In a recent case, personal injury attorney Jim Larsen of GJEL Accident Attorneys successfully negotiated a $1 million settlement for a client who severely injured her hand when it became caught in the teeth of a gasoline-powered wood chipper.
The defendants claimed that the plaintiff had watched her friend operating the machine prior to the time of her injury, that the dangers presented by the chipper were open and obvious, and that she was at fault for allowing her hand to come in contact with the blades of the machine.
After deposing the defendant (the owner of the chipper), Mr. Larsen was able to counter defense claims by showing that the defendant had significantly increased the dangers of the machine by removing safeguards, which allowed the plaintiff’s hand to accidently contact the blades while she was working nearby.
Causes of Wood Chipper Accidents and Injuries
There are various factors that can contribute to wood chipper accidents, often resulting in devastating injuries. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include inadequate training of operators, insufficient safety equipment, failure to follow safety procedures, and defective design or manufacturing of the machine. In some cases, the negligence of the wood chipper’s owner or operator can lead to a personal injury lawsuit. For instance, if the owner failed to provide proper training or maintain the machine, they may be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Types of Injuries Sustained in Wood Chipper Accidents
Due to the high-powered nature of wood chippers, the injuries sustained in accidents involving these machines can be catastrophic. Common injuries include severe lacerations, amputations, crushed limbs, and head or neck trauma. In some cases, these injuries can lead to permanent disability or even death. The physical and emotional toll of these injuries can be immense, often requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Seeking Compensation for Your Wood Chipper Personal Injury
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a wood chipper accident, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who is well-versed in handling wood chipper personal injury lawsuits. They will be able to determine if you have a valid claim and help you navigate the complex legal process. Compensation for these cases may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injuries.
Filing a Wood Chipper Personal Injury Lawsuit
To successfully pursue a wood chipper personal injury lawsuit, your attorney will need to prove that negligence or a defective product was the cause of your injuries. This may involve gathering evidence, consulting with experts, and building a strong case on your behalf. Keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, which means you have a limited time to take legal action after the accident.
Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys for Help Today
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we understand the devastating impact that a wood chipper personal injury can have on your life. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers is dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait any longer to seek justice – time is of the essence. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you through the process of filing a wood chipper personal injury lawsuit.
Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.