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October 29, 2024
Dodge County, Minnesota Worker Dies in Workplace Crushing Accident
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On April 30, a tragic accident claimed the life of a 63-year-old worker from Con-Tech Manufacturing, Inc. in Dodge County, Minnesota. Teofilo Gonzales, a dedicated employee of over ten years from Brownsdale, died after being crushed by a 5,000-pound cement mixer drum.
The Dodge County Sheriff’s Department reported that Gonzales was working to cut a crossbeam support on a dolly holding the massive drum when the dolly failed, causing the drum to fall on him. In a courageous effort, his coworkers used forklifts to lift the drum off him and began CPR. Paramedics from Dodge Center Ambulance continued resuscitation efforts, but sadly, Gonzales was pronounced dead at 10:29 a.m.
The Minnesota Office of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), assisted by the Southeastern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, has launched an investigation. OSHA’s Communication Director, James Honerman, stated they will assess the work area for potential safety hazards and examine whether any OSHA standards were violated.
Con-Tech Manufacturing, a concrete manufacturing company specializing in concrete mixers and related equipment, has been in business for over 25 years. OSHA’s records show the last complaint against the company was filed in 2020 for a serious safety violation, which initially resulted in a $7,000 penalty.
About crushing accident injuries in the workplace
Crushing accidents like this one are unfortunately common in industries where heavy machinery is prevalent. Crush injuries occur when excessive force is applied to a body part, typically when caught between two heavy objects. Causes of such incidents range from improper machine use and equipment malfunctions to slips, trips, and falls.
Immediate medical care is crucial following a crush injury. First-aid measures include:
- Stopping the bleeding by applying pressure and covering the area.
- Elevating the affected area above the heart, if possible.
- Immobilizing the injury to prevent further damage, especially if there are suspected injuries to the head, neck, or spine.
- Seeking professional medical help immediately.
Common injuries from crushing accidents include bleeding, broken bones, open wounds, infections, nerve damage, and chronic pain. These injuries may lead to long-term physical, emotional, and financial hardships.
How a crushing injury lawyer can help
Workers injured on the job are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which cover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation programs, and death benefits for surviving family members. In cases where a third party’s actions contributed to the accident, additional claims may be possible.
A trusted workers’ compensation attorney can help navigate the process to maximize the benefits available to you. With strict timelines, such as the (typically) 120-day window to report an injury, a knowledgeable lawyer will ensure all procedures are followed and advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Workers’ compensation lawyers for crushing accident injuries and deaths
The experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Pond Lehocky Giordano understand the complexities and challenges of crush injury cases. If you or a loved one has been injured in a workplace accident, our team is here to support you.
If you’ve experienced a work injury, Pond Lehocky Giordano is here to help. For a free legal consultation, call us at 1-800-568-7500 or contact us online today.
