West Virginia Mining Accident Lawyers

Mining is traditionally dangerous work. As a result, strict laws are in place to protect miners while on the job. The Mine Safety and Health Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor regulates safety in the mining industry throughout the United States per the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (Mine Act) as amended by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 (MINER Act).

Even with these safety regulations, explosions, collapses and other incidents still occur and the results can be deadly. West Virginia's expansive mining industry means numerous miners and their families are at risk of being impacted by mining-related accidents and illnesses. When a miner is injured, he may be unable to work. His dependants may suffer financially and mentally as a result.

At the law firm of Michael Martin & Associates, we fight on behalf of miners suffering from work-related injuries and illnesses. If you were injured in a mining accident in West Virginia — or if you lost a family member due to a mining accident — you may be entitled to compensation from the mine owner or operator.

Protecting injured miners and their families

It is the responsibility of mine owners and operators to ensure the safety of every individual working for them. When they fail to do so and injuries or illnesses occur, miners and their families may be entitled to compensation.

According to research compiled by the Center for Disease Control's National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, common mining-related injuries and illnesses include:

Dermatitis
Freezing and frostbite
Hearing loss or impairment
Heat stroke, sunstroke, heat cramps, etc.
Joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation

Poisoning, systemic
Asbestosis
Black lung (coal workers' pneumoconiosis)
Silicosis

Typical causes of mining accidents include:

Gas leaks
Hydrogen sulfide
Explosive natural gases such as firedamp or methane
Dust explosions
Collapse of mine stopes
Mining-induced seismic activity

Flooding
Mechanical errors or malfunctioning mining equipment
Improper use of mining equipment
Lack of safety equipment
Improper use of explosives underground

Let Michael Martin & Associates fight for you today

When you or a loved one suffers an injury in a mining accident or other incident, the experienced West Virginia personal injury lawyers at Michael Martin & Associates can help. With offices in Charleston and Beckley, we represent clients throughout West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky and Southern Ohio. Call us today at 866.230.1902 or contact us online to discuss your case.