Denver Mining Worker Injury Attorney
Mining is a central facet of the modern U.S. economy. In 2021, American mines were worth over $90 billion in non-fuel production. Expanding the mining industry can mean focusing on relentless production and profit instead of safety, making mining even more dangerous to employees.
So if you or a loved one has been injured while working in a mine, it is important to understand your rights to benefits under workers’ compensation law.
The Eley Law Firm team has extensive experience handling mining-related accidents and workers’ compensation cases in Colorado. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured miners and their families.
Our skilled Denver workplace injury attorneys will work tirelessly to build a strong case for you and all our clients. Get started with us to see how we can help you navigate the complex legal process today.
Colorado Mining Statistics And Workforce
Colorado ranks 16th among the states producing the highest value minerals and metals, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Additionally, the types of non-fuel minerals produced in Colorado are fairly diverse. Colorado ranks first in the nation for producing molybdenum concentrate and mines clay, gold, and helium.
The mining sector in Colorado has approximately 21,900 jobs, making up 0.76% of Colorado’s workforce as of early 2023.
What Types Of Injuries Could Happen To Miners?
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that in 26 states, mining has the highest fatality rate of any industry. NIOSH determined the most frequent cause of injury and fatality can be attributed to:
- Fires
- Explosions
- Cave-ins
- Injuries from heavy machinery
- Exposures to dust and toxic agents
Additionally, mine workers can experience fairly common occupational injuries and illnesses that can occur in any workplace. Overexertion, repetitive motion injuries, slips, trips, and falls can happen in a mine or mine-related workplace.
These situations can cause injuries like:
- Broken or Fractured Bones
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Internal Bruising
- Crushed Limbs or Digits
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Spinal Column Injury (SPI)
- Hearing Loss
What Types Of Illnesses Could Happen To Miners?
For an illness to be classified as occupational, according to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), it cannot be a common cold or flu. It must be a disease contracted or developed due to being on the clock in the work environment.
Examples of diseases contracted or developed from mining include:
- Cancer (Tracheal, Lung, Stomach, and Liver)
- Pulmonary Tuberculosis
- Silicosis
- Pneumoconiosis
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
To prevent diseases and injury, employers of miners are required to offer employees personal forms of protective equipment (PPE) such as NIOSH-approved filtering facepiece respirators, safety goggles, gloves, and hearing protection.
Why Injured Miners Need To Work With Denver’s Eley Law Firm
Injured miners in Denver face unique challenges and risks regarding workplace accidents. Whether you’re struggling with keeping on top of the documentation requirements or needing to bring your workers’ comp case to a hearing due to a claim denial, Eley Law Firm is here in your time of need.
We have been tirelessly dedicated to protecting the rights of injured miners and their families for over 30 years. Whether involved in mining, storage, transportation, or any other part of the process, our Denver warehouse accident attorneys can help. Get in touch with us today to receive a complimentary consultation and review of your mining injury case. Let us help you obtain the benefits that are rightfully yours.