A 27 year old gas well worker was fatally pinned and crushed when unstable ground beneath the wheels of a rough terrain lift caused the lift to suddenly lurch into him. The use of large wooden rig mats should have been used as a safety precaution to help stabilize the ground area on the site. The site operator decided to cut costs by “getting by” using ½ the number of required rig mats for the site. To make matters worse, the drilling contractor assigned an operator to the equipment without providing training for its safe operation on this rough terrain. As a result, the young employee was killed. OSHA issued citations for safety violations causing the death of the worker.
The young man left behind a 5 year old son, a mother, father, brothers, sisters and numerous extended family members. The 27 year old was a critical part of his family unit in WV that was sustained almost entirely by their farm land and whatever they could produce on the farm. Bucci Bailey & Javins, LC headquartered in Charleston, WV stepped up to help this family who had lost not only a beloved family member, but also a crucial member of a family unit trying to survive on their own land.
The actual results and parties are part of a confidential settlement agreement but we can tell you that Bucci Bailey & Javins, LC was able to secure for this family a settlement that would allow the parents to continue living on the family farm, make much needed repairs and ensure a future the young man had dreamed of for his 5 year old son. The 27 year old paid the price for the costs saving decisions made by the gas well drilling company but, but Bucci Bailey & Javins helped the family achieve the dream he had for his family and ensured a legacy that will live on for many generations.
No company is too big for trial lawyers like Bucci Bailey & Javins when it comes to fighting for families, impacting corporate behavior and holding corporations and insurance companies accountable.
Join us as we congratulate the Bucci Bailey & Javins, LC for their work in ensuring the legacy of this young man.
Senior Vice President, Client Services
