Another Grand Rapids construction worker was injured - this time while painting the Coit Avenue Bridge on I-196. The man was working in a "cherry picker" type rig, when a van struck the crane. The construction worker was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The accident was set into motion when motorist Travis Trom's truck struck the van from behind - propelling it into the work site. The other driver was Ron Spencer of Grand Rapids. Spencer escaped serious injury in the accident. Trom admitted to rear-ending the van.
If he is like most workers, the injured crane operator is no doubt under the impression that his only recourse will be workers compensation insurance. That is common myth perpetuated by the insurance industry. In fact - it is false.
Under Michigan law, if the person or entity which caused the injuries is independent of the injured worker's employer, then traditional - unlimited - negligence remedies may be available. In a case like that, since workers compensation insurance caps are inapplicable, the injury victim may be entitled to millions of dollars.
Essential to a full and fair resolution of the claim is successful navigation of the legal maze. Typically, a personal injury lawyer will, at the outset, identify all deadlines, notice requirements, defenses, responsible parties and potential sources of monetary compensation. It is only through that process that the strengths, the weaknesses and the value of the case can be known.
And it is that specialized knowledge that places the injured worker on a level playing field with the insurance defense lawyers.
Grand Rapids Crane Accident Injures Construction Worker on I-196, WZZM TV !3, October 2, 2010
