Longwall Accidents
West Virginia Coal Mining Accident Attorney
Longwall mining is a method of deep mining that is able to extract large quantities of coal in the form of panels. A longwall machine is made up of shearers that cut the panels of coal from the face of the wall that is being mined and then advances forward, allowing a roof collapse behind it. Shields support the roof of the mine and advance as the shearers move forward.
The size and scope of longwall mining cannot be underestimated. The length of the area mined can be up to 2 miles long and up to 1,500 feet wide. An individual shield can weigh as much as 30 - 40 tons and these are lined up, side by side, through the length of the longwall mine. A shearer makes up the main body of the machine and typically can weigh from 75 - 120 tons.
Dangers of Longwall Mining
The types of injuries that can be sustained in a longwall accident are vast. If defective equipment was involved in the accident, or safety and MSHA violations are responsible, a proven coal mining accident lawyer at the Fitzsimmons Law Firm should be consulted with immediately. Coal mining accidents must be taken seriously by attorneys who are willing to fight for the rights of coal miners and work tirelessly to protect them at all cost.
Obtaining Compensation for Your Injury
Over the last 30 years, the firm has successfully obtained hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for clients that have been the victim of wrongful conduct by others. You could find yourself in a situation where you are unable to pay medical bills and earn a living. You may possibly be out of work for an extended period of time, worsening an already tough financial situation. In many cases, compensation will not only cover medical bills and lost wages, but your pain and emotional suffering as well.
Call a West Virginia coal mining accident lawyer from Fitzsimmons Law Firm today for counsel.