St. Louis Industrial Accident Attorneys

Industrial accidents can turn a routine workday into a life-changing event. The unexpected nature of these incidents, which often occur in high-risk environments like factories, construction sites, or manufacturing plants, can leave victims and their families reeling from physical, emotional, and financial fallout.

If you've recently suffered an injury in an industrial accident, our attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel & Kruse can guide you through the compensation process. We offer crucial legal advice and can even represent you in court if needed. With our experience and resources, we can build a compelling case and passionately advocate for your rights. 

Whether it involves negotiating settlements or preparing for litigation, we are prepared to stand by you every step of the way as you seek the justice that you deserve. 

Our team is on your side. Call (314) 350-1900 to schedule a free consultation with a St. Louis industrial accident attorney today.

Examples of Industrial Accidents

Machinery Accidents

Heavy machinery, such as forklifts, cranes, and manufacturing equipment, is indispensable in many industrial settings but also poses significant risks. Accidents involving machinery can result in severe injuries, including amputations, fractures, and crush injuries. These incidents often stem from equipment malfunctions, inadequate maintenance, or insufficient training.

Slip & Fall Accidents

Industrial environments frequently feature slippery surfaces, uneven flooring, or cluttered workspaces, which can lead to slip-and-fall accidents. These falls may cause serious injuries, including head trauma, broken bones, and back injuries. Employers must provide a safe working environment to mitigate these risks.

Chemical Exposure

Exposure to hazardous chemicals is a substantial risk in many industrial settings. Workers may suffer from chemical burns, respiratory issues, or long-term health conditions like cancer. These accidents can occur due to spills, leaks, or inadequate protective gear.

Falling Objects

In industries such as construction or warehousing, falling objects present a considerable hazard. Tools, equipment, or materials can fall from heights, leading to head, neck, or spinal injuries. Implementing proper safety protocols, like wearing helmets and securing loads, is crucial to prevent these accidents.

Electrocution

Electrocution risks are prevalent in industrial settings that involve electrical installations or the use of electrical equipment. Faulty wiring, exposed wires, or improper grounding can result in severe electrocution injuries or fatalities. Adopting stringent safety measures and conducting regular inspections are vital to reducing these risks.

Can I Sue My Employer for an Industrial Accident in Missouri?

In Missouri, the workers' compensation system provides the exclusive remedy for employees injured on the job. In other words, if you are injured in an industrial accident, you typically cannot file a lawsuit against your employer. 

Instead, you would file a workers' compensation claim to seek benefits for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

There are limited exceptions to this rule where you may be able to sue your employer:

• Intentional acts: If your employer intentionally injured you, you may have the right to sue them outside of the workers' compensation system. This is a high standard to meet, as you would need to prove that your employer acted with the deliberate intent to cause harm.
• Third-party liability: If your injury was caused by the negligence of a third party, such as a manufacturer of defective equipment or a subcontractor on a construction site, you may be able to file a lawsuit against that third party. However, you would still need to pursue your workers' compensation claim against your employer.
• Occupational diseases: In some cases, if your injury is an occupational disease that was not covered by workers' compensation, you may be able to sue your employer.

During your free consultation, we can discuss which of these avenues is most appropriate for your situation. Contact us to schedule one today. 

What If I Was at Fault for My Industrial Accident? 

The Missouri workers' compensation system is designed to provide benefits to injured workers, regardless of fault. This means that even if your actions contributed to the accident, you could still file a workers' compensation claim to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

The no-fault nature of workers' compensation is intended to support employees in recovering from their injuries without the added stress of proving fault. 

However, it's important to note that there are certain exceptions where your benefits could be reduced or denied. For instance, if your accident was the result of willful misconduct, intoxication, or a violation of company policies, your claim might be contested. 

Recoverable Damages in a St. Louis Industrial Accident Case

Through a successful workers' compensation claim, you may be entitled to the following types of compensation:

• Medical expenses: This includes all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your injury, such as hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
• Temporary total disability (TTD): If your injury temporarily hinders your ability to work, you might qualify for TTD benefits, usually amounting to two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
• Permanent partial disability (PPD): If your injury leads to a permanent impairment, you may qualify for PPD benefits. These benefits are determined by the severity of your impairment and its effect on your work capacity.
• Permanent total disability (PTD): In rare instances where your injury prevents you from returning to any form of work, you may qualify for permanent total disability (PTD) benefits. These benefits typically amount to two-thirds of your average weekly wage for the duration of your life.
• Death benefits: If a worker dies due to an industrial accident, their dependents may qualify for death benefits, which include funeral expenses and a portion of the deceased worker's wages.

Additional Damages (Limited Circumstances)

In certain exceptional circumstances, such as those outlined in the previous "Can I Sue My Employer for an Industrial Accident in Missouri?" section, you may be able to seek additional damages through a personal injury lawsuit. 

These damages could include:

• Pain and suffering: This compensation addresses the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life resulting from your injury. It can be difficult to quantify but is an important aspect of recovery in severe injury cases.
• Lost earning capacity: If your injury causes a permanent disability that impairs your ability to work and earn an income, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss. This can include both past and future lost wages, considering your age, education, and career trajectory.
• Punitive damages: In rare cases where the responsible party's conduct is deemed grossly negligent or intentionally harmful, the court may award punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

The damages you can recover will depend on the unique facts and circumstances of your accident. Consult an experienced attorney at NGK Law Firm to explore your options to understand the full extent of your potential compensation.

Why Choose Our St. Louis Industrial Accident Attorneys?

When you're facing the aftermath of an industrial accident, you need a legal team that understands the unique challenges you face and has a proven track record of success. 

There are some great reasons to trust NGK Law Firm with your case, including:

• We have handled thousands of cases, gaining extensive experience across a wide range of legal issues.
• Our contingency fee arrangement means you pay nothing upfront and only pay us if we win your case. This way, you can pursue your claim without any financial stress on your part.
• We have recovered over $700 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
• We understand your time is valuable, so we offer virtual consultations, allowing you to discuss your case from the comfort of your home or any location convenient for you.
• We believe in transparency and open communication. That's why we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options with no obligation.

Don't face this challenging time alone. Contact us online or call today to discuss your case with a St. Louis industrial accident attorney and explore your options for compensation.