A full 97% of Wisconsin land is considered rural. While these areas are sparsely populated, any Wisconsinite living in a rural community knows that farm accidents are not uncommon.
Whether it happens in the city or the country, any accident can result in serious, life-threatening injuries. But when an accident happens on a farm or rural land, the risks increase dramatically.
Just as it is important to know what to do when you are hurt in the city, you should know what to do if you suffer a serious or catastrophic injury on the farm. Taking the right steps can mean the difference between life and death.
Steps To Take if You Are Hurt on the Farm
The best way to address farm injuries is to prevent them from happening. Prioritize keeping your equipment in good working order and inspect it before each use.
The next best step is to be prepared. Keep medical supplies and a charged cell phone nearby in the event of an injury. Always communicate your whereabouts to someone so that rescuers know where to look if there is trouble.
If you do find yourself hurt while working on the farm or traveling in the country, the following steps could help you prevent further harm and complications — and protect your legal rights:
Call For or Get Medical Help Right Away
It can take longer for emergency crews to reach you when you are on the farm. Similarly, with only a limited number of rural hospitals and health centers, reaching an appropriate care facility can take some time. That’s why you must reach out and summon first responders as soon as possible.
Document Your Injury if Possible
Take photographs of the accident scene and any machinery involved in your injury. This documentation can make it much easier for your lawyer to tell the story about how your accident came about. A strong narrative about the accident could increase your odds of recovering compensation for your farm accident injuries.
Do Not Settle Your Case Too Quickly
If your accident is due to defective machinery, shoddy repairs, or the negligence of a farm worker, you may be approached about a settlement soon after your accident.
However, it is crucial that you do not agree to the settlement before your losses are fully understood. Because your physical health is your livelihood on a farm, injuries that keep you out of work for weeks or months can be financially ruinous.
Contact a Knowledgeable Catastrophic Injury Lawyer in Wisconsin
If you or a loved one is seriously hurt in a farm accident, your first concern should be your health and safety. Then, you should speak with a qualified attorney about whether you deserve compensation for your injuries. The sooner you reach out for legal help with your claim, the stronger your position as you begin to take action.
