4 June 2020
 Categories: , Blog

If you work on a farm and you're explaining to a non-farmer the hazards you face, they might be surprised when you explain that a farm can be quite explosive. Most grains can catch on fire if they're stored in a silo with a moisture content over 15% because the grains will overheat. If you work on a farm that catches on fire or explodes due to the negligence of your employer, you may be entitled to compensation for your burn injuries.

Exploding Silos

The most distinct hazard you may encounter while working on a farm is an exploding grain bin. This is because:

• The grain dust is highly flammable
• Any spark, such as a tossed cigarette, can cause the grain bin to ignite
• Farm equipment can become very hot and cause overheating
• Your employer may use defective farm equipment
• The dust bin might not be properly ventilated

After a fire or explosion, you will need the help of an attorney who has experience with farm accidents. They will be able to investigate the exact circumstances that lead to the incident and reconstruct the accident with the help of expert witnesses.

Other Types of Accidents

You may suffer from burns due to several other possible accidents, including:

• Improper use of fuels
• An electrical short in a piece of equipment
• Contact with a hazardous chemical that causes burns

Any fire or explosion incident can lead to serious burns, and you should always speak to an attorney after an accident, especially if your employer is not required to carry workers' compensation insurance. In some states, an employer who has few employees, with the exact number varying from state-to-state, may forgo workers' compensation insurance.

You may be forced to sue your employer directly, or you may file a workers' compensation claim toward your state's uninsured employer's fund. However, this is only available in some states.

What If Your Employer Does Carry Workers' Compensation Insurance?

In some cases, you may simply file a claim and receive compensation for your injuries. However, you may need help from an attorney if:

• The insurance provider denies your claim
• Your employer refuses to report your injuries
• You're concerned about how your workers' compensation claim may affect Social Security Disability benefits

State laws require that you follow a particular set of rules to have your claim accepted. For example, some states require that you see a doctor of the insurer's choice before you may see your preferred doctor. If you're concerned about your claim being denied, always speak with an attorney before filing. Look for a farm accident attorney from a firm like Labine Law Firm.