In many cases where a worker is hurt in the course of his or her employment, the injuries are not considered too serious. In other instances however, they are so serious that they result in death.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2013, fatal workplace accidents actually declined. The preliminary numbers indicate that as compared to 2012 when 4,628 people died while completing a work related task, in 2013, that number was 4,405.

The deaths that were recorded were due to:

• Contact with equipment of objects.
• Violence in the workplace.
• Falls, slips and trips
• Transportation deaths

Of those types of fatal workplace accidents, transportation deaths accounted for the highest number. Though down by 9 percent in 2013, as compared to 2012, a total of 1,923 such incidents were nonetheless recorded. Deaths due to the other types of workplace accidents also decreased.

The reasons behind the decreases are not clear.

Fatal workplace accidents often leave family and loved ones unsure of how they will get by. They may be able to secure some financial help via the workers' compensation system. Initial claims are not always approved which can make the process even more difficult.

In addition, depending on the circumstances surrounding the worker's death, a wrongful death lawsuit could also be appropriate. Such a case could be appropriate when the negligence of another person or entity is to blame for the fatal incident. In either of these situations contacting a lawyer can contribute to securing a positive outcome.

Source: The Chicago Tribune, "U.S. workplace deaths fall 5 percent," Corilyn Shropshire, Sept. 11, 2014