Certain industries in North Carolina pose more risks to workers than others. Industries such as construction and transportation see many work-related accidents each year, and industrial and factory work also see more than their share of employee injury claims. Sometimes, these work-related accidents can lead to the deaths of workers, but most employees are covered under the state’s workers’ compensation program. The North Carolina Department of Labor is investigating a recent incident that claimed the life of a worker.
Fatal work accident being investigated
The report about the accident did not offer a lot of details. However, it was stated that the incident happened on Oct. 13 at an industrial facility in Durham. The facility is owned by Wolfspeed, a company that produces silicon carbide components for use in a variety of applications, such as power supplies, transportation, and radio.
The victim was described as a 45-year-old male. He was working as an electrician at the plant. For reasons unknown, he was electrocuted while performing his duties and was killed as a result. The NC DOL said the investigation into the accident could take months to complete.
Seeking survivor benefits
Not only does the North Carolina program provide much-needed benefits to injured workers, but it also provides death benefits to immediate surviving family members in the case of death. Surviving family members may receive up to two-thirds of the deceased worker’s average weekly wage, and the recipients can be anyone who is “wholly dependent” on the deceased worker’s income. Although surviving family members may claim workers’ compensation death benefits, the process is complex and challenging. Anyone who needs help getting their rightful benefits should consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney for assistance.