Indiana. Indianapolis Workers Compensation Lawyers learned this apparent On the Job accident happened Labor Day near Parker City, Indiana. However, it is not yet clear if Indiana Work Comp issues will be involved. Delaware County's deputy coroner identified the fatal victim as Stephen Tiller from Greenville, Ohio. He apparently has relatives in Randolph County. Another garbage truck worker was hurt in the accident. He broke his leg and was taken to a local Muncie, Indiana hospital for treatment.

Indiana investigators say the Truck Accident involved a garbage truck that is part of a family business owned by Tiller's relatives. The two victims allegedly were riding on the front of the truck and were thrown off it when the truck hit a tough spot in the roadway. After he was thrown from the truck, Tiller was apparently run over by the garbage truck which killed him. The injured worker was thrown into a ditch. Randolph County police say the victims should not have been riding on the front of the truck, but rather, they should have been on the sides or rear of the vehicle. The person behind the wheel of the truck is thought to be the teen's brother.

Additionally, Indiana investigators say the fatal victim was doing job-related tasks when the tragic truck accident happened. When people are hurt or killed while doing job-related duties, Indiana Workers' Compensation might come into play. Work Comp refers to the body of law and insurance that covers injuries workers suffer while in the course and scope of employment. The experienced and honest Indiana Work Comp Lawyers at Kooi Law can help you decide if in fact, your injury is work-related and if so, what type of treatment and compensation you and/or your family deserve. It is important to note that work comp injuries do include deadly ones, and the injuries are not limited to ones that happen in an office, factory or other structural place of employment. Instead, Workers Compensation injuries often include those that happen in vehicles if the injured worker in that vehicle sustains that injury while on the job.

In fact, the Indiana Department of Labor found transportation is often tied to Work Comp injuries and deaths. The Department recently released its annual Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries report for last year. The data showed 115 people died from deadly occupational injuries in Indiana in 2010. And of those 115 work-related fatalities, 54 involved transportation incidents.

Continue reading "TEEN DIES IN GARBAGE TRUCK ACCIDENT IN PARKER CITY, INDIANA" »

Deadly Workers Compensation injuries appear to be decreasing for Indiana workers. Indiana's Department of Labor announced that in 2010, Indiana had the fewest Workplace Fatalities since 1991 with 115 workers dying while in the course and scope of employment. That was a drop of 8 from 2009. The United States government began keeping count of workplace deaths in 1991. Indianapolis Workers Compensation Lawyers can assist families who've had a loved one die while on the job. In many cases, families of a fatality injured worker are entitled to Work Comp benefits. Unfortunately, more than a hundred families find themselves in such a situation each year.

Indiana's Department of Labor also examined the fields in which fatal Work Comp injuries occur. Data showed the industries with the highest death rates were agriculture and then construction and transportation and then manufacturing. The Department combined transportation and warehousing in its research. Additionally, when all fields of business were grouped together, the leading cause of workplace fatalities in Indiana was connected to transportation. 54 people died from transportation related injuries in 2010.

Other Workplace Deaths came from equipment, falls, violent instances, and fires and explosions. 19 employees died from some sort of contact with objects and equipment while 17 workers died from falling.

While the Indiana Department of Labor and many Hoosier employers strive to make the workplace safe, injuries do occur. And Indiana has specific laws and codes centered on Worker's Compensation injuries. Experienced and honest Indianapolis Work Comp Lawyers are extremely knowledgeable when it comes to Indiana Work Comp and can help injured workers and/or their families receive the care and compensation they deserve.

For instance, there are certain steps an injured worker should take as soon as possible to ensure the proper Workers Compensation. Even if a hurt worker doesn't think his injury is serious or will require medical care, he should immediately tell his supervisor about it and ask them to complete a formal accident report. The worker should then receive a copy of this report. After a worker is hurt while on the job and does need medical care, that worker should adhere to all directions his medical care provider gives as well as directions from his employer. If a worker sustains an injury that will require him to miss more than 7 days of work, he should consult with an Indiana Work Comp Attorney to discuss what is known as "temporary total disability rights" or "TTD rights."

Continue reading "INDIANA SEES LOWEST NUMBER OF WORKPLACE DEATHS IN 2010" »

A Construction Zone on Indiana's Interstate 70 was the scene of a deadly Semi Truck Accident. The fatal truck crash involved two semi trucks. It happened Wednesday afternoon near Indiana's Putnam and Clay County line. The identity of the tractor trailer driver who died has not yet been released, but the victim was from Ohio. It is not yet confirmed if Work Comp issues are involved. Indianapolis Workers Compensation Lawyers can help auto accident victims and/or their families determine if they are entitled to Work Comp benefits. As for the driver of the other semi, 57 year old Kundan Randwaha is from Canada and was not hurt in the Vehicle Collision.

Indiana State Police say the Big Rig Crash happened as traffic was heading through a one lane construction zone and then came to a halt. Randwaha's truck was, thus, not moving when it was struck in the rear by the Ohio driver's semi truck. That truck also collided with a guardrail. As a result of the crash, the Ohio man's cab went up in flames. And that wasn't the only fire stemming from the collision. Later, some debris from the accident that was being transported away from the scene caught fire in another truck. That truck was on Indiana State Road 243 at the time.

Marion County authorities will perform an autopsy on the Ohio victim. Indiana State Police are looking into what caused this fatal Truck Crash. So far, the tractor trailers do not appear to have had any mechanical problems.

As mentioned earlier, Indiana Work Comp Lawyers can help accident victims and/or their families figure out if they should receive Workers Compensation benefits. The basic definition of Work Comp refers to an injury a worker receives while in the course and scope of employment. Worker's Compensation injuries do extend to fatal ones. Each state has its own specific Work Comp laws and codes and insurances rates that employers pay so they can provide Workers Compensation benefits in the event one of their workers suffers an injury while on the job.

Not surprisingly, Semi Truck drivers are often covered under Work Comp because those benefits do not simply apply to when a worker in an office or warehouse is injured. Driving a truck can be considered in the "course and scope of employment."

In this recent Semi Truck Accident, a construction/work zone was involved. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration looked at large truck crashes in construction/maintenance zones and found that about 3% of them cause injuries and more than 4% of them are deadly.

Continue reading "TRUCK DRIVER KILLED IN SEMI TRUCK CRASH ON INDIANA'S INTERSTATE 70" »

A truck driver is dead following a Semi Truck Accident in Indiana's Boone County on Thursday. Three big rigs were involved in the Vehicle Collision on United States Interstate 65. Workers' Compensation issues are not yet confirmed, but truck drivers could be entitled to Indiana Work Comp benefits if they are hurt while in the course and scope of employment. Experienced Indianapolis Worker's Compensation Lawyers can help injured Semi Truck Drivers determine if they should receive Work Comp benefits and how much they should receive.

In this recent Tractor Trailer Crash, Indiana State Police say the driver of a semi truck drove into the rear of two other semi trucks that were in a construction zone. One of the big rigs was hauling two trailers. One of those trailers had petroleum products in it, and the other trailer had paint products in it. Thus, that truck went up in flames as a result of the vehicle crash. The truck that initially collided with it became stuck inside that trailer and that semi's driver died.

This part of United States Interstate 65 is all too familiar with deadly Semi Truck Accidents. Less than 2 months ago, a truck driver died as a result of a similar semi crash. And in January of this year, a truck driver was hurt when he collided with the rear of another Semi Truck close to the spot where this week's deadly truck crash happened. Now, Indiana State Police are looking into why this part of United States Interstate 65 is the site of so many deadly Semi Truck Crashes.

Semi Trucks themselves are often involved in deadly vehicle crashes no matter what highway they find themselves. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that across the country, large trucks were in 3,215 deadly vehicle crashes in 2009. That accounted for about 7% of all the fatal vehicle accidents that year. However, in Indiana, large trucks were involved in a larger percentage of all the deadly vehicle collisions with 10.9% of Indiana's fatal vehicle collisions involving large trucks.

Not surprisingly, the Indiana drivers of Semi Trucks often find themselves needing Work Comp benefits. Worker's Compensation is a term that refers to an injury or death a worker sustains while in the course and scope of employment. Each state has its own Work Comp codes and laws. Thus, it's important for injured employees to seek out an honest and hard-working Indiana Work Comp Lawyer to ensure the proper steps are taken to ensure the injured workers receive the medical care and Workers Compensation benefits they deserve.

Continue reading "THREE SEMI TRUCKS CRASH IN INDIANA'S BOONE COUNTY LEAVING ONE DRIVER DEAD" »

A 47-year old man from Delphi, Indiana is dead following a Tanker Truck Crash in Indianapolis. Deadly accidents can unleash many legal challenges for the victims' families, and the Indiana Truck Accident Lawyers at Kooi Law are experienced in helping victims' families receive the benefits they deserve.

In this recent truck crash, the tanker was carrying gasoline, and it was the truck's driver, Shawn Sullivan, who was killed. If he was, indeed, on the job when the truck collision occurred, his family and/or dependents could be entitled to Workers Compensation benefits. However, it is not yet clear if Work Comp issues are involved.

As for how this Vehicle Accident happened, Indiana investigators say Sullivan's truck veered off the right side of the Crawfordsville Road ramp as the truck was heading to United States Interstate 465. The truck then hit concrete barriers in a construction zone and flipped. The impact of the crash caused thousands of gallons of gasoline to spill out of the truck.

Additionally, officials with the Indiana Department of Transportation say the asphalt near the ramp was damaged in the Tanker Truck Accident. Thus, the Crawfordsville ramp was still closed at last check as crews work to clean up the spill and figure out how to move traffic away from the affected asphalt.

Gasoline is, obviously, considered a hazardous material, and according to the United States Department of Transportation, each day, more than 800,000 shipments of hazardous materials in trucks are made. Unfortunately, about 200 hazmat trucks each year find themselves in deadly collisions, and 5,000 are involved in non-deadly accidents. Because of the dangers associated with carrying hazardous materials, the drivers of these trucks face a high risk of injury and death if they crash.

Thus, truck drivers carrying hazardous materials should be aware of their employer's Workers' Compensation benefits. Work Comp refers to the insurance an employer or company carries to care for a worker if that employee is hurt while on the job. The laws and benefits surrounding Workers Compensation vary by state, but the Worker's Compensation Lawyers at Kooi Law are well-versed in the Indiana and Illinois Work Comp laws and codes.

And, it is important to note, that in the event that the worker is killed while in the course and scope of employment, that worker's family may very well be entitled to certain Work Comp benefits. However, an injured worker or the family of a deceased worker must take specific actions to ensure they receive proper care and the benefits they deserve.

Continue reading "DELPHI, INDIANA MAN DEAD AFTER TANKER TRUCK CRASHES IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

One person is dead following a Semi Truck Accident in Mooresville, Indiana. Workers Compensation issues could be involved, and Indiana Worker's Compensation Lawyers can help injured or deceased victims and their families with these often complex situations. In this case, three vehicles were involved in the accident. The vehicle collision occurred near Indiana State Road 267 and Indiana Street on Monday.

As for what happened, Mooresville police say the tractor trailer hit a pickup truck, and then the pickup truck collided with another vehicle. The semi truck was transporting mail at the time of the Vehicle Crash. The driver of the pickup truck was killed in the vehicle accident.

Pickup trucks fall into the "light truck" category when looking at vehicle crash statistics, and light trucks are involved in thousands of deadly accidents every year in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found light trucks were involved in 17,02 fatal vehicle collisions in 2009 making up 39.4% of all deadly vehicle crashes. In that category, both standard and compact pickup trucks accounted for more than 8,000 fatal vehicle accidents which is more than 18% of all deadly crashes.

So why are pickup trucks involved in so many crashes with deadly consequences? Indianapolis Truck Accident Lawyers and safety experts took a look at recent studies and found that research shows the high fatality rate is often tied to seatbelt use or lack thereof. One study found only 69% of people in pickup trucks wore safety belts in June of 2003 while 81% of people in passenger cars and 83% of people in SUVs and vans were wearing safety belts.

Another legal issue that could come into play is Workers' Compensation which is often referred to as "Work Comp." Worker's Compensation varies by state. In general, it is the insurance and laws concerning an injury a worker suffers while in the course and scope of employment. It also takes into account a worker who dies while on the job. When an employee suffers a workplace injury, immediate and specific actions are often required to ensure Work Comp benefits. An Indiana Workers Compensation Lawyer is very familiar with what needs to be done and can guide injured workers and their families through the process.

In Indiana, workers suffer thousands of injuries each year. Often, those injuries are fatal. The Indiana Department of Labor reported 123 workers were killed while on the job in 2009 in the Hoosier state. As for injuries and illnesses, 94,800 of those were reported among Indiana workers in 2009. That represented the lowest occupational injury and illness rate on record in Indiana.

Continue reading "TWO TRUCKS INCLUDING A SEMI CRASH IN INDIANA, KILLING ONE" »

Southern Indiana was the site of a deadly Semi Truck Accident early Wednesday morning. The fatal Auto Collision happened on United States Interstate 64 in Crawford County, Indiana. 51 year old James Loper was killed and 36-year old Eddie Goodine was hurt. Vehicle highway accidents often lead to Workers Compensation issues which we'll examine in a moment.

In this recent highway vehicle accident, Indiana State Police report the victims were in a Fedex Semi Truck that veered off the highway and hit an overpass. It is not yet clear which victim was driving the vehicle. No other vehicles were involved in the fatal accident. Goodine is apparently in stable condition at a local Kentucky hospital.

As mentioned earlier, auto accidents on highways can result in Worker's Compensation benefits. The driver or passenger, of course, must have been hurt or killed in the collision and on the job when the crash happened. The Indiana Department of Labor found that in 2009, 25 Indiana workers were killed because of a highway crash. That made highway vehicle crashes the leading cause of death in the workplace.

Continue reading "ONE MAN IS KILLED AND ANOTHER HURT IN SOUTHERN INDIANA SEMI TRUCK CRASH" »

The Indiana Department of Labor is looking into an On the Job death. 50-year old Charles Hulse died last week while working at CE Systems Inc. in Columbus. He collapsed while working at a foundry. It is not yet known if Hulse's death will bring Workers Compensation issues into play, but Work Comp does benefit many workers and their families in the event of an on the job injury or death.

Indianapolis's Wish TV reports in the article, "Coroner: Columbus Worker Died from Heat," that the Bartholomew County Chief Deputy coroner says Hulse died from a heart attack made worse by the intense heat. That day, the heat index was well above 100 degrees. Hulse was apparently feeling overheated and had taken a break in a cool area before working again.

Extreme heat can lead to workplace injuries and illnesses in Indiana and throughout the country especially considering the recent heat wave most of the United States has been experiencing. And workplace injuries and illnesses are often covered by each state's Workers' Compensation laws and codes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention examined heat-related deaths in workers and found that from 1992-2006, 423 workers in agricultural and nonagricultural businesses apparently died from exposure to environmental heat.

There are steps employers can take to try to protect workers from heat stress or heat stroke. The CDC recommends employers schedule hot jobs for a more cooler part of the day, provide cool water to workers, give rest periods, and educate workers about the signs of heat stress.

Continue reading "SOUTHERN INDIANA MAN DIES WHILE ON THE JOB IN COLUMBUS" »

An Auto Accident in Indiana's Allen County left two people dead. The deadly crash involved a bus and happened Saturday night near New Haven, Indiana. Several people were hurt as well. It is not clear if the bus driver was injured and if so, if the injuries bring Workers Compensation issues into play.

As for how the accident happened, Indiana investigators say the car was heading south on Indiana 101 when it failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a tour bus. Each vehicle reportedly had two passengers. The passengers in the car were killed while the people in the bus were only slightly hurt.

Indiana investigators are looking into the cause of the deadly auto accident. Some witnesses say the car was speeding. Whether a driver is speeding or texting or simply not paying attention, an auto accident can occur, and there are numerous ways a driver can be at fault. The website, www.statisticstop10.com, reports that the National Safety Council found about 77% of vehicle collisions are because of driver error.

Continue reading "CAR CRASH IN INDIANA'S ALLEN COUNTY CLAIMS TWO LIVES" »

A deadly Semi Truck Accident in Wayne County, Indiana closed United States Interstate 70 for a few hours Friday evening. The victim in the Auto Collision was identified as 56-year old Danny L. Orr from Indianapolis.

Local Indiana media outlets report the victim's van struck the rear of a semi truck which had decreased its speed due to an earlier vehicle accident. A military convoy was part of that earlier vehicle crash. It is not clear if any of the injuries in the two accidents are Workers Compensation related.

As mentioned earlier, the fatal accident occurred when the victim's van rear-ended the tractor trailer. That point of impact is the second most frequent in deadly crashes involving large trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found in 2009, 514 fatal accidents involving large trucks and another motor vehicle had the rear as the initial point of impact. That accounted for 16% of all such crashes.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK CRASH ON INDIANA HIGHWAY KILLS INDIANAPOLIS MAN" »

A Semi Truck Accident left two people with injuries. The Vehicle Crash happened in Indiana's St. Joseph County on the Indiana Toll Road. Two men were hurt, but it is not yet clear if their injuries are Workers' Compensation related.

Indiana's South Bend Tribune reports the semi truck driver fell asleep so the truck veered across the median and hit a ditch on the other side of the road. The injured men were said to suffer from neck and back injuries.

This tractor trailer accident occurred at about 4:30am on Wednesday, and fatigue is believed to be a cause of the crash. Driver fatigue is a big problem on America's roads especially when it comes to the drivers of large trucks like semis. The website, smartmotorist.com, notes a study that found 52% of 107 single vehicle crashes involving heavy trucks were related to fatigue. And more data concerning vehicle collisions on two of our country's busiest roads shows about 50% of the deadly accidents on those roads were connected to driver fatigue.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT IN INDIANA'S ST. JOSEPH COUNTY INJURES TWO PEOPLE" »

A dump truck driver was hurt in a Truck Accident in Marion County, Indiana. The Vehicle Crash happened Tuesday night on United States Interstate 70. It is not yet clear if the driver was on the job and thus, if Workers Compensation issues are involved.

Indianapolis media outlets report Indiana State Police say the truck was heading west in a construction zone when it struck the Cumberland Road overpass. The collision caused the dump bed to come apart from the truck. The truck driver was hurt in the accident and taken to Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital for treatment. Officials are now looking into the overpass to see if it suffered any structural damage in the truck crash.

Fortunately, no construction workers were hurt or killed in the road construction zone accident. However, construction zones are extremely dangerous places. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that from 1995-2002, 844 workers died while on the job at a road construction zone. Those fatalities accounted for 9% of all fatalities in construction, and more than half of them were due to a worker being hit by a vehicle or mobile equipment.

Continue reading "DUMP TRUCK ACCIDENT IN MARION COUNTY, INDIANA LEAVES TRUCK DRIVER HURT" »

An Indiana police officer died while On The Job Monday afternoon. 34-year old Brent Long was an officer with the Terre Haute Police Department. He was shot to death while serving a warrant. Workers Compensation issues pertain to on the job deaths but differ when a police officer is the worker who is hurt or killed.

According to Indiana media reports, Long was among several officers who were serving the warrant when someone inside the home started shooting. Long was struck with a bullet and later died at a local Terre Haute, Indiana hospital. The suspect was shot and killed as well.

As mentioned earlier, Workers' Compensation does come into play when someone dies in a work related incident. However, some jobs with intrinsic risks like police officer and firefighter have their own unique Work Comp laws and codes. In Indiana, Code 36-8-4-5 details the benefits and treatment firefighters and police officers should receive if they are hurt or killed while on the job.

Continue reading "TERRE HAUTE POLICE OFFICER DIES WHILE ON THE JOB IN INDIANA" »

An Indianapolis man died while Working on a Car in Marion County, Indiana. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the accident happened on Indianapolis's southwest side Saturday night. It is not yet known if this accident will fall under Worker's Compensation laws and codes.

Indiana media outlets report 43-year old Kirk Key was working on a car underneath it when the equipment that was holding it up malfunctioned. Indiana investigators say the car then fell on top of Key and killed him. Indianapolis police found Key under the vehicle. The victim apparently fixed vehicles in the place where the accident occurred but worked by himself on Saturdays.

Workers Compensation applies to injuries and deaths that occur while an employee is in the course and scope of employment. In other words, the benefits pertain to a worker that is hurt or killed while on the job. Work Comp laws and codes differ depending on the state where the company is located. In Indiana, the Worker's Compensation Act details how work injuries should be handled. Should a disagreement arise between the injured worker and his employer, the Worker's Compensation Board of Indiana can step in to help resolve it.

Unfortunately, auto mechanics are often hurt or killed while working and thus, often face Workers Compensation issues. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics found the job of a mechanic is one of the most dangerous. For example, from 2003 to 2005, 147 mechanics died while working. Their death rate was 5.3 per 100,000 employed in 2005. That was more than the rate of 4.0 per 100,000 employed for all occupations combined. Also, research shows that among all jobs, mechanics ranked 14th in the amount of injuries and illnesses involving days of work missed in 2005.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS MAN DIES WHILE WORKING ON CAR IN MARION COUNTY, INDIANA" »

We have new information on a Construction Accident in Shelby County, Indiana. Indiana investigators identified the worker who was killed as 51-year old Ronald Rash from Shelbyville. The workplace accident happened Thursday near Morristown, Indiana at CGS Services, Inc. Another worker was hurt in the incident. Worker's Compensation issues could be involved, but there is no word to confirm this at last check.

Rash died from injuries suffered when a structure that was about 20 feet above the ground collapsed at a gravel pit. Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration officials aren't sure what caused the accident but are looking into it.

The Indiana Department of Labor examines Work Comp instances and work related injuries to better provide safety for Indiana workers. A look at the top 10 most violated standards does includes falls while on the job. In 2010, the 7th most violations involved protection from falls. There were 108 citations. The Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires that workers must have fall protection at four feet in general and six feet in construction. And, in 2010, the 10th most violations involved fall protection training for employees that are exposed to potential falls.

Continue reading "UPDATE: INDIANA WORKER KILLED IN CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENT IN SHELBY COUNTY" »

A cherry picker Truck Accident in South Bend, Indiana injured a man and his nephew on Thursday. Both worker Rick Franklin and his 8-year old nephew, Nate, were taken to a local Indiana hospital for treatment for their injuries. Rick was working at the time of the accident but was giving his nephew a ride in the bucket. Work related injuries can sometimes fall under Worker's Compensation.

The South Bend Tribune reports the truck toppled about 50 feet leaving both victims trapped in the bucket. Rick is a worker for Wayne's Tree Service, and the company's crew was apparently working to trim a large tree. The boy was reportedly at the work site with his parents and wanted a ride in the bucket which his uncle agreed to. However, as they were taking off a large branch from the tree, the truck fell over and landed on the ground. It is not clear why the cherry picker toppled.

At last check, Nate was out of the local Indiana hospital while Rick was still there and listed in stable condition.

Construction Accidents involving aerial lifts commonly lead to Worker's Compensation benefits in Indiana and throughout the country. The website, www.buckettrucks.org, notes that 26 construction workers die each year from aerial lifts and about 70% of those involve lifts such as bucket trucks and cherry pickers, and about a third of the fatalities were from tipping over.

Continue reading "BUCKET TRUCK TIPS IN SOUTH BEND, INDIANA INJURING MAN AND NEPHEW" »

An apparent Work Related Accident left two people hurt in Shelby County, Indiana. The incident happened Thursday morning near Morristown, Indiana which is about a half hour from downtown Indianapolis. It is not yet known if Workers Compensation benefits will apply to this accident.

Indianapolis TV stations report emergency responders and investigators say the work related accident might have started as workers were taking apart a building at CGS Services Inc. As the workers were doing this, a gravel pit apparently collapsed.

As mentioned above, it is not yet clear if Workers' Compensation benefits will apply in this instance. Worker's Compensation benefits are defined as those an employee is entitled to if that worker is hurt while in the course and scope of employment i.e. while on the job. Worker's Compensation is often referred to as "Work Comp." Workers Compensation benefits differ from state to state. In Indiana, the laws and codes that pertain to work related injuries are mainly outlined in the Indiana Worker's Compensation Act. The Worker's Compensation Board of Indiana has a website that explains some of benefits an injured worker may receive and some of the rights an injured worker may or may not have. For example, injured workers frequently wonder if their employer can fire them while they are not working because of a workplace injury. The Indiana Worker's Compensation Board explains that an employee can be fired if their injury precludes them from doing their job. However, that employee would most likely be entitled to certain disability payments.

Continue reading "TWO PEOPLE HURT IN APPARENT WORK RELATED ACCIDENT IN SHELBY COUNTY, INDIANA" »

A semi truck driver is dead after a Truck Crash in Kosciusko County, Indiana. The Auto Accident happened Tuesday on United States 30 in Pierceton. Another truck driver was not hurt in the two truck collision. Worker's Compensation could come into play, however, for the fatal victim.

A Kosciuscko County Fatal Accident Crash Team official says a tractor trailer driven by Nebraska's Roger Schmale hit another truck in the back. Chicago, Illinois's William Mendez was driving that truck. Indiana investigators say Schmale was apparently going the speed limit but didn't brake until the last moment and thus, crashed into Mendez's truck which was slowing down for a red light. Schmale died from his injuries while Mendez was not hurt.

Workers Compensation issues can arise not simply when a worker is hurt while on the job but also, when a worker dies while in the course and scope of employment. The Indiana Department of Labor reports that in 2009, highway vehicle accidents were the number one cause of death in the workplace. That accounted for 38% of workplace fatalities. The Indiana Work Comp Act details benefits workers' families could be entitled to in the event of a work related death.

Continue reading "INDIANA TRUCK ACCIDENT KILLS NEBRASKA SEMI DRIVER" »

We have an update to a tragic story from last year when an Indiana police officer was killed in a Car/Bicycle Accident. Today, Indianapolis's Sue Ann Vanderbeck pleaded guilty for her role in the deadly collision. Greenfield police officer William Phillips died in that crash. He was on a training ride at the time of the collision, and we'll discuss any potential Worker's Compensation issues later.

The Indianapolis Star reports Vanderbeck's plea deal consists of four years of home detention, but it could be cut to two years for good behavior. She will also lose her driver's license for half a year. She was facing the charge of leaving the scene of an accident causing death.

You may remember this vehicle crash from back in September. That's when Vanderbeck stuck Phillips with her car just after midnight. He and two other police officers were riding their bicycles on United States 40 at the time of the accident. They were part of the bike patrol team and had recently completed their shift. They were on a training ride on department issued bikes.

Workers Compensation is often discussed when a worker suffers an injury while on the job. However, some jobs like police officer and firefighter have the risk of injury associated with them so Indiana's standard Workers' Compensation Act does not apply. Many states have separate laws or codes concerning what actions to take when a police officer or firefighter is hurt or killed while in the course and scope of employment. Indiana Code 36-8-4-5 details how an Indiana city like Indianapolis should pay for the care of a police officer or firefighter who is hurt while on the job. Those injuries include one that results in a disability or death.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS WOMAN PLEDS GUILTY TO AUTO ACCIDENT THAT KILLED INDIANA POLICE OFFICER" »

Indiana investigators are looking into a church fire that killed a Muncie, Indiana firefighter. 40-year old Scott Davis died while battling a blaze inside the Tabernacle of Praise Church in Muncie, Indiana on Wednesday. An Indiana state fire marshal says two other firefighters were hurt as well. These injuries and the fatality could bring up Worker's Compensation issues.

As for the investigation into what caused the deadly fire, Indiana media reports indicate the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Indiana state fire officials and Muncie city investigators are among the teams looking into it. The fire broke through the roof of the church's sanctuary, and many parts of the roof collapsed. A short time after the roof collapsed, Davis reportedly was nowhere to be found.

Davis is a former fire chief in Yorktown, Indiana which is in Delaware County. He leaves behind a wife and three children.

As for the potential Work Comp issues mentioned above, we need to look into Indiana's specific laws. Worker's Compensation is the body of laws that pertains to an injury a worker suffers while on the job. It varies from state to state. Additionally, some jobs like firefighting have inherent risks so they are excluded or have a different form of Workers' Compensation than the state standard. For example, Indiana's Worker's Compensation Act states that it does not apply to members of municipal police or fire departments or members of a police or firefighter's pension fund. But, another Indiana law outside the Worker's Compensation Act applies and does provide care and benefits to police officers and firefighters hurt while on the job. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation also explains the benefits that the family of a fallen police officer or firefighters may receive.

Continue reading "MUNCIE, INDIANA FIREFIGHTER IS KILLED ON THE JOB BATTLING CHURCH FIRE" »

Eight Semi Trucks Crashed on an Indiana highway Monday evening. The truck accident happened on United States Interstate 70 near Terre Haute which is in western Indiana.

According to Indiana State Police, the chain reaction Auto Accident began when vehicles suddenly decreased speed in a construction zone. Three semi truck drivers and one passenger were hurt in the vehicle crash. They were transported to local Indiana hospitals for treatment for their injuries.

If the injured drivers were on the job when they suffered their injuries, they might be able to file a Work Comp claim. Work Comp is a shortened term for "Worker's Compensation." Workers' Compensation encompasses the body of laws concerning injuries a person suffers while in the course and scope of employment. Employers and companies pay into work comp insurance which in turn gives injured employees certain benefits.

Fortunately, in Monday's truck crash, the injuries, work comp related or not, were not fatal. However, construction zones can be extremely dangerous for construction workers and drivers alike. The website, www.workzonesafety.org, found that in 2009, 13 people died in vehicle crashes in construction/maintenance zones in Indiana.

Continue reading "SEVERAL SEMI TRUCKS COLLIDE ON INDIANA HIGHWAY" »

In Indiana, if you are hurt on the job, your injuries may fall under the Workers' Compensation field of law. Workers Compensation is often shortened to the term, "Work Comp." Worker's Compensation in Indiana refers to the accident insurance program that your company or boss pays for. This insurance then gives you several benefits including medical payments and wages in the event that you are hurt while in the course and scope of employment.

After you sustain a work related injury, you will probably have many questions regarding what benefits you are eligible for and how to go about making sure you receive the maximum benefits to which you are entitled. The Indiana's Worker's Compensation Board website answers many of the frequently asked questions. For example, a worker is covered by Workers Compensation from the first day on the job. And if a worker waits more than 30 days to report a work related accident, the worker's work comp claim may be denied.

Continue reading "A LOOK INTO INDIANA'S WORKERS' COMPENSATION GUIDELINES" »

Two drivers on Indiana's Interstate 70 in Hancock County were hurt after a Vehicle Crash. The Auto Accident involved a Semi Truck and a Car and happened in Greenfield early Thursday morning. Greenfield is about 30 minutes west of downtown Indianapolis.

An article on www.wishtv.com entitled, "Overturned Truck Closes I-70 in Hancock County," reports a female driver was going west on United State Interstate 70 when she moved the steering wheel suddenly as she attempted to not hit a deer. However, the woman did strike the deer. In the process, a tractor trailer behind the woman also swerved. This caused the truck driver to lose control, and the semi fell over and lost its load. Both drivers in this auto collision were hurt. The woman was seeking treatment for her injuries at Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital while the tractor trailer driver was at Hancock Regional Hospital.

It is not yet known if the semi truck driver suffered any Work Comp injuries. Workers' Compensation injuries refer to those an employee sustains while on the job. Many work comp injuries do happen in the transportation field. The Indiana Department of Labor examines various workplaces and looks at the dangers each poses as it works to improve safety. When examining the transportation and warehousing industry (the Department of Labor groups them together), the Indiana Department of Labor found on average, hurt workers in this field missed 23 days of work in 2009. That's the highest of any other Indiana industry and 11 days more than in 2008.

Continue reading "INTERSTATE 70 IN INDIANA'S HANCOCK COUNTY IS SCENE OF SEMI TRUCK CRASH RESULTING IN INJURIES" »

A Truck Crash involving two Semi Trailers happened on United States Interstate 70 in Indianapolis. Indiana State Police say the early Wednesday morning Vehicle Accident sent one man to the hospital with serious injuries. Workers' Compensation laws might come into play if it is determined that the injured party was in the course and scope of employment when he was hurt.

As for what caused the Semi Truck Accident, media outlet reports indicate one of the semis hit the other one in the back. Indiana State Police officers say that collision severely damaged the cab of the rear semi and the trailer of the first tractor trailer. Apparently, both semi trucks had been trying to get into the middle lane. The wounded driver is at Indianapolis's Wishard Hospital seeking treatment for his injuries.

With all the semi trucks on Indiana roads, it should come as no surprise to find that the transportation industry has one of the highest number of workplace, or Work Comp, deaths. The Indiana Department of Labor found that in 2009, transportation (coupled with warehousing) had the second most work related fatalities.

When we look specifically at tractor trailer accidents, one finds that there were more than 3,000 in 2009 throughout the country. And rear-ending another vehicle is quite common. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found a rear collision with another vehicle was the second most common form of large truck crashes.

Continue reading "TWO SEMI TRUCKS CRASH IN INDIANAPOLIS CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES" »

A Wednesday morning Truck Crash on Indianapolis's westside leaves one dead and one hurt. The Auto Accident happened on United States Interstate 74 in Marion County and involved a doughnut delivery truck which could mean this vehicle accident might have Workers' Compensation implications.

As detailed by Indiana State Police and media reports, the Cincy Donuts truck driver fell asleep as he was getting from Interstate 74 onto United States Interstate 465. An Indiana State Police officer says the truck then collided with a barrier and flipped. The truck driver's wife was a passenger in the truck, and she died in the vehicle crash. Emergency responders took the driver to Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital for treatment for his injuries.

According to reports, the truck driver was making his deliveries when the truck crash happened. Thus, he was on the job. On the job injuries are often considered Work Comp injuries. It is not clear if the driver's wife was also in the course and scope of employment when the truck accident happened. Unfortunately, our nation's highways are often the scene of work related injuries or deaths. The Indiana Department of Labor notes a Bureau of Labor Statistics study that found in 2009, highway vehicle accidents were the number one cause of workplace deaths with 38% of the fatalities.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS TRUCK CRASH LEAVES DRIVER'S WIFE DEAD" »

An On the Job Accident in Lafayette, Indiana killed one man and hurt another. The workplace accident happened last week at Fairfield Manufacturing. Lafayette is roughly an hour northwest of Indianapolis. The Tippecanoe County Coroner's Office said 28-year old Kyle Rhodes from Lafayette was identified as the employee who was killed.

The Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration is looking into the industrial accident which could have Workers' Compensation implications. Worker's Compensation is also known as Work Comp, and these terms refer to the laws that cover an injury or death that occurs while the employee is on the job. Forklifts are often to blame for Workers' Compensation injuries and deaths, and a forklift was, indeed, involved in last week's on the job accident.

After investigating, the Lafayette Police Department said two employees at Fairfield Manufacturing were hurt when they were pinned between a forklift and a Semi Truck. This apparently happened on a rear loading dock. Other details about the tragic work related accident are being withheld.

As mentioned earlier, forklifts are often involved in workplace accidents. The website, www.toolboxtopics.com, details a recent study which shows this. The study found most of the deadly forklift accidents were when an employee was crushed by the vehicle falling over. That happened in 42% of the cases. 25% of the time, the fatal forklift accidents involved someone being crushed between the vehicle and a surface. And the third most deadly forklift accident involved someone being crushed between two vehicles. As for the industry with the most forklift fatalities -- manufacturing had the most with 42.5%.

Continue reading "WORK RELATED ACCIDENT IN LAFAYETTE, INDIANA KILLS ONE MAN" »

Dozens of Indiana children are recovering after a School Bus Crash. The bus accident happened Tuesday in Hancock County close to Mount Comfort and involved two Mount Vernon Community School Corporation buses. The Buck Creek Fire Department's chief said about 30 students were taken to a local Indiana hospital. The students are in grades 5-12.

Eyewitness accounts and reports from Indiana investigators seem to imply that a car might have stopped suddenly which caused the Vehicle Accident. The bus behind the car apparently collided into it due to the car's sudden stop. The second bus driver was allegedly distracted by a student on the bus so the driver didn't realize the car had stopped suddenly or that the first bus had struck the car. Thus, the second bus crashed into the first.

While school buses are considered one of the safer modes of transportation, bus accidents do happen, of course. The website, www.safeguard4kids.com, quotes a study that found there are more than 140 school bus accidents every day in the United States, and almost 10,000 children are hurt in school bus crashes every year.

As for the bus drivers in Tuesday's vehicle collision, student accounts indicate at least one of the drivers was hurt after she was pinned between her seat and the steering wheel. Her injuries might fall under the Work Comp category. Workers' Compensation is term used to detail the laws that pertain to an injury that happens while the employee is in the course and scope of employment or, in other words, while on the job.

The Indiana Department of Labor keeps track of worker injuries as a step towards improving working conditions in various industries throughout the state. Transportation and Warehousing are grouped together for this purpose and are tied with construction for the business field in Indiana with the second most occupational fatalities in 2009.

Continue reading "STUDENTS HURT AFTER TWO INDIANA SCHOOL BUSES CRASH IN HANCOCK COUNTY" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer was hurt in a Car Crash involving another patrol car. The auto accident happened at the intersection of 38th Street and Illinois Street in Indiana's Marion County Tuesday morning. The officer's injury could possibly be deemed Work Comp related because it happened while the officer was in the course and scope of employment.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Two Officers Crash During Pursuit on Indianapolis North Side," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers were chasing a suspect in their police cruisers when the officers collided into each other. One of the officers was taken to a local Indianapolis hospital with a possible shoulder injury. After the auto accident, the suspect tried to run away, but Indianapolis police officers eventually caught and arrested him.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are, of course, part of the local government. And, Indiana state and local government employees are not immune from injuries on the job. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, 15,300 injuries and illnesses were reported among state and local government workers in 2009. That amounts to a rate of 5.0 per 100 employees.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS POLICE OFFICER HURT AFTER CAR CRASH INTO ANOTHER PATROL CAR IN MARION COUNTY" »

Indiana State Police say two people were severely hurt after a Truck Crash in Dearborn County. The victims are 42-year old J.F. Booth from Cleves, Ohio and 38-year old Tracy Goudreau from Massachusetts. No word if their injuries are Work Comp related. Dearborn County is in eastern Indiana, about 90 minutes from Indianapolis.

As reported by www.cincinnati.com in the article, "Driver, Passenger Critical After Crash," Indiana State Troopers say Booth was the driver of the pickup truck involved in the Vehicle Accident. Indiana investigators say Booth was driving south on Jamison Road when he lost control of the truck. The vehicle then hit an embankment, did many flips and then struck the embankment again. Booth and Goudreau were ejected from the truck, and both were not wearing seat belts.

Seatbelt use, or lack thereof, can play a role in the severity of injuries from an auto accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, using seat belts in passenger vehicles saved more than 12,000 lives. And from 2005-2009, seat belts are credited with saving more than 72,000 lives.

Continue reading "DEARBORN COUNTY, INDIANA TRUCK CRASH INJURES TWO" »

The Indiana State Department of Health is looking into a potential Work Comp related illness among Purdue University employees. Workers in Beering Hall are wondering if too many of their peers are getting cancer. This illness could be considered Work Comp related if it, indeed, was contracted while employees were in the course and scope of employment.

As detailed by www.wishtv.com in the article, "Is There a Cancer Cluster in Beering Hall," the employees notified the Department of Radiological and Environmental Management, and Purdue University then contacted the Indiana State Department of Health. Workers with the Indiana Department of Health are now trying to figure out which students and workers were diagnosed with cancer after being in Beering Hall. Those findings are expected next month. So far, officials with the West Lafayette campus say there have been 17 people diagnosed with cancer since 1994.

Unfortunately, dozens of Hoosiers do get sick every year while in the course and scope of employment. As reported by the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2005, 26,900 work-related injuries and illnesses required the injured worker to miss work, and 4.4% of them were because an employee was exposed to a harmful substance.

Continue reading "POTENTIAL WORK COMP RELATED ILLNESS AT INDIANA'S PURDUE UNIVERSITY" »

One person is dead following a Car Crash in Hamilton County, Indiana. That's just north of Indianapolis. The auto accident happened at about 4:15 Friday morning at Indiana State Road 37 and Essig Avenue which is north of Noblesville. The victim is identified as 50-year old Larrie Foor from Elwood, Indiana.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Fog Possible Factor in Deadly Hamilton County Crash," two vehicles were part of this auto accident. The Hamilton County Sheriff's Department says Foor's car was going south on Indiana State Road 37 when a green car, driven by 29-year old Hannah Freeman, going in the opposite direction veered across the center line and collided with Foor's car head-on. A passenger, 19-year old Amber McKinley, was taken to an Indianapolis-area hospital. Freeman was also taken to an Indianapolis-area hospital. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related. Freeman is now facing charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

Initially, Indiana investigators believed fog might have played a role in this fatal car crash. As many of us do know, weather conditions can play a big role in auto accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2,675 people were killed in vehicle crashes in 2009 throughout the country when rainy conditions were present. Surprisingly, while still too many, only 660 people were killed in auto accidents when snow or sleet conditions were present.

Continue reading "DEADLY CAR CRASH IN HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA" »

Indiana State Police are investigating a deadly Semi Truck Crash in Marshall County, Indiana. Two people died in last week's Vehicle Accident after a semi truck collided into an SUV. The semi truck driver was not injured, but had the driver suffered injuries, they could have been deemed Work Comp related if the driver was on the job when they occurred.

As reported by www.wndu.com in the article, "Marshall County Accident Claims Two Lives," the victims were both in the SUV. Indiana State Police officers say the SUV's driver, 80-year old Charles Avery, did not stop at an intersection for a tractor trailer that was approaching. Thus, the semi truck collided with the SUV. Avery died instantly while his wife, Virginia, died a little while later.

Unfortunately, statistics show that as we get older, our driving abilities decline. USA Today documents a recent study that showed fatality rates for drivers start to rise after the age of 65. And, from ages 75-84, the death rate per 100 million miles driven is the same as for teen drivers. Even more troubling, for drivers 85 years old and older, the fatality rate is almost four times higher than it is for teenage drivers.

Continue reading "TWO PEOPLE DIE IN SEMI TRUCK CRASH IN MARSHALL COUNTY, INDIANA" »

Two people are dead following a Car Crash in Parke County, Indiana. That's in western Indiana about 90 minutes west of Indianapolis. The auto accident happened early Monday morning on United States 41, just north of Rockville. No word yet on the identities of the victims or if their deadly injuries were deemed Work Comp related.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "2 Killed in Car Crash," Parke County Sheriff's Department officials say the car was going south when it went off the road and hit a culvert. They say the vehicle then went into the air and rolled and landed upside down. Both the driver and passenger were thrown from the car. Indiana investigators are looking into what caused this deadly car accident.

This auto accident happened at about 1:30 in the morning which is not considered a very dangerous time period on Mondays. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the time period of midnight to 2:59am on Mondays had the second fewest fatal vehicle accidents in the country in 2009 on Mondays with 316 deaths in vehicle crashes. Only 3am-5:59am on Mondays had fewer deadly auto accidents.

Continue reading "TWO PEOPLE DIE IN CAR CRASH IN PARKE COUNTY, INDIANA" »

The Vigo County community is grieving after two Indiana boys died in an Auto Accident last week. The vehicle crash happened Friday afternoon on Old Riley Road. Indiana State Police say the victims are Cale Roberts and Noah Washington, both 11 years old. The boys were in the backseat of a car that Roberts's sister was driving. Chelsea Roberts is a senior at Terre Haute South High School.

As reported by www.mywabashvalley.com in the article, "Two Riley Students Die in Crash; VCSC Sending Help to School," Indiana State Police say Chelsea Roberts apparently drifted off the road and hit an SUV when she over-corrected. Medics took both boys to an Indianapolis area hospital via helicopter. However, the children did die from their injuries. No word if the SUV driver suffered any injuries or if they were Work Comp related.

Unfortunately, overcorrecting is often the cause of deadly vehicle crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in Indiana, overcorrecting or oversteering was to blame for 65 fatal vehicle collisions in 2009. That was 6.6% of all the deadly accidents.

Continue reading "VIGO COUNTY COMMUNITY MOURNS DEATH OF TWO INDIANA BOYS IN CAR CRASH " »

A northern Indiana father and daughter are dead after a Vehicle Crashed into the bicycle they were on Sunday. The LaGrange County Sheriff's Department says the victims are 32-year old Jason Helmuth and his four year old daughter, Jayna. They were both from Shipshewana, Indiana which is about 3 hours north of downtown Indianapolis. The driver of the vehicle is from Middlebury. No word if he was on the job and suffered any Work Comp related injuries.

As reported by the Elkhart Truth in the article, "Father and Daughter on Bike Hit by Vehicle and Die Sunday in Shipshewana," LaGrange County Sheriff's Department officials say the bicycle/auto collision happened on Indiana State Road 120 near 9460 W. The vehicle's 22 year old driver was apparently going east as were Helmuth and his daughter on their bicycle. The driver then allegedly hit the bicycle from behind which caused Helmuth and his daughter, a passenger on the bicycle, to be thrown from their bike. They both died at the scene.

Bicycle/vehicle crashes happen all too often and can happen due to a variety of circumstances. A study detailed on www.bicyclinglife.com looked into several of the causes and determined that a vehicle driver not stopping at a stop sign was the most prevalent cause of a bicycle/auto accident. A driver entering the road from an uncontrolled driveway or alley while the bicyclist was on a crossing path was found to be the second leading cause of a bicycle/vehicle crash.

Continue reading "NORTHERN INDIANA FATHER AND DAUGHTER DIE AFTER VEHICLE CRASHES INTO THEIR BICYCLE" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer was involved in a Car Crash Thursday morning in Marion County. His new patrol car was damaged, but apparently, the officer was not hurt. If Officer Tracy Dodd was hurt in the vehicle accident, his injuries could possibly be deemed Work Comp related because they happened while he was on the job.

As recorded by www.wishtv.com in the article, "New IMPD Squad Car Smashed in Wreck," Indiana crash investigators say Dodd was driving south in his patrol car on Post Road in Indianapolis when another car, a Cadillac, pulled out in front of him and collided head-on with his squad car. An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department sergeant said he could detect alcohol on the Cadillac driver's breath.

Alcohol can be deadly when mixed with driving. Thousands of people die every year from drunk driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were more than 9,800 deadly vehicle crashes that involved alcohol-impaired driving in the United States in 2009. That's about 32% of all deadly auto accidents that year.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT OFFICER IN HEAD-ON CAR CRASH IN MARION COUNTY" »

A Truck Accident in Gary, Indiana claimed the life of a semi truck driver. 60-year old Gregory Ingram died Tuesday afternoon on United States Interstate 80/94. That's about two and a half hours from downtown Indianapolis. Indiana State Police say as Ingram was standing outside his semi truck, a pickup truck hit and killed him. If Ingram was on the job, his injuries and subsequent death could deemed Work Comp related.

As reported by www.nwitimes.com in the article, "Truck Driver Struck, Killed by Passing Vehicle on Borman," Ingram was apparently outside his tractor trailer which was parked on the shoulder of United States Interstate 80/94. Indiana State Police say as Ingram was attempting to get back into his semi, a pickup truck driven by a Chicago man veered and hit the semi truck's box trailer. The pickup truck then allegedly collided into Ingram. The force of the Vehicle Accident caused Ingram to be tossed onto the pickup truck and then tossed onto the ground. Ingram was pronounced dead at a local Gary hospital. Indiana State Police cited the Chicago, Illinois pickup truck driver for unsafe lane movement.

As stated earlier, an injury that occurs in the course and scope of one's employment could be considered Workers' Compensation related. And unfortunately, fatal vehicle accidents while the victims are on the job do happen all too often on Indiana roads. Not surprisingly, according to the Indiana Department of Labor, the transportation industry has the second highest number of workplace deaths. In 2009, the transportation and warehousing industry in Indiana had 17 workplace fatalities. Only the construction and agriculture industries had an equal number or more workplace deaths.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK DRIVER DIES AFTER HIT BY PICKUP TRUCK IN GARY, INDIANA" »

Indiana State Police are looking into a deadly Semi Truck Crash in Ripley County. 31-year old Wess Lovins was killed in the Auto Accident when his car collided with a semi on United States 50. He was from Milan which is about an hour and a half southeast of Indianapolis. The tractor trailer's driver and co-driver did suffer injuries. These injuries could be deemed Work Comp related because they happened while the victims were on the job.

As reported by www.eaglecountryonline.com in the article, "Milan Man Dies in U.S. 50 Crash," Indiana State Police say Lovins was heading west on United States 50 when his car veered to the left and hit a semi truck head-on. The Ripley County Coronor's office says Lovins died at the scene.

The deadly semi truck crash happened at 11pm. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the time period of 9pm-11:59pm is one of the deadliest with 4,359 fatal vehicle accidents. Only 3pm-5:59pm and 6pm-8:59pm are deadlier.

Continue reading "MILAN, INDIANA MAN DIES AFTER SEMI TRUCK CRASH IN RIPLEY COUNTY" »

An Indiana woman died after a head-on Vehicle Crash in Hamilton County involving the ambulance she was in and a minivan. The auto accident happened Wednesday night on Indiana State Road 38. Beverly Baker was a quadriplegic going to a local Indiana hospital for a procedure. It is not clear if the minivan driver or the ambulance crew suffered any Work Comp injuries.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Quadriplegic Patient Dies After Ambulance is Hit by Another Vehicle Head-on," the ambulance was on Indiana State Road 38 when a minivan did not stop at a stop sign and collided with the ambulance. The ambulance then flipped over and landed in a ditch. Baker's cot broke due to the force of the crash. Hamilton County's sheriff says medics and police officers determined Baker was ok after the crash and continued to take her to the hospital. However, upon her arrival, doctors realized Baker had multiple injuries including a hematoma and broken bones. Baker became comatose after emergency surgery and died three days later.

Now, Baker's daughters are questioning the actions of medics and Hamilton County police officers. Her daughters tell Fox 59 they believe mistakes were made at the scene of the vehicle accident, mistakes that cost their mother her life. The Hamilton County sheriff's crash investigation team is looking into the auto accident.

While ambulances do provide much needed medical help, they can prove deadly. According to www.emsworld.com, in 1991-2000, occupied ambulances were involved in 300 deadly collisions. Those auto accidents resulted in 82 ambulance occupants dying and 275 people in other vehicles and pedestrians dying.

Continue reading "INDIANA WOMAN DIES AFTER AMBULANCE SHE WAS IN CRASHES INTO MINIVAN IN HAMILTON COUNTY" »

An Auto Accident in Indianapolis involving four cars Saturday left several people hurt. The car crash happened after a chase between the suspects and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers. The chase began in downtown Indianapolis and kept going on the city's east side. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "Police: Chase for Suspects Ends with Crash, Injuries," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the incident began after officers saw a Pontiac driving recklessly. When an officer attempted to pull the suspect over, the suspect did not stop and a chase ensued. The chase eventually ended with a four car crash. The people in the Pontiac then ran away. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are still looking for them.

Apparently, one person was hurt when debris from the car crash hit him and caused him to fall off a ladder. It is not clear if he was on the job or if he suffered a work comp injury, but people do get hurt from falls from ladders all too often. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, on a yearly basis, about 1,400 ladder accidents that cause injuries occur. 42% of those hurt were working on the ladder when the accident happened.

Continue reading "SEVERAL PEOPLE HURT IN MARION COUNTY CAR CRASH AFTER INDIANAPOLIS POLICE CHASE" »

Thursday, the state of Indiana honored Indiana workers who were killed on the job. On the job injuries or deaths are often deemed Work Comp related because they happen while a worker is in the course and scope of employment. April 28th was the annual Workers' Memorial Day ceremony. People at the Indiana Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis honored the 122 Indiana workers killed on the job in 2010.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Workers Killed on the Job in 2010 Remembered at Indiana Statehouse," the AFL-CIO union put on the event and stated they want legislators to implement tougher laws to safeguard Hoosier workers.

While even one death is too many, Indiana is seeing the number of Hoosier workers killed on the job decline. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2009, 123 workers were killed on the job. That number was the lowest on record for Indiana until last year, when that number of on the job deaths dropped to 122.

Continue reading "INDIANA HONORS WORKERS KILLED ON THE JOB" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer was hurt in a Car Crash Wednesday night on Indianapolis's east side. An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson says both of the officer's legs were injured. The officer was taken to Methodist Hospital in Marion County. The officer's injuries could be deemed Work Comp related because he was hurt while in the course and scope of employment.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "IMPD Officer Injured in High-Speed Chase," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officials say the auto accident began when an officer saw a stolen car and began to follow it. The stolen car driver then apparently began to speed away, and a chase ensued into an alley. Indiana investigators say as the stolen car was heading west in the alley, it collided head-on into another Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department squad car that was helping end the chase. Police say the stolen car driver ran away after the vehicle crash. Also during the chase, a woman was hurt after she was pushed or jumped out of the stolen car. She was taken to Indianapolis's Wishard Hospital. No word if her injuries are work comp related.

The term "Work Comp" or "Workers' Compensation" refers to the laws covering an injury one suffers while in the course and scope of employment. In other words, it's an injury one suffers while on the job. "On the job" can be in a variety of places, not just in an office or construction site. Work Comp injuries can, indeed, happen while in a vehicle. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2005, 5.2% of the work-related injuries and illnesses that required workers to miss work were caused by transportation accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS POLICE OFFICER HURT IN CAR CRASH WITH STOLEN VEHICLE IN MARION COUNTY" »

Lafayette's Dustin Stevens is facing criminal charges stemming from a deadly Vehicle Crash on a United States Interstate 65 exit ramp last autumn. The 28-year old is charged in a Tippecanoe County, Indiana Superior Court with several counts including operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a controlled substance in his blood causing death and operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing death. The Indiana State Toxicology Lab apparently found traces of marijuana in Stevens's blood.

As reported by www.jconline.com in the article, "Charges Filed in Fatal Wrong-Way Crash on I-65 Ramp," the auto accident happened on the northbound United States Interstate 65 exit ramp to Indiana 26. Stevens was apparently driving the wrong way when the passenger side of his car crashed into a Semi Truck. 30-year old Brooke Adams was a passenger in Stevens's car. She died as a result of the vehicle collision. No word if the semi truck driver suffered any Work Comp injuries.

Driving under the influence of drugs along with driving the wrong way can be highly dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication accounted for about 7,000 fatal vehicle crashes. Driving the wrong way accounted for more than 1300 deadly vehicle accidents.

Continue reading "CHARGES FILED AGAINST LAFAYETTE MAN BLAMED IN DEADLY VEHICLE CRASH" »

Four people are hurt, two very seriously, after a Car Accident on Indianapolis's southeast side. The auto accident happened early Tuesday morning on Fisher Road. One of the car's passengers is in critical condition at Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital. The car's driver is in serious condition at Indianapolis's Wishard Hospital. The other two passengers are not severely hurt. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Serious Crash on Southeast Side Injures Four," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say the car's driver lost control and one person in the back seat was ejected. Indiana investigators believe the car might have flipped over after the driver lost control. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say alcohol might be to blame for the crash.

It is well-known that driving while under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous. Unfortunately, sometimes, it can be fatal. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication were involved in more than a hundred deadly vehicle crashes in Indiana in 2009.

Continue reading "FOUR PEOPLE HURT IN SERIOUS CAR ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are looking for the driver involved in a hit and run Vehicle Accident in a stolen car. This accident involved a bicyclist who was hit by a car early Monday morning at the intersection of 31st and Clifton on Indianapolis's west side. The bicyclist was hurt but is expected to be okay. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.fox59.com in the article, "Bicyclist Injured After Hit and Run on Indianapolis West Side," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers found the car shortly after the accident. It was apparently stolen and burnt and recovered at the intersection of Congress and Elmira in Indianapolis.

People get hurt on bikes all too often, but solid statistics are hard to come by because many bike accidents are not reported. Many people assume bicyclists are usually at fault in accidents involving cars, but recent research refutes that claim. According to www.bicycleuniverse.info, a study by the group, Right of Way, looked at fatal bicycle accidents in New York City. The study showed that traffic violations by motorists, not bicyclists, were the main cause of deadly bike accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA BICYCLIST HIT BY CAR IN HIT AND RUN VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

An Indiana woman suffered severe injuries after she was involved in a Semi Truck Crash in Florida. The Vehicle Accident happened Wednesday afternoon near Englewood. Florida Highway Patrol officers say the Indiana victim is 63-year old Marjorie Bunting from Dagsboro.

As reported by the Herald-Tribune in the article, "Woman Seriously Injured in Englewood Accident," Bunting did not stop at a stop sign while driving her car north. Florida Highway Patrol officers say she then tried to drive her car in front of a semi that was going west. That's when her car collided with the truck. No word if the truck driver suffered any Work Comp injuries. Bunting is expected to be charged with violation of right of way.

People can be involved in auto accidents at any age. Sometimes, tragically, the vehicle accidents are fatal. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 55-64 year old age group had the fifth highest number of people killed in vehicle accidents in 2009 with 3,781 deaths.

Continue reading "INDIANA WOMAN SERIOUSLY HURT IN SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT IN FLORIDA" »

A Fort Wayne, Indiana construction worker's family is grieving after he was killed in a Semi Truck Accident last week while on the job. On the Job Accidents are often deemed Work Comp related because they happen while the victim is in the course and scope of employment. 25-year old Ryan Zimmerman was working for a contractor for the Indiana Department of Transportation on United States 27 when a semi ran him over and killed him.

As reported by www.wane.com in the article, "Family of Killed Construction Worker Speaks Out," Zimmerman was part of a PRIMCO construction crew fixing concrete on United States 27 in Decatur when the on the job accident happened. He was in a dug up section of the road when the tractor trailer turned, and apparently, that's when the semi's trailer ran over Zimmerman.

As a result of this construction accident, officials with the Indiana Department of Transportation are requesting that drivers use extra caution when in construction zones. Unfortunately, work zones on roads are very dangerous. According to www.workzonesafety.org, in Indiana, in 2009, 13 people died in motor vehicle traffic accidents in construction/maintenance zones. And throughout the country in 2009, large trucks were involved in 122 construction work zone crashes.

Continue reading "FORT WAYNE CONSTRUCTION WORKER'S FAMILY GRIEVES AFTER HE IS KILLED IN SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT IN INDIANA" »

The Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration is looking into an On The Job Accident involving a Semi Truck that left a Marion County, Indiana man dead. The deadly incident happened Tuesday evening on Indianapolis's northeast side. On the job injuries are usually deemed Work Comp injuries because they happen in the course and scope of the victim's employment. Lawrence police say 55-year old Randy Wimmer from Lawrence is the name of the victim.

As reported by www.wishtv.com in the article, "Man Pinned by Semi at Loading Dock Dies," Wimmer apparently died after the driver of the semi truck backed into a loading dock at O'Neal Steel to make a delivery and backed into Wimmer. The tractor trailer's driver discovered this when he got out of his truck to figure out why his truck wasn't sealing properly. The truck driver moved his semi to free Wimmer, but it was too late.

Unfortunately, injuries from loading dock accidents are a common form of Work Comp injuries. According to www.narm.biz, loading dock hazards include falls, carbon monoxide exposure, back injuries, head and eye injuries from falling objects, and injuries from the neglectful operation of equipment.

Continue reading "LAWRENCE MAN DIES AFTER ON THE JOB ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

The University of Notre Dame in Indiana is releasing new information in the death of Illinois's Declan Sullivan who was a student at the school and filming football practice when he fell to his death. School officials say after investigating, they found the football staff wasn't using the most up-to-date National Weather Service report the day Sullivan died. The 20-year old died when windy conditions caused the hydraulic lift he was on to tumble over while he was on the job. On the job injuries can be deemed Work Comp injuries because a victim suffers them while in the course and scope of employment.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article,"Probe: Notre Dame Used Old Weather Info on Day Student Died," the National Weather Service had released a warning of wind gusts near 40 miles per hour. That warning apparently came at 2:54PM just about 45 minutes before football practice at 3:45PM. The university's probe found the football staff was apparently relying on a weather report from 1:54PM that showed wind gusts of 29 miles per hour. The wind speed was at more than 50 miles per hour at the time the lift Sullivan was on blew over. The Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration has already fined the University of Notre Dame more than $75,000 for violations connected to the student's on the job death.

On the job or Work Comp accidents can happen in all different jobs and at all different times. And unfortunately, sometimes, they can be fatal. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2009, 123 workers were killed on the job in the Hoosier state.

Continue reading "PROBE FINDS NOTRE DAME USED OUTDATED WEATHER REPORT WHEN ILLINOIS STUDENT DIED WHILE ON THE JOB" »

An Evansville, Indiana man is dead after an apparent Work Comp related accident at American Electric Power plant in Rockport. The city of Rockport is in Spencer County which is about three hours south of Indianapolis. Work Comp injuries or Workers' Compensation injuries are those that one suffers while in the course and scope of their employment or in short, while on the job.

As reported by www.wishtv.com in the article, "Evansville Man Dies After Power Plant Fall," 54-year old Kent Todd was a contractor at the plant who fell 150 feet while on the job. The Spencer County Coroner says Todd suffered massive internal injuries from the fall. The coroner's office is still looking into this incident.

The electric power industry is a vital part of our nation's economy, but unfortunately, many of the industry's jobs are dangerous. Hazards include electrocution, fires, explosions, fractures, environmental stress, and of course, falls. The U.S. Department of Labor sites reports that falls from elevations were the 4th leading cause of occupational deaths from 1980-1994 with an average of 540 deaths every year.

Continue reading "INDIANA MAN DIES WHILE ON THE JOB AT ELECTRIC POWER PLANT IN ROCKPORT" »

An Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department patrol car was involved in an Auto Accident with a pickup truck Thursday night. That vehicle crash happened at the intersection of Fall Creek Parkway and 30th Street in Indiana's Marion County. The truck driver, who is from Indianapolis, was arrested for having a suspended license. Neither the truck driver nor the Indianapolis police officer suffered any major injuries, but there is no word if any of their minor injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.wishtv.com in the article, "Driver Arrested After Collision with IMPD Officer," Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers say it appears the pickup truck ran a red light while driving east on 30th Street. This apparently caused the police car that was going south on Fall Creek Parkway to collide with the truck.

Thankfully, both drivers did not suffer any severe injuries. And recent trends show the number of auto accidents with injuries is decreasing. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, only 27.6% of vehicle accidents resulted in injuries. That's the lowest percentage in the years 1988-2009.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS PATROL CAR COLLIDES WITH PICKUP TRUCK IN MARION COUNTY" »

Two men are dead after a Construction Accident in Indiana's Tippecanoe County. The apparent Workers Compensation accident happened Wednesday morning at a radio tower. The construction crew was from ERI, Inc. in southwest Indiana.

As reported by www.wthr.com in the article, "Two Dead in Tippecanoe County Radio Tower Accident," the Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Department says two of the construction workers who were on the tower were allegedly working more then 300 feet above the ground when a platform they were on collapsed. Workers Paul Aliss and Ernest Garcia, both from Texas, were killed in the apparent work comp accident. Indiana investigators say both construction accident victims did have safety cables on themselves. Officials with the Indiana Occupational Health and Safety Administration are now looking into this deadly construction accident.

According to www.wirelessestimator.com, these men were the second and third tower technicians to die on the job this year. The website, www.wirelessestimator.com, also finds that based on 2004 data from the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers who climb cell towers and other communications structures have the most dangerous job in the United States. That's based on a death rate per 100,000 employees.

Continue reading "TIPPECANOE COUNTY IS SITE OF DEADLY INDIANA CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENT" »

Indiana State Police were on the scene of a Car Crash in Hamilton County Wednesday morning. Hamilton County is north of Indianapolis. Indiana State Police say the auto collision happened on Indiana State Road 37 near the Florida Road intersection. Part of State Road 37 was shutdown as a result of the car accident.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "At Least Two Hurt in Serious Crash," one of the cars involved in the auto accident was on fire. At least one other car was involved in the crash. Indiana State Police say one person had to be pulled from one of the cars while one other victim was apparently ejected from a car. Medical helicopters were heading to the scene of the auto accident. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

While we are still awaiting word on the extent of the victims' injuries, there is promising news on current trends related to traffic safety. The United States Transportation Secretary recently announced the number and rate of traffic deaths in 2010 fell to the lowest levels in more than 60 years, since 1949. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, total traffic deaths dropped three percent between 2009 and last year. And, since 2005, the number of deaths fell 25 percent. This all happened despite a huge increase in the miles Americans traveled on our country's roads.

Continue reading "HAMILTON COUNTY CAR CRASH SHUTS DOWN PART OF INDIANA STATE ROAD 37" »

We're learning more about the deadly Semi Truck Crash in Indianapolis that involved now six vehicles. The multi Auto Accident happened Monday in a construction zone on United States Interstate 70 near United States Interstate 465. One person from Indianapolis died after his car was struck by another tractor trailer while people in other vehicles were hurt. We're still awaiting word to see if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As detailed by the Indy Star in the article, "Truck Firm Sought Permit an Hour After Fatal I-70 Crash," Indiana State Police say the company that owns the semi that is to blame for the vehicle accident failed to request a permit for an oversized load until 60 minutes following the deadly multi vehicle collision. Poindexter Transportation is the name of the truck company, and it's based in Indianapolis. Its semi was driven by Indianapolis's Donald Taylor, and Indiana investigators cited him for not having a permit for an oversized load and for violation of a permit.

Indiana State Police say this auto collision began when Taylor's semi was going east and hit a few concrete median barriers forcing them into the westbound lane. Several cars in the westbound lane moved, trying to get out of the barriers' way, and that's when a Suzuki passenger car was hit from behind by another semi. The Suzuki was driven by 41-year old Judson Dye from Indianapolis. He died from the semi crash. Four people were hurt and were treated and released at Indianapolis's Methodist Hospital.

While large trucks like tractor trailers are a vital part of our nation's economy, they can, unfortunately, pose dangers on the road. According to www.smartmotorist.com, in 1996 more than 5,000 people died in large truck crashes. Only 12% of them were in the trucks. And, in auto accidents involving a large truck and a passenger vehicle, 98% of the deaths were people in cars, vans, pickup trucks or SUV's.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS SEMI TRUCK DRIVER AT ROOT OF DEADLY MULTI VEHICLE ACCIDENT IN MARION COUNTY IS CITED" »

The city of Mishawaka in northern Indiana settled a case involving a 5 year old boy who was electrocuted to death in 2008. The boy's family sued for Wrongful Death and emotional distress. Terms of the settlement were not made public.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in the article, "City Settles with Family of Electrocuted Boy," the deadly incident happened on Thanksgiving of 2008. The victim's name was Izaya Baiz-Hickey. He apparently crawled into an electrical transformer box and was then shocked to death. Mishawaka Utilities owned the box which was not locked at the time of the boy's death. The boy's family sued the city of Mishawaka, the apartment complex where the incident happened and its management company. The case against the apartment complex and management company has not yet been resolved.

Unfortunately, dozens of people including those in Indiana die each year from being electrocuted. And many of those deaths happen when people are on the job and are Work Comp related. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, electrocutions are the fifth leading cause of workplace deaths with more than five thousand workers dying from contact with electrical energy from 1980-1992.

Continue reading "INDIANA WRONGFUL DEATH CASE INVOLVING ELECTROCUTED BOY SETTLES" »

An Indianapolis man is dead and four others are hurt after a Semi Truck Accident that also involved several cars on Indianapolis's far westside. The Auto Collision happened Monday morning on United States Interstate 70 under the United States Interstate 465 overpass.

As reported by the Indy Star in the article, "I-70 Construction Zone Crash Kills One, Injures Four," the vehicle crash started when a semi truck heading east and loaded with construction equipment struck temporary concrete barriers on United States Interstate 70. According to Indiana State Police, that impact caused many parts of that barrier to move into westbound lanes and cars were forced to move in an attempt to avoid crashing into the barriers. Indiana investigators say a Suzuki car that was attempting to get out of the way, collided with a car in front of it, and then a tractor trailer crashed in it, smashing the Suzuki. The Suzuki car's driver was a 41-year old man from Indianapolis. He died in this collision with the semi.

Indiana State Police say four other people were hurt in the multi vehicle accident. At least two of the injured are from Indianapolis and were taken to Marion County's Methodist Hospital. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

Unfortunately, this deadly semi truck accident involved multiple trucks and cars, and that is commonly the case when tractor trailers are involved. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, throughout the country in 2009, large trucks were involved in 2,612 deadly multi vehicle crashes as opposed to 603 deadly single vehicle accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS MAN DIES AFTER HIT BY SEMI TRUCK IN MULTI AUTO ACCIDENT IN INDIANA'S MARION COUNTY" »

One person is dead following an Auto Accident in Madison County, Indiana Sunday evening. Medics transported one of the other auto collision victims to a hospital in Indianapolis. Another auto crash victim is at Mercy Hospital in Elwood. No word if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Police Investigate Deadly Crash in Madison County," Indiana police say a car going west on Indiana State Road 28 crossed into on-coming traffic and hit a minivan head on. Indiana investigators say the minivan's passenger died in the auto collision. The minivan's driver was airlifted to a local Indianapolis area hospital. The car's driver suffered numerous injuries including those to the head.

Unfortunately, this auto accident involving a minivan turned deadly. However, statistically, minivans are involved in a relatively few number of fatal auto crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in Indiana in 2009, minivans were involved in 45 deadly vehicle crashes. That accounted for only 4.5% of the fatal auto accidents in Indiana that year.

Continue reading "ONE PERSON DIES IN MADISON COUNTY CAR/MINIVAN CRASH AS OTHER VICTIMS ARE TREATED AT INDIANA HOSPITALS" »

Two Indiana women are dead after a Semi Truck Accident. The vehicle crash happened on United States Interstate 70 in Ohio on March 26th. The Indiana women were both from Richmond, Indiana and were in a car that collided with a tractor trailer. The car's driver was 47 year old Tina Boswell and 72 year old Tomella Mason was the passenger. The semi truck driver is from Munster, Indiana, and he did suffer some minor injuries. No word if they are Work Comp related.

As reported by The Register Herald in the article, "Two Die in I-70 Crash," Boswell's car was heading west when it crossed the median and crashed head on into the semi truck. Ohio Highway Patrol officers say they believe the car's driver was either tired or suffered a medical issue and thus, say those factors could have led to the deadly auto accident.

While large trucks like semi trucks are frequently found on Indiana roads and have a big size advantage over other vehicles, you might be surprised to learn they are not the vehicle involved in the highest number of fatal auto crashes. As compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, large trucks were involved in 7.1% of deadly accidents in the United States. Passenger cars, light trucks and motorcycles were all involved in a higher percentage of deadly vehicle collisions according to this study.

Continue reading "TWO INDIANA WOMEN DIE IN VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH SEMI TRUCK ON INTERSTATE 70 IN OHIO" »

A head-on Car Crash in Jennings County, Indiana left four people with injuries. The two car accident happened last week on United States 50. Jennings County is in southeast Indiana. The victims were flown to an Indianapolis area hospital.

As reported by www.WISHTV.com in the article, "Four Flown from Jennings County Accident," it appears one car's driver, Kevin Wagler, was going east on United States 50 when he allegedly did not negotiate a turn in the road. Indiana State Troopers say Wagler then collided head-on with another car that was stopped while waiting to turn onto United States 50. The four people who suffered injuries in the car crash were passengers in Wagler's car. It is not clear if any of the injuries are Work Comp related.

Millions of people are hurt in car crashes every year even if they are simply passengers. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2008, 2,346,000 people were hurt in vehicle accidents, and 2,120,000 were occupants. Of those, 1,340,000 were in passenger cars. That's more than in light trucks, heavy trucks and buses combined.

Continue reading "FOUR INDIANA PEOPLE HURT IN HEAD ON CAR ACCIDENT IN JENNINGS COUNTY" »

An Indiana school bus and a truck were involved in a Vehicle Crash in Clay County earlier this week. Clay County is in the southwestern part of Indiana. The bus driver and the students aboard the bus suffered minor injuries. The driver of the truck, Kasie Scarbrough, was taken to an Indianapolis hospital with more severe injuries. No word if any of the drivers' injuries are Work Comp related.

According to www.WTHITV.com in the article, "School Bus Crashes into Truck in Clay County," the truck/bus accident happened on Clay County Road 800 North and 150 West. Indiana investigators say the truck's driver did not stop to give the school bus the right of way. Thus, the bus driver hit the truck which then struck a light pole.

While school buses do find themselves in auto accidents, they are considered an extremely safe form of transportation. As detailed by www.parenting.kaboose.com, kids are almost eight times safer traveling in a school bus than with their parents or peers.

Continue reading "INDIANA SCHOOL BUS CRASHES INTO TRUCK IN CLAY COUNTY" »

Indiana State Police believe they might have found the cause of a Semi Truck Accident that killed two girls last week in Ripley County. Ripley County is about 90 minutes southeast of Indianapolis. Indiana State Troopers say the driver was likely not paying attention. No word if the semi driver suffered any Work Comp injuries.

As reported by www.WKRC.com in the article, "Driver Inattention May Have Led to Deadly Ripley County Crash," Kristopher Brown from Versailles was driving a pickup truck on United States 421 with two young girls, age 6 and 7, in the backseat. Their mother was also in the vehicle. They were stopped and waiting to turn onto County Road 4505. Indiana State Police say that's when a semi truck crashed into their pickup truck from behind. Both young girls died instantly. Brown and the girls' mother were injured and at last check, were listed in critical condition.

Unfortunately, inattentive drivers are responsible for many Auto Crashes every year in the United States including in Indiana. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that in 2009, inattention accounted for 9.3% of deadly vehicle accidents. That number is more promising in Indiana. That same study found that inattentive drivers in the Hoosier state were involved in 1.7% of deadly vehicle collisions in Indiana.

Continue reading "DEADLY SEMI TRUCK CRASH IN INDIANA LIKELY CAUSED BY TRUCK DRIVER NOT PAYING ATTENTION" »

A Southern Indiana chase between Indiana State Police and a stolen ambulance in New Albany ends in a Vehicle Crash and an arrest. 43-year old Larry Loughman from Jeffersonville is charged with felony auto theft in Clark, Floyd, Scott and Jackson counties and is being detained at the Floyd County Jail in New Albany which is about two hours south of Indianapolis.

As reported by www.WTHR.com in the article, "Man Steals Ambulance, Leads Police on I-65 Pursuit," the suspect apparently stole an Orange County ambulance that was parked outside a New Albany restaurant Saturday night while the emergency responders ate. Indiana State Police say Loughman then led troopers on a chase up United States Interstate 65 before he crashed into a police squad car near Seymour, Indiana. No word if the police officers in the patrol car involved in the auto accident suffered any Work Comp injuries.

Work Comp injuries can happen when one is in one's vehicle and is involved in an auto accident if the injury happens when the person is on the job. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2005, 5.2% of the work related injuries that necessitated the employee to miss work were caused by transportation accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA STATE POLICE PATROL CAR INVOLVED IN VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH STOLEN AMBULANCE IN NEW ALBANY" »

An 18-year old Indiana bicyclist was involved in a Semi Truck Crash in Hendricks County which is about 30 minutes southwest of Indianapolis. The accident happened at about 5 o'clock Wednesday morning on Indiana State Road 67. The bicyclist, Brian Cook, is from Camby and attends Mooresville High School. Indiana medics took him to Indianapolis's Wishard Hospital with multiple injuries. No word if the truck driver suffered any Work Comp related injuries.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "High School Student Injured in Bike vs. Semi Crash," Indiana State Police say the high school senior did not stop for the oncoming tractor trailer at an intersection and thus, was hit by the semi truck. Indiana State Police officials also say the cyclist did not have any reflectors or lights on his bike. They believe Cook did not see or hear the truck possibly because he was listening to music and has a previous injury to one of his eyes.

While cycling is known to have health benefits, unfortunately, there are risks. As described by www.bicycleuniverse.info, bicyclists can be involved in many different accidents that lead to injuries. And, not surprisingly, accidents with moving motor vehicles including semi trucks is one of the biggest categories making up 11% of bicycle crashes.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK HITS INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ON BIKE IN HENDRICKS COUNTY" »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police are looking into an unusual Car Accident that happened in Marion County. Indiana investigators say a car crashed into a home early Tuesday. The 23-year old driver was taken to an Indianapolis hospital in critical condition. No word if those injuries are Work Comp related.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Car Crashes into Home as Man Sleeps on Couch," the car drove off the road, hit Donald Sumpter's mailbox and then crashed into his house. Sumpter was not hurt but did find the driver was severely injured. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers are trying to determine what caused this vehicle accident.

Surprisingly, 23-year old drivers do appear to be involved in many vehicle crashes. According to the United States Census Bureau, in 2008, licensed 23-year old drivers were involved in 3,535 auto accidents. That's the most for any age group between 16 and 24 years old.

Continue reading "CAR CRASHES INTO INDIANAPOLIS HOME SEVERELY INJURING INDIANA DRIVER" »

An Indiana man is dead after an Auto Collision with a Semi Truck in Georgia. 30-year old Brent Burns was from Greenwood and was apparently traveling to Florida with his family at the time of the vehicle accident. The crash happened Friday night in Macon, Georgia on Interstate I-475 South. No word if the truck driver suffered any Work Comp related injuries.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Greenwood Family Involved in Fatal Crash on a Georgia Interstate," Burns was traveling with his wife and their two young children when a semi truck jack-knifed and the car carrying the Johnson County, Indiana family became trapped underneath the truck's trailer. Investigators say Burns was killed instantly. His wife is listed in stable condition, and their little children have been released from the hospital.

Unfortunately, large trucks and passenger cars are involved in hundreds of deadly accidents a year throughout the country including in Indiana. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009, large trucks were involved in more than 900 deadly crashes with passenger cars.

Continue reading "GREENWOOD, INDIANA MAN KILLED IN DEADLY VEHICLE CRASH WITH SEMI TRUCK" »

Indianapolis police are looking to a Multi Vehicle Crash on Indianapolis's northeast side that left several Indiana people with injuries. Medics took one victim to an Indianapolis hospital in critical condition. This auto accident happened early Thursday morning at the 52nd Street and Allisonville Road intersection in Marion County. It appears at least two SUV's were involved in this vehicle collision. No word if any of the victims suffered work comp related injuries.

As reported by www.wishtv.com in the article, "Serious Crash Closes 52nd Street at Allisonville Road," a total of three people were taken to local Indiana hospitals with injuries. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department's spokesperson says one of the SUV drivers admitted to drinking alcohol earlier this morning. Indiana investigators say that driver was going north on Allisonville Road when he crossed into oncoming traffic and hit another SUV that was going south.

Drinking and driving is well-known as a potentially deadly combination. As reported by www.alcoholalert.com, in Indiana in 2008, there were 250 drinking and driving fatalities that were alcohol related.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS VEHICLE CRASH LEAVES SEVERAL INDIANA PEOPLE WITH INJURIES" »

The Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration is looking into Wednesday's apparent Work Comp related death of a Hendricks County man at Royal Food Products on Indianapolis's Near Eastside. 50-year old Alan Beaty was a 30-year employee at the plant who died when the forklift he was driving plunged almost 15 feet through the floor and landed in the basement.

As described in the Indy Star article, "Officials to Investigate Forklift Operator's Death," Beaty's forklift weighed about 8,000 pounds as the employee was transporting vegetable oil. The Indianapolis Fire Department's spokesperson says large debris fell on top of the victim after he fell through the floor. The Marion County coroner's office is investigating to pinpoint the exact cause of this on the job death.

The Indianapolis plant is closed while repairs are made to the roughly 30-foot hole the deadly crash created. Meanwhile, the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration will look into the fatal accident. Royal Food Products' president told Indiana investigators Beaty was operating the forklift in an area that clearly showed it could not handle heavy machinery because the floor was not reinforced to hold a large amount of weight.

This apparent Work Comp related death leaves Beaty's children without a father. The longtime employee leaves behind two sons and a daughter, all in their 20's.

Unfortunately, operating a forklift is dangerous and at times, can be deadly. According to www.toolboxtopics.com, the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration estimates forklifts cause about 85 deadly accidents a year. OSHA also found forklifts are involved in about 35,000 accidents a year that cause a serious injury.

Continue reading "INDIANA OFFICIALS INVESTIGATING ON THE JOB DEATH OF HENDRICKS COUNTY MAN" »

A 50-year old Indiana worker is dead after an apparent Work Comp related accident at Royal Food Products on Indianapolis's southeast side. Indianapolis Fire Department officials say the longtime employee was operating a forklift that fell almost 15 feet through a concrete floor and landed in the basement.

As reported by www.theindychannel.com in "Worker Killed in Business Floor Collapse," fellow employees told Indianapolis investigators that the victim was transporting mayonnaise and vegetable oil from a warehouse and appeared to have ended up in an area where the floor was not able to hold the forklift's weight. The building is old and has sections that are marked as capable of handling heavy machinery. The employee was apparently not in that area.

Indiana investigators are looking into this on the job fatal accident. Indianapolis rescue crews are expected to need several hours to reach the worker's body which is underneath rubble.

Work Comp injuries refer to injuries an employee suffers while in the course and scope of their employment. Those injuries run the gamut from a minor hurt to, unfortunately, death. And dozens of Indiana workers die each year while on the job. According to the Indiana Department of Labor's preliminary data, in 2009, 123 workers were killed while on the job. While even one death is one too many, it is important to note that number is the lowest on record for Indiana.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS WORKER KILLED ON THE JOB AFTER FORKLIFT ACCIDENT ON INDIANAPOLIS'S SOUTHEAST SIDE" »

Indiana is taking action in the Death of a University of Notre Dame student. The Indiana Department of Labor's Commissioner said the South Bend school did not have safe working conditions when 20-year old Declan Sullivan died while filming football practice back in October. Unsafe working conditions can lead to Work Comp injuries and even death.

Thus, the state of Indiana is fining Notre Dame $77,500 for several violations. As reported by www.wthr.com in the article, "Report: University of Notre Dame at Fault in Fatal Lift Accident, " those errors include not properly training Sullivan who was a junior film student from Illinois and not inspecting the hydraulic lift on a regular basis. Sullivan was killed after the lift he was on fell in very windy conditions.

It is not clear if Sullivan's family is seeking a lawsuit against Notre Dame. But Indiana's ruling that Notre Dame was at fault could have big implications if there is a lawsuit.

Experienced Indiana Work Comp Lawyers are well-versed in work comp situations. And unfortunately, some of those Workers' Compensation situations involve a death. According to the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA, every day 15 American workers die while on the job.

Continue reading "UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME FINED FOR UNSAFE WORKING CONDITIONS LEADING TO ILLINOIS STUDENT DEATH" »

Indiana skateboarders receive a warning after a Pickup Truck Crashes into a Sulphur Springs teen and kills him. 17-year old Riley Henry was skateboarding Friday night in Middletown when he was struck by the truck. Middletown is about an hour northeast of Indianapolis. No word if the truck driver suffered any work comp injuries.

According to www.theindychannel.com article, "Police Identify Teen Killed on Skateboard," Henry County's sheriff says the victim was going in the direction of traffic when the truck crashed into him. He went on to warn skateboarders of the dangers that come with skateboarding on roads.

Skateboarding is an increasingly popular activity, but it does carry a risk of injury or death especially when coupled with vehicles. As reported by www.concretedisciples.com, in 2006, 27 skateboarders were struck and killed by vehicles.

Continue reading "INDIANA TEEN KILLED AFTER HIT BY PICKUP TRUCK IN HENRY COUNTY" »

A 20-year old Indiana man will spend decades behind bars after killing a woman who was working at an Indianapolis Village Pantry. 20-year old Bruch Aldrich pleaded guilty for his part in the 2009 fatal robbery which resulted in the murder of a 62-year old employee.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Accused Gunman Pleads Guilty to 2009 Village Pantry Murder," the Village Pantry employee was on the job when the robbery and shooting happened. The store is located on Indianapolis's south side in Marion County. Under the terms of the plea deal, Aldrich will receive a 65 year sentence.

You might not think a murder is a work comp injury, but in fact, it can be and is seemingly one of the most tragic. The terms "Work comp" or "Workers' Compensation" deal with an injury that occurs when a person is in the course and scope of their employment. And unfortunately, a murder can be an injury, albeit the most extreme, that happens when a person is on the job. As reported by the Indiana Department of Labor, 17 Indiana workers were killed by a gunshot while on the job in 2009. That number does include 7 self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

Continue reading "INDIANA MAN PLEADS GUILTY IN MURDER OF INDIANAPOLIS STORE EMPLOYEE" »

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers are investigating a shooting that resulted in a Work Comp injury in Indianapolis. A music store worker was shot in the leg while on the job during a robbery attempt at Indianapolis's Naptown Music on Monday.

As reported by www.Fox59.com in the article, "Music Store Employee Shot During Robbery," two men tried to rob the Indianapolis store. Indiana investigators say after the suspects demanded money, the employee wrestled with one of them. That's when shots were fired and one bullet apparently hit the worker in his thigh. Indianapolis medics took the employee to the hospital for treatment for his personal injury. Indianapolis police are now looking for a vehicle possibly tied to the robbers.

Fortunately, the worker did not suffer a life-threatening work comp injury, but he is not alone among Indiana employees. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, more than 400 Indiana workers were victims of an assault or violent act in the workplace since 1992. And in 2009, research found that one in every 6 workplace death in Indiana was connected to assaults and violent acts.

Continue reading "INDIANA MUSIC STORE WORKER SHOT WHILE ON THE JOB IN INDIANAPOLIS" »

A tragic Auto Accident involving a Semi Truck on Indianapolis's westside leaves an Indiana teen dead. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers say 13-year old Justice Holifield died when the car she was riding in crashed into a semi trailer truck Friday afternoon. Two other young people, a 12-year old and another 13-year old, were hurt.

Holifield was a student at Indianapolis's Harshman Middle School. Her school band teacher was apparently driving the car. According to the Indy Star article, "Girl, 13, Dies in Crash of Teacher's Car," that car turned onto the United States Interstate 70 East on ramp when it was hit by the truck. No word which driver was at fault or if the truck driver, a 58-year old from Avon, suffered any work comp injuries.

Indiana investigators say the students and their teacher were going to a store to buy things for a school event. It's not clear if Indianapolis Public Schools have a policy on teachers driving students in their own cars or trucks.

Unfortunately, the statistics involving passenger cars colliding into trucks aren't good. As reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in Indiana in 2009, 23 fatalities occurred in vehicle crashes involving a passenger car and a large truck. It is interesting to note that more deaths occurred in accidents involving a passenger car and another passenger car. Twenty-five people died in those crashes. The study also found that passenger cars versus light trucks were the most deadly. Seventy-nine deaths happened in those accidents.

Continue reading "INDIANA TEEN KILLED IN VEHICLE CRASH WITH SEMI TRUCK ON INDIANAPOLIS'S WESTSIDE" »

Two Indianapolis Metropolitan Police officers are recovering after they were hurt while chasing a suspect on Indianapolis's east side. Both officers were on the job so we are awaiting word on any possible work comp related injuries.

According to www.theindychannel.com's "Two Officers Injured in Chase," one of the injured Indianapolis police officers was hurt after a suspect's car struck him. The second Indianapolis police officer was injured after hitting a barbed-wire fence while running after the suspect.

Indiana investigators say this chase all started when officers received a report of someone trying to use a forged check and then that someone tried to get away in a car. Eventually, the fleeing suspect got into an SUV and crashed the vehicle into a parked car. He was arrested.

Police officers in Indiana and throughout the world can suffer numerous injuries while on the job and that are work comp related. An Australian study on Injury Statistics for Police Officers found that hand and fingers and back injuries are the most common.

Continue reading " INDIANAPOLIS POLICE OFFICER HURT AFTER BEING HIT BY CAR ON INDIANAPOLIS'S EAST SIDE" »

Indiana investigators were busy in Boone County after a man crashed his truck into a tree. This truck accident happened Wednesday along Indiana State Road 39.

Boone County Sheriff's Department officials say 52-year old John Downing died after medics took him to Witham Hospital. According to an article on www.theindychannel.com entitled, "Man Killed in Crash," Indiana investigators believe Downing may have suffered some sort of medical problem which caused him to crash. They say the victim's truck swerved off Indiana State Road 39 and traveled more than a thousand feet before crashing into a tree.

Cases involving auto accidents and property and body injury or death can have complicated insurance issues.

Continue reading "INDIANA MAN KILLED IN HEAD-ON TRUCK ACCIDENT IN BOONE COUNTY" »

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is facing a lawsuit from an Indiana woman who claims she was hurt in a car crash. 58-year old Andrea Smith says she suffered injuries when a robbery suspect crashed into her car during a chase with Indianapolis police. Smith claims she subsequently lost her job after suffering from "severe permanent injuries."

This all happened on April 20, 2010 on Indianapolis's northside. The victim was driving her car westbound when she was hit head-on by a van police were chasing. The auto accident was deadly for one of the passengers in the van.

As reported in the IndyStar article, "Injured Motorist Sues Police Over Chase Crash," Smith's lawsuit charges three Indianapolis police officers and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department's Chief with negligence.

Hopefully, Smith collected vital pieces of information following this accident which could potentially help her lawsuit. Those items include police reports, accident photos, witness statements, driving records and medical records. Auto accident victims could be entitled to various forms of compensation. And if a victim was driving while on the job, work comp issues could also be involved.

Continue reading "INDIANA CAR CRASH VICTIM SUING INDIANAPOLIS POLICE FOR HER INJURIES" »

Police throughout Indiana were involved in apprehending a Michigan City man after he fired gun shots, hitting a semi truck and eventually crashed his car. Indiana police say 25-year old Aaron Di Shon Windom of Laporte County is the driver of that car. He was taken to a Crawfordsville hospital suffering from hypothermia. No word if the tractor trailer driver suffered any work comp injuries.

According to an article about this car crash on www.theindychannel.com entitled, "Police: Road Rage Suspect Fires Shots During Chase," a Fountain County sheriff's deputy says he saw the suspect in a stolen car driving westbound on Interstate 74 in Montgomery County. Indiana State troopers say a chase began when the deputy and a Crawfordsville police officer began to follow the automobile. During the car chase, the driver fired gun shots, hitting a semi truck. Eventually, Indiana police caught Windom after he lost control of his car causing it to crash. Police say he got out of his car and tried, unsuccessfully, to run away.

The driver of this stolen car is wanted in Lake and Laporte countie.

While Windom has his hands full with legal concerns, the truck driver might need an attorney as well if he was hurt during this incident and suffered work comp injuries. "Work Comp" refers to laws focused on an injury that is sustained while one is on the job. And vehicle accidents can cause work comp injuries. According to the Indiana Department of Labor, in 2005, 26,900 work-related injuries and illnesses caused a worker to miss work, and 5.2% were caused by transportation accidents.

Continue reading "LAPORTE COUNTY MAN FACES CHARGES IN SEVERAL INDIANA COUNTIES AFTER CAR CRASH" »

Marion County's west side was the scene of a semi truck accident Monday night. Indianapolis police say the truck jack-knifed on US Interstate 465 near US Interstate 70. According to Indiana investigators, the truck driver says his truck slid after it was cut off by another vehicle. That caused the semi's tank to burst. Fortunately, Indianapolis firefighters say the tank was not full. The auto accident closed northbound lanes for several hours. Work comp issues could be forthcoming.

According to WTHR.com's article, "Boy Killed in Kokomo Crash; Dozens of Slide-offs Reported," this semi truck accident was one of several accidents Monday. In addition, one woman was killed in Anderson. Madison County investigators say the Indiana mother died after she lost control of her car and hit an oncoming SUV. Fortunately, Anderson police say her children were in car seats and were not badly hurt.

Car seats and child booster seats are vital in protecting children in vehicles. As reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, child restraints saved about 9,000 lives from 1975-2008. The NHTSA also finds that auto crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 3-14 years old.

Continue reading "SEMI TRUCK ACCIDENT IN INDIANAPOLIS AMONG MANY AUTO CRASHES DUE TO WEATHER" »

A high-risk of injury and other work comp issues are factors Careercast.com examined to determine its list of the Worst Jobs in America in 2011. Most of these jobs can be found right here in Indiana. What's the #1 worst job (in terms of safety, stress, income, etc.)? You might be surprised to learn it's not Construction Worker. Many people do associate that job with serious accidents involving heavy machinery and vehicles, falling objects, and slip and fall accidents from roofs and scaffolding. But Indianapolis construction workers only have the tenth worst job. That's because accidents aren't the only criteria used to determine the worst jobs. The report ranked professions based on 5 elements: Work Environment, Physical Demands, Outlook, Income and Stress.

So Hoosiers, here's that list:

1. Roustabout
2. Ironworker
3. Lumberjack
4. Roofer
5. Taxi driver
6. Emergency Medical Technician
7. Welder
8. Painter
9. Meter Reader
10. Construction Worker

Roustabouts face high-risk of injury, long shifts, hostile environments, low pay and are away from their loved ones for weeks at a time. These factors combined to make Roustabouts the worst job of 2011.

Of course, even if your job isn't considered one of the worst or most injury-prone, you could still be hurt at work. Indianapolis-area work accident lawyers may offer help in the unfortunate case that this happens to you. Be sure to consult with an Indiana work comp attorney before filing a workers' compensation claim to ensure the best outcome.

Continue reading "DO INDIANA WORKERS HAVE ONE OF THE MOST INJURY-PRONE JOBS IN AMERICA?" »

Two Indiana teens are under arrest after a car accident Sunday night in Marion County involving a stolen car and Indianapolis police officers who were on the job. No word if any of the officers suffered any work comp injuries.

Indianapolis police say they were on the lookout for a stolen car when a chase began on Indianapolis's north side. They say an 18-year old man and a 14-year old boy carjacked the car in question after attacking a 24-year old woman in a Walmart parking lot. The Indianapolis police officers believed they spotted the stolen car around midnight when the suspects returned to that parking lot. However, when they attempted to pull the driver over, the suspect sped off. A chase ensued, and the driver subsequently crashed into an Indianapolis police squad car ending the chase. The suspects were then arrested.

While carjackings are scary and dangerous, fortunately, they are not the most common way cars are stolen. According to the Insurance Information Institute, carjackings account for only 3 percent of all motor vehicle thefts. They do, however, occur most frequently in urban areas.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS POLICE INVOLVED IN CAR CRASH WHILE ON THE JOB IN MARION COUNTY" »

An Indiana motorcyclist is dead after he collided with an Evansville school bus. The bus driver was on the job with about 30 students on board. The fatal accident happened Thursday afternoon on Evansville's westside. The motorcyclist was identified as 38-year old Jamie Jones of Evansville. No word if the school bus driver suffered any work comp injuries.

According to Vanderburgh County sheriff's officials, three vehicles were involved. They say Jones's motorcycle hit the back of a pickup truck and then swerved into the opposite lane and hit the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation bus head-on. None of the Indiana high school students were hurt. The truck driver suffered a shoulder injury.

Indiana investigators say Jones was wearing a helmet. However, deadly motorcycle accidents happen all too often. According to Webbikeworld.com, the NHTSA's statistics show there were more than 4000 fatal motorcycle accidents in 2004 -- a number that has risen every year since 1997.

Continue reading "INDIANA MAN KILLED IN CRASH WITH EVANSVILLE SCHOOL BUS DRIVER ON THE JOB" »

An Indianapolis airport worker is out of a job and a work comp lawsuit could be in the making after an alleged beating of a co-worker. Indianapolis Airport police say 59-year old Michael Merriman was arrested Tuesday after the attack. The airport screener from Mooresville has since been released from the Marion County jail but is charged with battery causing injury.

The victim, 39-year old Brian Hale from Indianapolis, is an employee of a gift shop inside the Indianapolis International Airport. He claims he parked his car on the 4th floor of the garage when Merriman parked his pick-up truck behind him. Hale told Indianapolis police Merriman then exited his truck and told Hale, " You'll never do that to me again." Indianapolis Airport police report Merriman then put the victim in a headlock and punched him several times.

Following this apparent on the job attack, TSA officials fired the Mooresville man.

Continue reading "INDIANAPOLIS AIRPORT WORKER ALLEGEDLY BEATEN ON THE JOB BY FELLOW INDIANA AIRPORT EMPLOYEE" »

Indiana officials charged with investigating worker safety and work comp issues are looking into the death of an Indiana man. South Bend's Michael Gorzkiewicz was crushed to death Monday by a forklift while working at Steel Warehouse's plant in South Bend. The St. Joseph County deputy coroner says the 47-year old died of blunt force trauma to the chest.

Indiana's Occupational Health and Safety Administration is expected to spent several weeks investigating this fatal employee accident. The forklift has been impounded, according to South Bend police. So far, reports indicate the forklift was parked on an inclined ramp at the plant and began to roll backward. Gorzkiewicz is said to have been between the lift and a truck and was thus, crushed when the lift gave way.

The South Bend victim leaves behind his wife, three children and two stepchildren.

Unfortunately, work-related fatalities happen all too often. According to the Indiana Department of Labor's 2007 work injury and work comp statistics, 92 work-related deaths were reported. And the number of injuries is staggering -- 62,326 Hoosiers filed reports claiming missing at least one or more days of work.

Continue reading "INDIANA WORKER CRUSHED TO DEATH BY FORKLIFT WHILE ON THE JOB IN SOUTH BEND" »

The Howard County Sheriff's Department in Central Indiana is reporting that a deputy is recovering after his cruiser was struck head-on by a pickup truck on U. S. 31. The accident reportedly occurred south of United States Road 35 when James Smith of Dixon, Kentucky, hit a patch of black ice and lost control of his truck and moved across lanes into the path of Deputy Keith Chesshir's squad car, striking it on the driver's side door.

EMTs transferred both individuals to Saint Joseph Hospital in Central Indiana.

Continue reading "INDIANA SHERIFF INJURED IN HEAD ON AUTO ACCIDENT" »

Two employees of a Noblesville company escape serious injury following the collapse of the roof at their Circle City Auto Parts store. The weight of ice and snow cause the collapse and sent emergency crews to the building, located on Herriman Boulevard just after 10:00 am on Friday morning.

Two employees of the company were said to be inside when the roof gave way; however, no injuries were reported as a result of the structural failure.

The City of Noblesville Planning and Engineering Department was being called in to inspect the structure once firefighters secured the property.

Continue reading "FIREFIGHTERS ARE CALLED TO SECURE A NOBLESVILLE INDIANA BUILDING WHEN ROOF COLLAPSES" »