Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville Farming Accident Lawyers

Agriculture plays a vital role in Tennessee’s economy. However, despite technological and safety protocols, farming remains one of the most dangerous industries. According to a study from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the agricultural sector is America’s most dangerous labor sector. There were 573 fatalities reported in the year they studied, which is equivalent to 23.1 deaths per 100,000 workers.

Accidents on farms can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. Farm workers deserve a work environment that is as safe as possible. At Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, we understand the unique risks faced by people who work in agriculture in Tennessee. Our Nashville farming accident lawyers at Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC are dedicated to advocating for injured farm workers and their families, and we work hard to obtain the compensation they deserve.

Common Types of Farming Accidents

Farming accidents can occur in various ways and could involve heavy machinery, animals, or hazardous conditions. Farming is inherently dangerous, and operators and workers must exercise due care to guard their own safety.

  • Tractor Accidents – Tractors collisions and rollovers frequently cause tractor-related injuries. Farm operators must ensure safe conditions and adequately maintain the equipment.

  • Machinery Accidents – Combine harvesters and other machinery also contribute to the high rate of farming accidents. If they malfunction, machines can cause severe injuries.

  • Livestock – Livestock can cause injuries through bites, kicks, or crushing. Proper training in handling livestock is crucial to minimizing these risks.

  • Falls – Falls from heights, such as silos, ladders, and barns, are common in farming and can result in serious injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries.

  • Chemical Exposure – Farm workers are often exposed to pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals. Prolonged exposure can cause respiratory, skin, and long-term health problems. Tennessee is required to follow federal standards for chemical safety.

   

Contact Farming Accident Lawyers in Nashville

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What Are the Rights of Injured Farm Workers?

According to the USDA, approximately 63,000 farms operated in Tennessee in 2023. Those farms must ensure that workers are in as safe an environment as possible while doing their jobs. Farm workers injured on the job have specific legal rights and avenues for compensation. Understanding these rights is essential for ensuring that injured parties receive the needed support.

  • Workers’ Compensation – Under Tennessee law, agricultural workers are excluded from the state workers’ compensation system. However, employers of agricultural workers.

  • Safe Workplace – Farm owners must follow OSHA guidelines. Farm operators are liable for an injury that happens because they choose not to follow OSHA guidelines.

  • Third-Party Claims – If the injured worker is unable to file a workers’ compensation claim, they could be entitled to file a lawsuit against the party that harmed them. Third parties who could face potential liability for farm injuries include equipment manufacturers, contractors, or other entities. Pursuing a third-party claim can provide additional compensation beyond what is available through workers’ compensation.

  • Personal Injury Claims – When negligence by another party leads to a farming accident, injured workers may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. This type of claim can seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC

Steps to Take After a Farming Accident

Your safety is always the primary concern following an accident. You should immediately seek emergency care before dealing with the legal considerations. The actions taken immediately following a farming accident can significantly impact the outcome of any legal claims. Here are crucial steps to follow:

  • Seek Medical Attention 1

    Your health is the most critical consideration following an accident. You should seek prompt medical attention to ensure the injuries are properly treated and documented. Documentation is vital for any potential legal claims.

  • Report the Accident 2

    You should report the accident to your employer immediately. An official incident record is evidence for a potential claim.

  • Document the Scene 3

    Gather evidence from the accident scene. This might include taking photographs, collecting witness statements, and writing down details about the equipment or conditions. This information is crucial for building a solid case.

  • Consult a Lawyer 4

    Finally, contact a lawyer who has experience in farming accident cases. A skilled personal injury lawyer can take over your case while you focus on healing.

Special Cases in Agri-Tourism

Tennessee farms are exempt from liability if someone is injured while only on the property for agri-tourism purposes. “Agri-tourism” happens when non-workers visit the farm for recreational purposes. This could be a strawberry farm that allows school field trips or a farm that allows tourists to enjoy rural daily activities.

Tennessee law has determined that farms are not liable if someone dies or is injured due to the inherent dangers of agritourism. There are a few exceptions to this rule.

  • Immunity only exists if the business has posted signs giving notice.
  • Immunity does not apply if the business acted recklessly, willfully, wantonly, or intentionally.
  • Immunity also does not apply if the agri-tourism business had actual knowledge or reasonably should have known of certain dangers associated with the land or an animal and failed to warn the injured party.
  • Immunity does not apply if the agri-tourism business fails to train its employees properly and that failure results in someone being harmed.

How Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC Can Help

At Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, we are committed to supporting farm workers throughout the Greater Nashville area in their time of need. Our attorneys have years of experience handling farming accident cases and understand the complexities involved in the practice area. Here’s how we can assist:

  • Case Evaluation—Our attorneys can evaluate the circumstances of the accident and determine the best legal strategy in your situation. Our attorneys understand the nuances of Tennessee law and can inform you of your rights. Our goal is to help clients understand their options and have clear expectations of what will happen going forward.

  • Investigation and Use of Expert Resources—We conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence and build a strong case. We work with experts to examine all aspects of the accident.

  • Legal Representation—We handle all aspects of the legal process, from filing claims to handling communications with other parties to negotiating settlements and representing clients in court. Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation available for our clients.

  • Personalized Service—We provide services that meet each client’s specific needs. Our lawyers provide compassionate service tailored to each client’s needs, keeping them informed and involved.

Possible Compensation Available

Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC works to obtain the compensation you deserve. Injured people can receive money for multiple types of losses. The compensation available to injured farm workers depends on the specifics of the accident and the injuries. You might be entitled to money for:

  • Medical expenses, including coverage for all medical costs related to the accident, including hospital bills, surgeries, medication, and ongoing treatment

  • Lost wages, including reimbursement for income lost due to the inability to work immediately following the accident and in the long term

  • Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath

  • Rehabilitation costs, including expenses related to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation needed for recovery

  • Disability, if the injury results in permanent disability that reduces earning capacity

Questions to Ask an Attorney at Consultation

If you’re the victim of a farming accident, it’s essential to ask the right questions when consulting a lawyer. Here are some key questions to consider.

  • What experience do you have with farming accident cases?
  • What is your assessment of my case?
  • What are the potential outcomes of my case?
  • How will you communicate with me while my case is pending?
  • What are your fees, and how are they structured?
  • How long do you anticipate my case will take?
  • What are the potential risks and challenges in my case?
  • Do you have any references or testimonials from past clients?

Potential clients need to ensure that they have an attorney who has experience with cases similar to theirs and who will effectively communicate with them about the status of their case.

Asking many questions can help you choose the right lawyer for your farming accident case and will ensure you are well informed and prepared for the legal process.

Choosing an Attorney

Farming is a critical industry in Tennessee, but it comes with significant risks. If you or a loved one has been injured in a farming accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. At Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, our Nashville farming accident lawyers are dedicated to helping injured farm workers and their families handle the legal process and achieve justice.

After a farming accident, you should not have to deal with your recovery and battle insurance companies without help. You should have an experienced attorney to stand by you, explain your options, and champion your cause. Our attorneys will handle all the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being. Contact us online or call us at 615-676-7060 to discuss your potential claim.