An article from the Oklahoman, reports that a southern Illinois coal miner was killed when he was struck by a shuttle car that transported coal into the mine. Investigators say that the miner was a section foreman employee. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) had previously fined the miner’s employer $230,000 for past mine violations. The current workplace wrongful death is still under investigation.
The mine will be shut down until the investigation of the miner’s death is completed. The foreman’s death marks the 41st death related to a mining accident for 2010.
From 2006-2007, the MSHA reported 69 deaths and 11, 800 injuries for coal mining and non-metal mining industries. In 2009, the US saw a record low of only 18 coal mining deaths.
Coal mining workplace accidents can create life or death situations for employees who usually spend long hours in constricted conditions given the nature of their jobs. However, the employers of coal mining corporations have a greater duty to ensure that their neglectful actions do not lead to the harm of their workers. In some cases, they fail to adhere to this duty, and people suffer as a result.
The Oklahoma wrongful death attorneys of Maples Law Firm provide competent, skilled legal representation against cases involving corporate negligence. We provide strong legal support at a time when our clients may feel most vulnerable. If you have lost a loved one in a mining accident, or any other work-related accident, call our office today for a free consultation at (405) 705-5050.
