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Pennsylvania tree-trimmer killed in workplace accident

On Behalf of | Aug 7, 2013 | Firm News

A tree-trimmer who worked for a subcontractor of an electric utility company was killed on the job on Saturday, July 28, 2013, in Bethlehem. The maintenance occurs there annually in advance of a local music festival. While he was trimming along the towpath underneath the Minsi Trail Bridge, the man struck a high-voltage power line, causing his truck to catch on fire. According to a PPL spokesman, the man either fell or jumped into the Lehigh river.

When a person is killed in a workplace accident, the immediate family may suffer both emotional and financial hardships. This is especially true if the person was a primary breadwinner and had dependent children. In addition to the loss of current and future income, surviving family members may be left to cope with medical and funeral expenses, all of which may add up to thousands of dollars. Surviving family members may be able to collect damages to compensate them for their financial losses. A settlement may cover costs such as medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of companionship and future income.

The company’s insurance provider may offer the family a small or inadequate settlement amount. A qualified Pennsylvania lawyer with a background in workers’ compensation cases may be able to negotiate a fair settlement for family members. A lawyer may have the knowledge, resources and experience to work with the lawyers and insurance representatives.

If the negotiation process is not satisfactory, the lawyer might request a jury trial. Through careful investigation of the accident, the lawyer may build a compelling case on the family’s behalf. If the evidence is strong and well presented, a jury may find in favor of the family and award a significant compensation package.

Source: lehighvalleylive.com, “Tree-trimmer killed in Bethlehem accident remembered as ‘straight shooter’“, Pamela Sroka-Holzmann, July 28, 2013

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