• 17
  • November
    2011

In tough economic times like these, those who have jobs are likely grateful they do. So are their loved ones who rely on the income earned by such a breadwinner. It helps put food on the table and keep a family sheltered. What happens when that stream of income is erased by personal injury, or worse, death on the job?

The family of a Gaithersburg man is likely wrestling with that question today. The Frederick County Sheriff's office says the 37-year-old construction worker was on the job in New Market on Monday when he was run over by a skid loader, a small, but heavy, machine. They usually can be modified to handle a wide range of tasks.

Major details of what happened in the Monday incident aren't known at the time of this post. According to authorities, it happened about 7:20 in the morning. First responders at the scene reportedly tried to treat the man. He was then evacuated by air ambulance to a hospital in Baltimore. He died just after noon.

Officials say they are investigating the matter as a work-related accident, rather than a criminal matter. Agencies looking into it include the sheriff's office and the office of Maryland Occupational Safety and Health.

News reports say that efforts to get information from other sources haven't been too fruitful. The company for which the man worked was contacted, but refused comment.

One thing to remember about incidents like these is that the options for recovering compensation may be broader than might be first thought. It is wise to consult with an attorney. If someone was negligent, they can be held accountable. All options need to be known and understood.

Source: Gazette.net, "Gaithersburg man dies after work accident in New Market," Margarita Raycheva, Nov. 14, 2011