As one of the best tree-growing areas in the world, over half of Oregon’s landmass is covered in forest (more than 30 million of the state’s 62 million acres). Oregon’s soils and climate are also idyllic for growing commercially viable trees like the Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine, making Oregon a hotbed for the logging industry.
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) estimates that timber production adds about $12 billion annually to Oregon’s economy and supports over 58,000 jobs. Unfortunately, with a fatal injury rate of more than 30 times the rate for all American workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) refers to logging as “the most dangerous occupation in the United States.” If you or someone you care about has been injured or killed in an Oregon logging accident, Rizk Law may be able to help.
Recovering Compensation for an Oregon Logging Accident Injury or Fatality
Logging is an inherently dangerous industry due to the equipment used, such as chainsaws and logging machines, as well as falling trees and rolling logs. The hazards are even more extreme when you factor in environmental conditions like uneven or unstable terrain, inclement weather, and isolated work sites where health care facilities are not easily accessible.
However, injuries and deaths in the Oregon logging industry are not always due to external conditions. Negligent employers, equipment manufacturers or other parties could be partially, or entirely, at fault for a logging accident that resulted in the death of a loved one or an injury such as:
- Broken bones and complex fractures
- Severe sprains or strains
- Head and brain injuries, including traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe lacerations or puncture wounds
- Internal organ damage or internal bleeding
- Wrist and ankle injuries
- Burn injuries
- Significant scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of limb
- Paralysis
- Crush injuries
- Vision or hearing loss
Regardless of the type of injury suffered in a logging accident, action can be taken against the at-fault parties. Employers who do not train or apply safety standards or do not provide adequate protective equipment can be held liable for accidents and related injuries. However, these cases are often challenging to prove and require the experience of an experienced injury attorney who can thoroughly investigate the incident.
Damages You Could Recover in an Oregon Logging Accident Injury Claim
A Rizk Law personal injury attorney can help you file a worker’s compensation claim, wrongful death claim, or third-party claim against the at-fault party. After a logging accident, it is critical that your rights are protected, and our lawyers will work diligently to recover a fair settlement for your damages, such as for:
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced earning capacity
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Physical therapy
- Funeral costs
- Reconstructive surgery
- In-home rehabilitation
- Disability
- Ambulance ride
- Change in lifestyle
- Loss of companionship
- Emotional distress
- Loss of personal enjoyment
The severity of logging injuries can lead to significant financial losses due to necessary surgeries, extensive treatment, and, in some cases, permanent, lifelong care. Days, weeks, or months of work may also be lost to healing injuries, resulting in substantial lost wages. A Rizk Law logging accident lawyer can review the details of your claim to determine your eligibility for financial compensation for the damages you have suffered.
Lawyers Defending Oregon Logging Accident Injury Victims and Their Families
When working in the Oregon logging industry, safety is paramount. Logging accidents can cause fatal or life-threatening injuries, and when employers, equipment manufacturers, or other parties are negligent, workers and their families can suffer extreme losses.
By partnering with a Rizk Law personal injury lawyer, you can have an experienced legal professional on your side to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the injury claim process. For a free review of your Oregon logging accident injury case, call (503) 245-5677 or submit a completed contact form to schedule an appointment today.