Wrongful death lawsuit filed after fatal robotics accident

Technology is an amazing thing. Over the last several decades, advances in technology have revolutionized the way people in Pennsylvania and across the country travel, communicate, treat illnesses and work. Unfortunately, there are potential downfalls associated with the increasing use of tools such as robots in the workforce. In fact, one man claims in a recently filed Wrongful Death lawsuit that negligence on the part of several companies involved in the manufacture of robots led to his wife's death.

The incident occurred in July 2015. The victim was a 57-year-old woman who specialized in repairing robotics at a company that stamps and welds trailer hitches and truck bumpers. Unfortunately, reports indicate that the arm of a robot in another section of the building unexpectedly entered the area where the woman was working, pinning her head.

Co-workers discovered the woman when they realized that some of the equipment was malfunctioning. She was unresponsive at the time of the discovery and passed away approximately 40 minutes after the incident occurred. Now, her husband is claiming that negligence on behalf of six different companies caused her death, specifically due to failures related to the design, manufacture and monitoring of the equipment.

Unfortunately, those who file wrongful death lawsuits in response to fatal work-related accidents are aware that a monetary award may do little to lessen their grief following the unexpected death of a loved one. However, the knowledge that their actions could potentially prevent other families from experiencing the same loss can provide a sense of peace. An attorney with experience with such cases can help surviving family members in Pennsylvania fully understand their legal options and pursue the most appropriate path.

Source: USA Today, "A defective robot killed a woman, a lawsuit claims, and her family wants answers", Tresa Balda, March 15, 2017

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