West Virginia Coal Mining Accident Attorney

Longwall Accidents Involving Coal Miners

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.

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 West Virginia coal mining accident lawyer at the Fitzsimmons 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.

Some of the outcomes the firm has secured for their clients are a $39 million verdict for insurance bad faith (the largest ever in West Virginia) and a $25 million settlement for a coal mining explosion. Let the firm get started on your case today.

Contact a West Virginia coal mining accident attorney if you or a loved one were injured in a longwall accident and would like legal help.