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Modern farms employ very few people and instead use labour-saving machinery such as combine harvesters, milking machines and tractors, some of which could be the source of a farm accident claim.
Steam-driven tractors were introduced on Victorian farms in the late 19th Century and, as the internal combustion engine developed, they gradually became more popular in the early 1900s. After a reduction in use during the Second World War, the increasing mechanisation of agriculture led to their increased introduction on all sizes of farm and they are now synonymous with farming.
Despite – or because of – the popularity of the tractor as a workhorse, many agricultural accidents have occurred because of their use or misuse.
Rolling over or tipping are the main reason for tractor drivers being injured, many of them suffering fatal injuries. If a vehicle cannot cope with the steepness of a slope or particularly uneven ground, turns too tightly, or is trying to pull too heavy a load, it may fall backwards or sideways, resulting in a crash.
Many modern farm machines with seats have enclosed cabs which offer a degree of protection from various risks. As well as improving the driver's view, which can be helpful in preventing accidents, an enclosed cab will have a roll cage around the driver as well as seat belts.
Older tractors with open cabs are likely to be far more dangerous, because of their lack of safety equipment, than their modern counterparts.
To minimise the chance of an overturning accident, farm workers need to be fully trained in the use of their vehicles and to know their limitations.
Travelling on roads between fields and farm buildings is a situation where tractors could also be involved in accidents although, given the comparative size of vehicles involved, if a car is in collision with a tractor, the car driver is more likely to come off worse.
This, of course, does not prevent the tractor driver from taking the utmost care to avoid a vehicle accident. This is also true in a farmyard where the proximity of buildings, people and animals may make manoeuvring difficult and dangerous.
Because of the height of modern tractors, especially when they have implements attached, there are other hazards of which drivers should be aware, including the possible danger of coming into contact with overhead power lines and the risk of electrocution.
Many farms are operated by owner-occupiers who do all the work themselves with, perhaps, extra casual labour when needed, and these people have a duty to care for their own safety as well as anyone on their land.
It is easy to become complacent about the every-day risks in life but, unfortunately, many farmers and farm workers have paid the penalty of death or serious injury through suffering a preventable farm accident.
YouClaim solicitors for a farm accident claim
An employer who engages a worker to drive a tractor or use other machinery is liable for the health and safety of employees and should ensure they are trained and fully capable of using the tractor, that the vehicle is well maintained, and that risks to the driver are minimal.
If, however, an incident has occurred through no fault of the victim, it may be appropriate for a farm accident claim for compensation to be made either by themselves or their family on their behalf.
YouClaim has some of the best personal injury solicitors in the UK, available through the internet at the click of a mouse, all of whom are happy to offer free advice on the merits of a potential damages claim followed up by representation if wished.
For more information about the professional service offered by YouClaim, why not contact a member of our helpful legal team either by starting a webchat or telephoning 0845 10 757 95. Alternatively, complete an online inquiry form and we'll get back to you.
