Nurse dies in workplace accident at Illinois hospital

On behalf of Jeffrey Frederick of Frederick & Hagle posted in Workplace Accidents on Saturday, February 15, 2014.

Officials are trying to determine the sequence of events that led to the recent death of a nurse reporting for work in the early morning hours. The Illinois woman died in a workplace accident that happened in the parking lot of the hospital at which she worked. She was 51 years old.

The woman was starting her shift as a nurse about 5:30 a.m. when she was reportedly struck by a truck fitted with a snow plow that was clearing the parking lot. According to reports, parts of Illinois were experiencing a substantial snowstorm, which greatly affected the visibility of anyone operating a vehicle. The driver of the truck, who also works at the hospital, was driving in reverse and preparing to continue his snow removal efforts when he heard noises indicating that something had happened. He left his vehicle to investigate and discovered his injured coworker.

Officials are attempting to determine how the accident occurred and what could have been done to prevent it from happening. They say equipment on the truck that is meant to ensure safety was all in working condition. Along with the snow plow attachment, the truck was outfitted with safety lights and an alarm that indicated when the vehicle was going in reverse.

Hospital officials said that they are collaborating with chaplains and other counselors to provide employees with any assistance they might need during what is undoubtedly a difficult time. They say they are continuing to offer prayers for the nurse’s family, including her husband and two sons. While surely appreciated, sympathy will not cover the end-of-life expenses or lost income the woman’s family is facing because of this fatal workplace accident. They may want to investigate pursuing a claim for workers’ compensation death benefits. If successful, the resultant aid could be an invaluable resource as they attempt to move forward from the tragedy.

Source: Daily Herald, Ingleside woman dies after being struck by truck in Advocate Good Shepherd parking lot, Bob Susnjara and Mick Zawislak, Feb. 6, 2014