Reality-show singer killed by conveyor belt

Accidents happen on job sites every day. Most of the time, these accidents are minor, and not life threatening. However, other times, they are horrific accidents that cost workers their lives. And, most humbly, these accidents can befall anyone, even famous reality-show singers.

The reality-show singer

According to a Nov. 26 report and an obituary, the reality-show singer, Thomas Wells, died in November, killed by a conveyor belt at work. He is most famous for staring on reality-tv singing competitions “X-Factor,” “The Voice” and “America’s Got Talent.” He gained notoriety due to his vocal and instrument range and the fact that he taught himself how to sing and play multiple instruments, by ear, as a child.

The workplace accident

According to the report and obituary, the 46-year-old reality star was working at a tire factory in Oklahoma. Somehow, he was caught and dragged onto an automatic conveyor belt. The belt did not stop, and he was crushed, suffering sever injuries that caused his death later at a Texas hospital.

Workplace accidents, generally

For many in New York, a workplace accident will mean worker’s compensation. However, in cases like this, there may be third-party liability that may justify bringing other types of lawsuits, like wrongful death, personal injury, products liability, etc. Therefore, it can be important to help as soon as possible after a workplace accident to understand the full scope of who can be held liable and the options for the employee and their family.

Personal injury and wrongful death

Accidents, like this one, are avoidable. With the appropriate safety measures in place, conveyor belts, construction sites and factory/industry settings can be made relatively safe. Unfortunately, it is often easier and cheaper to not make these settings safe, or where there are safety measures in place, the equipment itself does not always operate as intended. This is when our Albany, New York, readers may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit or their family can file a wrongful death lawsuit.