Despite efforts over the last several decades to make mining safer for workers, the mining industry remains one of the most dangerous in the United States. According to statistics released by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, coal mining is by far the most dangerous occupation within the mining industry. Eighty-eight U.S. coal mine workers died from 2009 through 2011. During that same three year period, 55 workers died in other types of mines, such as mineral, stone, sand and gravel. So far this year, the mining industry in New York has reported 86 work-related injuries, including one fatality.
Just this month, a 30-year-old shale mine worker in upstate New York was killed when he became entangled in a piece of drilling equipment, according to an Associated Press report. The worker was at boring holes for demolition charges at Northeast Solite Corp. at the time of the accident.
MSHA, an agency in the U.S. Department of Labor, is responsible for administering the Federal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1977, which was created to reduce accidents and fatalities among mine workers, while improving their overall level of health and safety. Along with providing workplace safety rules and regulations for the mining industry, MSHA inspects mining operations, enforces compliance with safety rules, and investigates mining accidents.
Compensation for Injured Miners
When workers are injured in a New York mining accident, they may be eligible for benefits under the New York workers’ compensation system. Those benefits, however, may fall short of fully compensating the worker for the true cost of the injuries suffered. In New York, a worker may also be entitled to pursue compensation through a third-party lawsuit if someone other than his or her direct employer caused or contributed to the accident or circumstances that gave rise to the injury or illness. For example, if a general contractor, property manager or equipment manufacturer played a part in the cause of an accident, then that party could be held liable for your injuries or illness. Because each mining accident presents a unique set of facts and circumstances, the only way to know whether third-party compensation is an option is to consult an experienced New York mining accident attorney.
Talk to Experienced Job Injury Lawyers in New York and New Jersey
If you have been injured in a mining accident, or if you were injured in another type of workplace, contact the New York and New Jersey workplace accident attorneys at Ginarte Gonzalez & Winograd to find out what legal options you may have. With six offices conveniently located in the New York and New Jersey metropolitan area, we have an office near you.
For your free consultation, contact the firm today by calling 888-446-2783 or fill out our online contact form.