Most common farm accidents

When people think of dangerous professions, farming might not immediately come to mind. But the truth is that farm accidents are unfortunately common and often have devastating consequences. At Schmidt & Salita Law Team, we are aware of how these accidents destroy individuals and families; we’re here to guide Minnetonka residents through the legal complications afterward.

Common causes of farm accidents

What leads to so many farm accidents? Tractor rollovers top the list, being the leading cause of death for farm workers, as noted by the MDA. While crucial in farming, tractor rollovers become lethal when operated on unstable terrain without adequate rollover protection or proper operator training.

Other common causes are:

• Machinery malfunctions: Equipment like harvesters, balers, and augers are critical for productivity but can cause severe injuries when safety measures fail. Proper training of operators and regular equipment inspections can greatly reduce the chances of accidents.
• Livestock handling: Animals can be unpredictable. Even experienced farmers can face injuries from being kicked, bitten, or crushed. Proper use of restraining equipment, such as cattle chutes and harnesses, can help reduce risks.
• Grain bin and silo accidents: Suffocation from being trapped in grain or exposure to dangerous gases is a persistent threat. Installing proper ventilation systems and using safety harnesses can significantly reduce these risks.
• Chemical exposure: Pesticides, fertilizers, and other dangerous chemicals may cause short-term and long-term health risks when not handled with proper equipment and protection. Exposure can also cause serious illnesses like respiratory conditions or skin disorders.
• Falls: Farms often have elevated work areas like silos or hay lofts, where falls can cause serious injury or death. Regular maintenance of ladders and platforms can further reduce the risk.

Understanding these causes would first be necessary to minimize the risks and have safer farming practices. According to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), agriculture is considered the most hazardous industry in the United States, with farmers 800% more likely to die while working than other professions.

Common farming injuries

Farming injuries vary widely, but some are more frequent than others. These include:

• Crush injuries: Often caused by heavy machinery or being caught between objects. Crush injuries can lead to broken bones, internal bleeding, or even amputation.
• Lacerations and punctures: From sharp tools, equipment, or animal attacks, these injuries can result in significant blood loss or infections. Prompt treatment and proper wound care are essential to avoid complications like tetanus or sepsis.
• Burns: Machinery, chemicals, or electrical systems on the farm can all lead to serious burn injuries.
• Respiratory issues: Long-term exposure to grain dust, toxic gases, or mold can result in chronic respiratory conditions. Workers often experience asthma, bronchitis, or other lung diseases from prolonged exposure.
• Head and spinal injuries: Falls from high places or accidents involving heavy equipment can cause traumatic brain injuries or paralysis.

If you’ve been injured on the job, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately and document the incident as thoroughly as possible.

Tips to avoid farming accidents

Farming may always carry some level of risk, but taking proactive measures can significantly reduce the chances of an accident. Here are some steps you can take:

• Basic measures: Use simple warning signs and labels on hazardous materials to alert workers to potential dangers. When paired with regular safety drills, these warning systems can improve worker awareness.
• Enhanced measures: Install visual or audio alarms to signal immediate dangers, such as moving machinery or chemical spills.
• Physical barriers: Fences, locked storage areas, and protective shields around dangerous equipment and chemicals prevent unauthorized access. These barriers also create safer zones for workers and significantly reduce accident risks.
• Comprehensive solutions: Redesign your farm layout to separate hazardous areas from common workspaces. For example, setting up physical separations similar to how railroad trestles divide train tracks from roads ensures greater safety.
• Invest in training: Ensure that all workers, including seasonal employees, are adequately trained in operating equipment, handling livestock, and recognizing potential hazards.

Additionally, programs like the MDA’s Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS) Rebate Program and Grain Storage Facility Safety Grant program can make safety improvements more affordable.

Need legal help after a farm accident? Contact us today!

At Schmidt & Salita Law Team, we understand the unique challenges Minnetonka farmers face. If you or a loved one has been involved in a farm accident, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step, from assessing your legal options to securing the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (952) 473-4530 for compassionate and knowledgeable support.