If you’re a farmer or operate a tractor for your job, you put yourself at risk every day. Tractor accidents account for some common work-related injuries and deaths, and you should be prepared to cover all of your legal requirements in case you suffer an injury due to one of these accidents.
In many circumstances, a defect or equipment failure is the cause of a tractor accident. In others, third parties might be at fault. Regardless of the situation, there are a number of options available for you to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Defective equipment
Manufacturers must abide by stringent safety standards when producing tractors, including certain features that protect the operator in case of a rollover. The U.S. Department of Labor requires tractors to be equipped with rollover protective structures, or ROPS, when employees use them. This is the responsibility of the employer, so if the company you work for did not provide adequate safety measures, you may be able to seek compensation from the employer or its insurance company. If you experience a tractor accident and your employer did not provide these safety measures, make sure you include that in your report.
Traffic-related tractor accident
Accidents on the road caused by tractors are somewhat common, particularly in rural areas. If you’ve been in one of these accidents, it’s important you know the federal, state and local traffic laws for agricultural equipment. This may include using the equipment for agricultural purposes only, such as transporting between farms or to delivery points. There are also limitations on how far some equipment travels between locations when it is outside of farm property.
As long as it’s legal for them to use the roads, tractors generally have the same rights as any other vehicle. Thus, other drivers have an obligation to use safe driving practices when sharing the road with tractors. If they don’t, an accident may result. If you are involved in a tractor accident on a road with another kind of motor vehicle, there are various factors involved – from the insurance coverage of your employer to the car insurance of the driver at fault.
Keep in mind these special regulations for tractors and agriculture vehicles in Pennsylvania. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the experienced legal team at GLS Injury Law.
