If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries in an agriculture accident in Grand Rapids or across West Michigan due to someone else’s negligence, you may have a personal injury claim. A Michigan farm accident lawyer from our personal injury law firm can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the fair compensation you deserve.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a Farm Accident in Michigan?
Common Types of Farming Industry Accidents in Michigan
Michigan farm workers face serious hazards from heavy machinery, toxic chemicals, livestock, and grain equipment. Leading causes of severe or fatal injuries include vehicle accidents, tractor rollovers, grain auger entanglements, struck-by accidents, falls, grain bin suffocation, and chemical exposures. A personal injury attorney can determine if you have a valid personal injury case.
Common Injuries Sustained in Farm Accidents
Farm accident victims often suffer severe, life-changing injuries, such as bone fractures, amputations, spinal cord injuries (SCIs), or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). They may also experience respiratory harm from chemical exposure and serious burns.
The consequences of such injuries can limit the ability of individuals to work or perform daily activities. They frequently require both immediate and future medical care, accumulating medical bills and costing families a great deal of money.
Who Is Responsible for Farm Accident Injuries?
Determining liability in farm accidents is complex, often involving multiple parties, such as farm machine manufacturers, farmers, farm owners, or agribusiness employers. A thorough investigation by an experienced personal injury lawyer can identify if negligence, failure to follow safety regulations, or failure to provide proper safety equipment or training contributed to your injuries.
Are Farm Workers Covered by Workers’ Compensation in Michigan?
Under the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Act (WDCA), MCL 418.101 et seq., many farm employers must provide benefits. Coverage is generally required if a farm employs at least one person for 35+ hours a week for five straight weeks, or a farm employs three or more people for 35+ hours a week for 13 straight weeks. Smaller farms not meeting these rules may be exempt.
If you are hurt on the job, you may be eligible for benefits covering medical bills, lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation. To file a claim, report your injury to your employer, who will then coordinate with their insurer and the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency.
If non-employer negligence caused your injury—for example, a defective piece of equipment from a manufacturer—you may also have a third-party claim. It is essential to consult a Michigan farm accident attorney to understand your eligibility for workers’ compensation and explore all potential sources of recovery.
Can Injured Victims Recover Compensation for a Farming Injury?
Depending on the circumstances, victims with severe injuries in farming accidents may be able to recover damages. This can include compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost wages, permanent disability, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life. In extreme cases, a wrongful death claim can provide compensation for surviving family members.
What Should I Do If I Suffer a Farming Accident?
After a farming accident, seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. Then, document the accident scene, gather witnesses’ contact information and statements, and report the incident to your employer as required. Preserve any evidence, such as faulty farm equipment. Finally, contact Michigan farming accident lawyers to explore your legal options and protect your rights as a farm worker.
How Can a Michigan Farm Accident Attorney Help Me?
If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed, we can help. With in-depth knowledge and understanding of agricultural law, a Michigan farm accident attorney guides you through the claims process. We prove fault and build a strong case for you. We handle tough negotiations with the insurance company and provide legal representation to seek the financial compensation you deserve. If we are unable to settle your case fairly, we will take it to trial and present it to the court.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Our skilled legal team can provide the services clients need to pursue a fair settlement. In your free consultation, you can expect to discuss how the legal system works and learn how we can provide assistance to help you achieve justice.
(312) 223-1700