Risks for Agricultural Workers during the Harvest Season

North Dakota farmers have begun harvesting their small grains with success, despite the hot and dry summer. However, if we don’t get some rain soon, many are concerned about later crops, like soybeans and corn.

As of now, it’s too early to tell what kinds of yields local farmers will see for the rest of the year, but experts remain hopeful. “Early spring and summer heat kind of pushed the crop a little bit too fast,” said Heather Dufault, interim University of Minnesota Extension ag educator. She added that some crops have been affected by more disease and insect infestation than previous years. “I think they are expecting a little bit less, hoping for a little bit more,” she said.

One thing is sure even when the weather is not—farms can be a dangerous place to work. It’s demanding, physical labor, with a lot of work around large machinery. Another danger about farming accidents is that it often takes medical help longer to reach an accident victim, simply due to the nature of the real estate.

Many farming-related accidents occur through no fault of your own, and if so, you may be due compensation for your personal injuries and losses.

Common causes for serious injuries on farms

There are many types of agricultural-related accidents, including:

• Tractor rollovers and accidents
• Front-end loader or backhoe accidents
• Farm tool injuries, including augers, balers, combines, etc.
• Falls from heights or slip-and-falls
• Livestock-related injuries
• Exposure to pesticides or other toxins
• Vehicle accidents
• Defective machinery

Because the farming industry is largely exempt from claiming workers’ compensation, employees and contractors alike may only find recourse through a personal injury claim. Given how serious some injuries can be – and how certain types of injuries could make it impossible for you to work – it is important that you seek counsel from an attorney.

Injuries common to farm workers

Any time another person acts in a negligent manner, your health and safety could be at risk. This is true whether you’re exposed to dangerous, industry-grade chemicals, or work under a supervisor who cares more about results and profits than about proper training and worker protection. We can assist agricultural workers who have received or developed:

• Head, neck or back injuries
• Cuts and lacerations
• Fractured and broken bones
• Respiratory disease
• Cancer
• Skin conditions
• Musculoskeletal conditions
• Noise-induced hearing loss
• Repetitive stress injuries

If you or a loved one were injured in a farming or agricultural accident, contact the North Dakota personal injury attorneys at Larson Law Firm, P.C. We’ll protect your rights and seek compensation for your losses while you take the time to heal. To schedule your free initial consultation with an attorney, call our Minot office at 701-484-4878, or fill out our contact form.