What We Do: Farm Accidents

Farms are the heart of our nation. Farmers have worked hard throughout history in providing the resources we use every day and, in many cases, take for granted. Due to the amount of mental and physical work required with the job, there are dangers that happen within the occupation on a daily basis. At the turn of the 20th century, the industrial revolution had a huge impact on the farming community as work being done by hand, instead was done by machines. Unfortunately, the use of machines did not eliminate injuries that occur during the day-to-day operations of a working farm.

Types of Farm Accidents

According to OHSA, everyday 243 agricultural workers suffer a lost-work-time injury — and five percent of those result in permanent impairment. Farm accidents are not one hundred percent avoidable, and when an unfortunate accident occurs it is our job here at Ball Eggleston to help you in your personal injury claims to make sure you and your family remain supported and protected.

The following are common accidents seen on farms throughout the area:

Vehicle hazards

• Rollovers
• Power take-offs (PTO)
• Incorrect use of equipment
• Clothing entanglement
• Exposure to harsh chemicals

Other potential hazards

• Heat-related illnesses
• Ladders and falls
• Unsanitary conditions
• Equipment/​Machinery

Contributing Factors in Farm Accidents

Each situation is unique and there are a lot of factors to assess when a farm accident occurs. It is important to look at these factors to determine what additional steps can be taken to keep you safe while at work. Some of these factors may be preventable if certain steps are taken to ensure worker safety and caution.

Emergency preparedness- Farms are in rural areas where emergency services cannot be easily reached and leads to a lagging response time when an incident occurs.

• Having an emergency plan in place is highly recommended for the workplace, particularly for working farms. Most small farms that do not have a plan risk losing valuable time when waiting for emergency responders. Knowledge of the nearest hospital, best roads to take, emergency responders to call, and basic first aid supplies on site, etc. are all very beneficial when working on a farm. 

Age of workers- Farm workers vastly differ in age with accidents occurring most between the ages of 15 and 65.

• The CDC reports there are 472,000 youth performing farm work. Their chances of injuries can begin early when they grow up on a farm. Young farmers need guidance when beginning their jobs and taught to exercise caution when working with heavy machinery. Similarly, seniors who have grown up on a farm need to take precautions and be aware of their physical limitations. 

Protective equipment- OSHA says wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) prevent up to 40% of injuries.

• Safety glasses, gloves, masks, foot protections, and hard hats are all different types of personal protective equipment that should be worn on the job to prevent injuries. Not wearing these types of protective equipment puts you at a higher risk for injury.

Equipment and Machinery- A majority of accidents occur because of the misuse of equipment and heavy machinery.

• Make sure your employer gives you proper training for all equipment and you feel comfortable using it. If you don’t, speak up to ask questions and for clarification. Proper maintenance and ongoing training is also crucial to avoiding injuries and keeping farm employees educated. 

Human Error- Human errors contribute to farm accident due to work stress, rushing to get the work done, or some other contributing human error factor.

• It can be dangerous to work in rushed conditions, especially with heavy equipment. Taking your time at work can keep you safe. 

Farmers are highly susceptible to injuries at work because the working conditions can become harsh and unpredictable, and daily they are handling heavy equipment and machinery. Even when steps are taken to keep workers safe and protected, accidents can happen.

Our personal injury services offer you the opportunity to obtain financial assistance in the wake of a farm-related accident. Ball Eggleston PC is equipped with 60+ years of experience. If you or someone you know has experienced a work-related injury on a farm we encourage you to get in contact with us for help. It is our mission to get you the proper care you deserve in the wake of a difficult time.

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Ball Eggleston is located at 201 Main Street, Suite 810 P.O. Box 1535 Lafayette, IN 47902. Contact Ball Eggleston by phone at (765) 742‑9046, by fax at (765) 742‑1966, or by email atinfo@​ball-​law.​com. For additional information, find Ball Eggleston online at ballegg.local. You can also find us on Facebook.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is intended to be general and informational in nature. It is advertising material and is not intended to be, nor is it, legal advice to or for any particular person, case, or circumstance. Each situation is different, and you should consult an attorney if you have any questions about your situation.