Farmers fill a valuable need in our society, growing the crops and livestock that will eventually make its way to grocery stores or produce markets throughout the country. As a farmer, you know how hard farm work is, requiring grueling, long hours in all types of weather. You need to operate heavy machinery, like tractors, front-end loaders and plows. You often must handle toxic chemicals to keep your animals and crops healthy.

For this reason, injuries to farm workers are not uncommon and many people may not realize that a farm worker injury can lead to devastating consequences.

Common Farm Worker Accidents

Whether you work on a farm that raises cattle, sheep, poultry or crops, you know that the work can be extremely dangerous. Some of the most common accidents that occur on farms that lead to farm worker injury include:

• Accidents involving heavy machinery
• Airborne illnesses contracted from farm animals
• Exposure to toxic chemicals
• Injury from power tools

These accidents can lead to broken bones, strains, sprains and even repetitive stress injuries. There have been farm workers who have lost limbs as well in some of these accidents. In some cases, the injuries were so severe, the farm worker was unable to return to work or were required to undergo extensive medical treatment.

Compensation for Farm Worker Injuries

Pennsylvania is one of only a few states that allows an injured farm worker to collect worker compensation, but the law limits who is eligible. According to the law, the farmer must pay one agricultural worker $1,200 or more in wages or must furnish employment to one agricultural laborer for 30 days or more in a calendar year. Unfortunately, most farms are small and many employ day laborers, meaning employees are not covered under worker compensation. However, if your injury may have been caused by a third-party, such as an injury caused by malfunctioning equipment or negligence, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a farm accident, contact Lundy Law today to learn what rights you may have. Hiring an attorney does not necessarily mean you plan to file a lawsuit. If you qualify for workers’ comp, you may be unable to file suit as Pennsylvania law does not permit lawsuits for work injuries in most cases. However, if you do not have coverage, Lundy Law can help you through the process, review your claim and determine what rights you may have. Contact us by filling out the simple form online or giving us a call at 1-800-Lundy Law.