In today’s world, it’s important to be aware of machinery accidents that can happen. Many people are not aware of the dangers machinery poses and as a result, may get injured or worse as a result. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common Des Moines Iowa machinery accidents and what you can do to avoid them.

Accident Statistics

In relation to machinery accidents, the Des Moines area has some of the highest rates in the United States. In 2016, there were a total of eight machinery-related accidents in Des Moines, resulting in a combined total of $1.5 million in damages. This is more than double the national average of $488,000.

The main types of machinery accidents in Des Moines include slips, trips and falls (STF), vehicle collisions, and fires. In each of these categories, the city has a significantly higher rate than the national average. For example, STFs are the most common type of accident in Des Moines and account for 47% of all accidents. This is more than twice the national average of 21%. Vehicle collisions are also a common occurrence in Des Moines and account for 31% of all accidents. This is more than three times the national average of 10%. Fires also occur relatively frequently in Des Moines, with a rate of 12% that is higher than the national average of 5%.

There are several possible explanations for these high rates of machine accidents in Des Moines. One possibility is that there are more machines present in the city than elsewhere, leading to an increased chance of an accident.

Manufacturing Companies

Des Moines is home to many manufacturing companies, including

Iowa Vinyl Graphics, LLC
Countertops By Willett, Inc.
Hood Products, LLC
Waterbury Publications Inc
Care That Grows, LLC
Mec Construction Services Co.
Cownie Furs, L.L.C.
Iowa Crown Crafts, Inc.
Danren, Inc.
Coffee Concern, Inc.
Vivid Impressions
American Marking, Inc.
Kemin Worldwide Holdings, Inc.
Mr. Laser, Inc.

These companies create jobs and contribute to the economy of Des Moines.

Machinery Accidents

Machinery accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of experience or education. If you are a worker in a manufacturing or construction setting, you are especially at risk for injury or death as a result of machinery accidents.

In Des Moines Iowa, there have been a number of machinery accidents that have injured or killed workers. Many of these accidents could have been prevented by following safety guidelines and procedures. Here are some examples:

In 2010, a machine at a paper company in Des Moines caught on fire and caused the death of a worker. The machine was operating without the proper safety guards in place.

In 2009, two workers were killed when a piece of heavy equipment they were working on fell over and crushed them. The machine had not been properly secured to the ground.

In 2009, a power tool technician was fatally injured when an electrical cord he was using came loose and sent sparks flying into his face. The technician should have been using an extension cord instead of the power tool’s regular power cord.

If you have been involved in a machinery accident and suffered injuries, contact an experienced Des Moines Iowa machinery accident lawyer as soon as possible. Many times, the insurance company will try to negotiate a settlement without involving an attorney. This can result in you receiving less money than you are entitled to receive. A qualified lawyer can help protect your rights and get the maximum compensation for your injuries.