When a lineman suffers a catastrophic injury at work, the aftermath can be devastating, not just for the individual but for their entire family. Workers’ compensation kicks in, providing financial support until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. However, the duration and amount of these benefits can vary significantly from state to state. In California, for instance, most injuries qualify for up to 104 weeks of benefits, while severe conditions can extend that to 240 weeks. This coverage ceases once the individual returns to work, although modified-duty options are available as long as they adhere to medical restrictions.
But what happens when the injury is so severe that returning to work as a lineman is simply not an option? Picture a journeyman lineman who loses a limb in an accident. The harsh reality is that there’s no modified role that can replicate the demands of the job. While there may be opportunities in other career paths, they often come with a steep pay cut. Transitioning from a six-figure salary to minimum wage is a bitter pill to swallow. Sure, there might be a settlement for the injury and some training opportunities, but the financial and emotional fallout can be overwhelming.
In this scenario, the legal landscape becomes crucial. Injured workers can’t sue their employers directly, so the next step often involves pursuing claims against other parties connected to the incident. As someone who has spent decades in the transmission and distribution utility industry, I’ve seen the grim realities that accompany these cases. Working as an expert witness, I’ve reviewed countless cases involving catastrophic injuries and fatalities. The litigation process is grueling and often feels like a no-win situation for everyone involved. The most heart-wrenching aspect? Witnessing the pain of the families left behind. Standing in a courtroom, looking at the widow and children of a deceased lineman, and having to explain the circumstances surrounding their loss is a heavy burden.
Being an expert witness isn’t just about having the right qualifications; it’s about possessing a deep understanding of the industry. After an initial interview with an attorney, I provide my CV detailing my career and experience. The number of lineman expert witnesses is incredibly small—fewer than ten in the entire field, to my knowledge. Once retained, I dive into reviewing documents and forming opinions, which often become the cornerstone of the case. These opinions are shaped by meticulous investigations, and they must be backed by solid evidence.
In my years of examining accident cases, a troubling pattern emerges: many injuries stem from a failure to adhere to established safety practices. Sure, employers share some responsibility, particularly when I uncover gaps in training or safety protocols. But it’s equally frustrating to see workers disregard the very rules designed to keep them safe.
To foster a culture of safety and professionalism, linemen must commit to mastering their craft. They should mentor apprentices, listen to their peers, and exercise their “Stop Work” authority when necessary. These aren’t just best practices; they’re essential for ensuring that the next generation of linemen can enjoy long, fulfilling careers while also watching their children grow up. After all, the stakes are high, and the cost of negligence—whether on the part of the employer or the employee—can be tragically steep.
