Charleston, West Virginia, Logging Accident Lawyers On Your Side

Last updated on May 2, 2025

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), logging is considered in many respects to be the most dangerous job in the U.S. While OSHA and West Virginia safety programs have reduced the number of injuries in the logging industry, many employees still suffer catastrophic and fatal injuries doing this hazardous job.

At The Masters Law Firm, L.C., our Charleston logging accident attorneys have decades of combined experience helping injured workers in West Virginia. We help victims of timbering accidents apply for workers’ compensation to cover their medical costs and lost wages. In addition, if your injury was caused by the negligence of a third party, we can file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party. This can provide financial damages that are separate from your workers’ compensation benefits. Speak with us today to learn more.

How Do Logging Accidents Happen?

Nearly all of the jobs in the logging industry are dangerous. Injuries can happen from the harvesting, loading, shipping and processing of logs. Logging company employees in West Virginia are exposed to many dangers, including:

• Falling trees and debris: The nature of the job means that falling limbs and trees are constant hazards on the job. Workers who are struck by these objects can be severely or fatally injured.
• Improper truck loading: Putting the logs onto the truck is a dangerous task. One mistake can cause the logs to fall off the truck and injure many workers.
• Improperly loaded logs falling off the trailer: Even if an improperly loaded truck gets out of the logging area, the logs can fall off while the truck is in transport, injuring or killing people in other vehicles.
• Car and truck accidents involving logging trucks: Heavily loaded logging trucks traveling down winding mountain roads present dangers to the truck driver and other drivers on the road. Whether the logs spill off and cause accidents or the truck collides with another vehicle, these accidents can be catastrophic.
• Crane accidents: Cranes in logging camps and woodyards are used to move timber and load and unload the trucks. A mishandled load can cause the logs to roll off.
• Chainsaw injuries: A defective chainsaw can cause accidents resulting in severe lacerations or the amputation of limbs. We can file a separate claim against the manufacturer in these cases.
• Heavy equipment misuse: Lack of training and/or safety procedures can lead to improper use of cranes, bulldozers and other heavy equipment, resulting in accidents and injuries.
• Rockslides and natural disasters: Clearing timber, especially in a mountainous area, may trigger rockslides and mudslides because the deforestation decreases tree root strength.
• Falls from heights: Whether in a bucket truck or in a tree, falls from elevated heights are common in logging operations. Severe or fatal injuries may be the result.
• Defective equipment: Any equipment, whether a chainsaw or heavy equipment, that has a defect can cause injuries or death. You may be able to recover additional compensation from the negligent manufacturer.

These types of accidents can lead to fractured and broken bones, amputations, traumatic brain injuries, spine injuries, PTSD, paralysis and long-term disabilities. Our logging accident lawyers at The Masters Law Firm, L.C., can work with victims to ensure they get a fair workers’ comp settlement.

Violations Of Safety Standards In The Logging Industry

Logging industry employers, managers and leaders must meet strict safety standards set forth by OSHA and the state. Some of these standards involve:

• The use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Certifications in first aid and CPR for all employees
• Seat belts in vehicles and heavy equipment
• Furnishing portable fire extinguishers
• Stopping work when storms, strong winds, cold, fog or natural disasters occur

If any of these or other safety standards are not met, your employer may be liable for damages. We will investigate the accident to see if they are liable.

What Benefits Can You Receive For A Logging Accident?

When you work with one of our Charleston, West Virginia, logging accident lawyers, you can recover compensation for your injuries and losses from a timbering accident. We will work closely with you to help you get the proper medical care for your injuries and recover the money you need to provide for your family. You may receive compensation for:

• Medical bills, including rehabilitative therapy
• Two-thirds of your lost wages
• A lump sum award (Specific Loss) for certain permanent disabilities
• Vocational training if you cannot return to your job
• Death benefits if you lost a family member

We also understand that one of your major concerns is employment. Your injuries may make it impossible for you to return to work and make a living. We will help ensure you receive lost wage payments for as long as you are unable to work.

Our Lawyers Will Protect Your Rights After A West Virginia Logging Injury

If you or a family member suffered severe or fatal injuries in a West Virginia logging accident, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits and, in some cases, additional damages from a negligent third party. Due to the catastrophic nature of many logging injuries, you will need all of the compensation you are entitled to.

At The Masters Law Firm, L.C., we want our clients to get the help they need to recover from their injuries, and obtaining sufficient damages is our number one mission. When a logging accident leads to disability, medical bills and lost wages, call us at 304-371-7894 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.