The I-4 Ultimate transportation project in Florida claimed its fourth life on a recent Monday. The surviving family members of the victim will likely pursue financial relief through the state-regulated workers’ compensation system. All construction activities were suspended after the tragic incident to allow investigators to document the cause of the accident.
A preliminary incident report provides only limited details. It indicates that a 59-year-old man suffered a fatal blow when an iron pipe struck him. The circumstances that led to the accident are yet to be determined. Authorities say the pipe was 20 feet long, with an 18-inch diameter.
Work on the I-4 Ultimate project commenced in 2015, and the following year claimed the lives of two workers. In Feb. 2016, a 34-year-old worker was killed when a truck ran over him, and a 56-year-old man died in Dec. 2016 after a piece of heavy steel struck him. Reportedly, no fatalities occurred in 2017, but a 59-year-old worker died in March 2018 after he too received a fatal blow by metal equipment.
Surviving family members of workers who lose their lives in work-related accidents in Florida are typically eligible for survivors’ benefits through the workers’ compensation insurance system. In most cases, the program provides compensation to cover the expenses related to end-of-life arrangements. Furthermore, a financial package might form part of the benefits to cover lost income and help families to cope with day-to-day living expenses. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the legal and administrative steps of the benefits claims process.