Landscaping and Groundskeeping Work-Related Injuries
Businesses and homeowners throughout Minnesota often hire landscaping and groundskeeping crews to keep their lawns and outdoor areas healthy and maintained year-round. These jobs are in high demand, especially during the summer months, but they can also put workers in danger.
Landscape workers like you can suffer serious injuries from things like equipment failures, poor safety protocols, and acts of nature. If you suffered a disabling on-the-job injury, the Workers’ Compensation attorneys at Fields Law Firm can give you the advice you need to protect your rights and your future.
It costs nothing to get answers to your questions –
Client Success Story
During the busiest part of the year, a landscaper suffered an injury to his back. He was pushing a wheelbarrow filled with approximately 150 pounds of rock up an embankment. The wheelbarrow tilted to one side and when he tried to correct the weight distribution, his body shifted with the weight, causing severe injury to his back.
The Workers’ Compensation insurer accepted liability for his injuries and paid wage loss and medical benefits. The man reached out to Fields Law Firm for guidance and advice. We were available to our client to answer all his questions along the way.
At one point, the doctor released the man to return to light duty work. His employer told him that he could accommodate his restrictions so he reported to work. However, even the light worked turned out to be too physically demanding. Unfortunately, the Workers’ Compensation insurer ignored his complaints and discontinued his wage loss benefits, alleging he refused a suitable job offer.
Our team brought a claim for ongoing wage loss benefits. We were able to secure a settlement for the man, which allowed him to take the time off he needed for his back to heal.
Types of Landscaping and Groundskeeping Injuries
Landscaping and groundskeeping workers may at be at risk of suffering injuries, such as:
- Cuts and Lacerations
Lawn and plant care requires the use of sharp tools, like lawnmowers, mulchers, woodchippers, and tree trimmers. If these tools malfunction or aren’t manufactured with proper safety guards, workers can suffer deep cuts and lacerations. - Crushing Injuries
Landscapers often trim and cut down parts of trees to maintain their health and appearance. When crew supervisors don’t make sure all workers are clear, falling branches and debris can injure workers. - Eye Injuries
Lawnmowers and tractors can throw debris over long distances at high speeds. If a rock, stick, or other object gets thrown by a lawnmower, it can cause severe eye injuries to workers in its path – especially if they don’t have proper safety equipment like safety goggles.
What to Do After a Landscaping Injury
If you suffered a landscaping injury, you’re hurting and confused, and you may be unable to go back to work. You know you need to talk to someone about your injury, but you’re afraid your employer will find out.
At our Minnesota Workers’ Compensation law firm, our experienced staff won’t discuss your inquiry with your employer, and all communication is private and confidential. We want to help injured workers in Minnesota get the information they need without the worry of retaliation.
