A workplace accident in Goshen, Indiana, claimed the life of 36-year-old Milos Jovanovic on Wednesday morning. According to reports, Jovanovic was struck by a large bundle of steel tubing from his semi-truck. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead before he could be airlifted to a hospital.
Whenever I hear about an incident like this, I think about the investigative steps needed to determine whether all necessary safety measures were in place. Loading and unloading heavy materials from commercial trucks requires careful coordination, and it’s important to understand whether proper protocols were followed in this case.
Was the Load Properly Secured Before Unloading?
One of the key questions investigators will need to answer is whether the steel tubing was properly secured before it was removed from the truck. Cargo that shifts during transport or is improperly fastened can become unstable, creating serious hazards for drivers and workers during unloading. Investigators should assess whether the securement devices used for the load met federal safety standards or were defective.
Were the Proper Safety Procedures Followed During Unloading?
Unloading heavy materials requires careful planning to prevent accidents. Investigators should look into whether the unloading process by the receiving business followed proper safety guidelines, including whether the area was clear of unnecessary personnel, if lifting equipment was used appropriately, and if workers had sufficient warning before the load was moved.
Types of Evidence That Should Be Examined
A thorough investigation should include reviewing any available surveillance footage of the incident, speaking with witnesses who were present during the unloading process, and assessing the condition of the semi-truck and its cargo restraints. Additionally, investigators should examine whether the facility had clear safety protocols in place for receiving deliveries and whether those protocols were followed.
The Importance of Investigating Thoroughly
Incidents like this underscore the importance of ensuring that workplace safety procedures are strictly followed, particularly in environments where heavy cargo is handled. In my experience with work injury cases, thorough investigations can help answer the critical questions that arise after such incidents, providing clarity on what happened.