Another fatal workplace accident has occurred at the Goodyear Plant located in Danville, Virginia. This is the second employee death in less than two weeks, and the third fatality in eight months.
The latest victim, who had been employed with the company for 18 years, was killed in a “workplace accident” on Tuesday. No details regarding the accident have been released, however, Goodyear has announced the plant will be closed until Friday. Officials from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have been sent to the plant to investigate the accident, however, that investigation could take up to six months to complete.
On March 31st, a 54-year-old employee was also killed at the plant in an industrial accident. The man had 26 years of experience with the company. That accident is also currently under investigation. Just like Tuesday’s incident, there have been no details releases as to what caused the man’s death, however, his family announced that an autopsy ruled he died from asphyxiation.
Last August, a 56-year-old, long-term female employee was killed when she became caught in machine rollers. In February, Goodyear was cited for three violations for the victim’s death, and fined approximately $17,000. The company filed a petition to contest those violations on March 16th, just two weeks before the death of the second victim.
Under federal law, it is an employer’s responsibility to provide a safe workplace for all employees, however, many companies fail to do so. According to national statistics, more than 4,500 workers are killed every year in industrial accidents. Thousands more suffer serious injuries that leave them permanently disabled.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal industrial accident, contact a dedicated Virginia wrongful death attorney to find out what legal options you may have for your family’s pain and loss. Our firm also offers a free wrongful death guide for families who have lost a loved one in an accident. The guide covers topics such as the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim, what types of damages can be pursued, and who can be appointed as personal representative.