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Farming is an essential part of the American economy and a way of life for many families in Central NY, and across the country. However, the agricultural industry is also one of the most dangerous, with numerous potential hazards that can lead to serious accidents and injuries. From heavy machinery and toxic chemicals to unpredictable livestock and hazardous working conditions, farmers face a wide range of risks every day.
Whether you’re a farmer, a farmworker, or someone who loves someone in the agricultural industry, it’s essential to understand the potential dangers and take steps to prevent accidents from occurring. And if the unthinkable does happen, know that our compassionate and knowledgeable Syracuse personal injury attorneys at Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC will be ready to stand up and fight for you.
Common Causes of Farming Accidents
Farming accidents often stem from two main categories: machinery-related incidents and slips, trips, and falls. Both types of accidents can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities, making it crucial for farmers and farmworkers to prioritize safety and take proactive steps to prevent these incidents from occurring.
Machinery Mishaps
Farming equipment, such as tractors, combines, balers, and augers, is essential for modern agriculture but can pose significant risks when not properly maintained or operated. Machinery accidents can include rollovers, collisions, entanglements, crushing injuries, and power take-off (PTO) incidents. To prevent these accidents, it’s crucial to:
- Provide thorough training on the safe operation and maintenance of all machinery
- Perform regular inspections and maintenance to identify and address potential hazards
- Ensure that all safety guards, shields, and rollover protection structures (ROPS) are in place and in good condition
- Follow proper safety protocols, such as shutting off machinery before clearing jams or performing maintenance and wearing close-fitting clothing to avoid entanglements
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are another common cause of farming accidents. These incidents can occur due to uneven terrain, wet or slippery surfaces, cluttered workspaces, or inadequate lighting. To minimize the risk of slips, trips, and falls, farmers should:
- Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of tripping hazards
- Ensure that all walking surfaces, including stairs and ladders, are in good condition and equipped with proper handrails or guardrails
- Provide adequate lighting in all work areas, including barns, sheds, and outdoor spaces
- Use slip-resistant footwear and keep floors dry and free of spills or debris
- Install non-slip surfaces or mats in areas prone to wetness or slipperiness
Preventing Farming Accidents
Vigilant equipment maintenance and comprehensive safety training are key to preventing both machinery-related accidents and slips, trips, and falls on farms. By prioritizing safety and staying proactive, farmers can create a safer working environment for themselves and their employees, reducing the risk of serious injuries or fatalities.
Injured? Contact Our Syracuse & Central New York Farming Injury Lawyers
At Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC, we understand the devastating impact that farming accidents can have on individuals and families throughout Onondaga County and the surrounding counties of Central New York. We know that the thought of taking legal action can be daunting, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of a farming accident. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.
Instead of worrying, give us a call or fill out one of the contact forms on our website. Taking that first step may be the best decision you ever make on your path to recovery and justice.