One does not need to be a regular reader of this blog to understand how dangerous construction sites can be for workers. This is true whether it is a building construction site or one where roadwork is being done. Individuals who work with heavy construction equipment are especially at risk for sustaining serious injuries while working.

A Pennsylvania construction site became an accident site earlier this month when one of the individuals working there was crushed between two pieces of equipment. The construction site accident left the man's legs seriously injured. As a result, he was taken to an area hospital.

The injuries were apparently incurred when a work truck and front loader somehow pinned the man so that he was stuck between them. At the time of the incident, the man was on the site of a repaving project located on Route 88, in Bethel Park. It is not clear how the accident happened. Because the incident occurred around 10:00 pm, it is possible that the drivers of the machinery were not aware that the worker was there because it was dark and they could not see him.

The worker's prognosis is currently not known. It is highly probable however that he will find it necessary to apply for workers' compensation benefits. Situations such as this one where a worker will need time to recover from an injury incurred while working are precisely what the system is in place to assist with. In addition to providing coverage for medical bills and lost wages, if the worker is permanently disabled, under some circumstances it provides longer term compensation for that as well.

Source: WPXI, "Worker seriously hurt at construction site in Bethel Park," Aug. 7, 2012