Farming is crucial to North Dakota’s economy. According to government statistics, agricultural employees make up nearly 25 percent of the state’s workforce. As such, a significant proportion of the population regularly works on or around farm equipment, such as tractors, to the point where these powerful vehicles might not seem as dangerous as they truly are. Don’t make that mistake—tractors can and do cause accidents when they aren’t operated with care, leaving victims with enormous hospital bills, lost wages from time off work, and long-lasting emotional trauma. Here is what you need to know about tractor accidents and what you can do to avoid them.
Common Tractor Accidents in North Dakota
Tractor accidents can occur under many different circumstances. Some of the most common incidents involve tractors overturning due to uneven terrain, improper loading, or operator error. Collisions with other vehicles or stationary objects are also a significant concern, especially when tractors are driven on public roads. Additionally, entanglement in power take-off (PTO) shafts or other moving parts can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Types of Injuries from Tractor Accidents
The injuries sustained in tractor accidents can be life-altering or even fatal. Rollover accidents can result in crush injuries, broken bones, and head trauma. Collisions may cause lacerations, internal organ damage, and spinal cord injuries. Entanglement in PTO shafts or other moving parts can lead to the loss of limbs, severe fractures, and extensive soft tissue damage. In the worst cases, tractor accidents can result in permanent disability or even death.
Five Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Tractor Accidents
While there is no way of completely eliminating the possibility of tractor accidents, you can take the following steps to reduce their likelihood:
- Ensure proper training – All tractor operators should receive comprehensive training on safe operation techniques and emergency procedures.
- Maintain equipment – Regular maintenance and inspections can identify potential safety hazards before accidents occur.
- Use rollover protection structures (ROPS) – ROPS, combined with seatbelts, can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in rollover accidents.
- Avoid operating on steep slopes – Whenever possible, avoid using tractors on steep or uneven terrain to minimize the risk of rollovers.
- Be cautious on public roads – Ensure that the tractor is well-marked and visible to other motorists, and always follow traffic laws while on public roads.
By taking these precautions, farm workers can help reduce the risk of tractor accidents and protect themselves and others from serious injuries.
Compensation Available in Tractor Accidents
You could be entitled to compensation following a tractor accident in North Dakota. Check with your employer to determine if you are covered by a workers’ compensation policy; North Dakota exempts most farm and agricultural employers from providing this insurance. If you are not covered by workers’ comp and someone else is responsible for your injuries, they could owe you money for your:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Consulting a knowledgeable North Dakota tractor accident attorney can help you understand what type of claim you may be eligible to file and how much your claim might be worth.
Contact Our North Dakota Farm Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., has served injured North Dakotans since 1909. We recognize that even the most safety-conscious farm workers can suffer equipment-related injuries due to faulty machine parts or another party’s negligence. If you’ve been hurt in a tractor accident, we have the skills and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with a tractor accident injury attorney in North Dakota, and let’s discuss how we can help you demand money for your medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. is committed to supporting individuals in North Dakota, including Grand Forks and Minot, as well as the surrounding areas. Our dedicated team is here to provide legal assistance and guidance to those facing the complex challenges that arise from these incidents.
