Summary
- There are many common causes of work injuries that can be presented to you at your workplace.
- Workplace injuries can result in expensive medical bills and lost wages.
- Causes of workplace injuries include slips, trips, falls, overexertion, bodily reaction, exposure to harmful substances or environments, and contact with objects and equipment.
- Workers’ compensation insurance is available to compensate most injured workers for medical bills and a portion of lost wages.
- Working with an experienced work injury attorney can help you recover fair compensation.
Every year, millions of Americans suffer work-related injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to debilitating disabilities. These injuries can cause immense physical and emotional suffering, and medical bills and lost wages can cause huge financial burdens.
If you’ve been injured on the job, you deserve compensation for the financial strain it puts you through. Working with a work injury lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect your rights, and receive the compensation you deserve.
Types of Workplace Injury
There are four main categories for causes of workplace injuries they are usually divided into, which are :
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Overexertion and bodily reaction
- Exposure to harmful substances or events
- Contact with objects and environment
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are extremely common types of workplace injuries, particularly in offices. Falling over in the office place is especially common, being about two times as likely to happen than in other working environments. They can be caused by environmental hazards such as uneven surfaces, poor lighting, spills, or cluttered walkways.
Falls are common causes of work injuries, such as sprains, broken bones, or traumatic brain injuries. Slipping and falling is one of the easiest ways to suffer an injury that can cause physical disability.
Overexertion and Bodily Reaction
Overexertion and bodily reactions are among the most common causes of work injuries that require time away from work. These can be broken up into two categories:
- Non-impact injuries like muscle strains or tears can be caused by any job that requires lifting, throwing, catching, or other strenuous movements.
- Repetitive motion injuries like carpal tunnel can occur even in jobs you may not think of as physically strenuous.
These types of injuries can develop gradually over time or occur from a sudden event.
Exposure to Harmful Substances or Environments
Workers in various industries face the risk of exposure to hazardous materials and dangerous environments, including:
- Electricity
- Radiation
- Extreme temperatures
- Pressure changes
- Traumatic events
- Infectious diseases
- And more
Exposure to these risks can cause burns, poisoning, respiratory problems, cancer, and other serious health issues.
Additionally, COVID-19 has highlighted the risks of infectious diseases in the workplace: since the beginning of the pandemic, this category of injury has skyrocketed when it comes to causing days away from work.
Contact With Objects and Equipment
Many workplaces involve close proximity with objects or equipment that can be dangerous in the wrong situation. Machinery, tools, falling objects, or sharp edges can pose significant risks for workers.
These accidents can result in cuts, punctures, crushed limbs, amputations, and other severe injuries.
Risk Factors and Preventative Measures
It’s crucial to remember that employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe work environment and train employees on safety protocols. This includes:
- Providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, goggles, and respirators.
- Implementing proper training and safety protocols for using equipment.
- Maintaining clean and well-lit working areas.
- Addressing potential hazards promptly.
- Encouraging employees to report unsafe conditions and seek immediate medical attention for injuries.
Examples of Methods to Prevent Workplace Injury
- Proper training and safety protocols for using equipment can significantly reduce the risk of machinery-related accidents.
- Implementing proper lifting techniques and providing access to lifting aids can prevent musculoskeletal injuries.
- Wet floor signage, prompt cleaning, adequate lighting, and encouraging the use of non-slip shoes can minimize slip and fall accidents.
- Regular breaks and ergonomic workstations can help prevent repetitive stress injuries.
Legal Options for Injured Workers
If you’ve suffered a work-related injury, you have rights and options under both workers’ compensation and personal injury law.
- Most states have workers’ compensation systems that provide medical benefits and a portion of lost wages to injured workers, regardless of fault. This is how most workplace injuries are compensated.
- In some cases, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against your employer. These situations are rare but could result in significantly higher compensation compared to workers’ compensation alone.
How Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia Can Help You
It’s technically possible to pursue compensation for a workplace injury on your own. However, an experienced workplace injury lawyer can be an invaluable ally in a difficult time. This is particularly true if your case is complex or if your claims have been denied.
The team of attorneys at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia can help. We offer comprehensive legal services to help you:
- Gather and present the necessary evidence.
- File paperwork and navigate the workers’ compensation system.
- Negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation.
- If necessary, represent you in court.
Contact WHG to Speak with an Experienced Work Injury Lawyer ASAP
We know what you’re going through, and we want to help. At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we have a proven track record of winning compensation for clients like you.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and get the support you deserve during this difficult time.
To get started, contact us online or call us at (800) 320-HELP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a work injury?
Immediately after a workplace injury, you should report your injury to your employer and, if necessary, seek medical attention.
Consider contacting an attorney if your injury is severe or if your employer is unresponsive.
How do I file a workers’ compensation claim?
You should report a workplace injury to your employer right away. From there, it’s their legal responsibility to report the injury to their workers’ compensation insurance provider, who should be getting in touch with you shortly after that.
However, if your employer isn’t responding or if you haven’t heard from their insurance provider, you can report the injury yourself, either to the insurance company or your state’s workers’ compensation board.
An attorney can also be helpful, especially if you need to file a lawsuit.
What kind of compensation can I expect after a workplace injury?
If your injury is covered under your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance, it will cover all of the medical bills related to your injury and some portion of your lost wages, usually around two-thirds.
In some unique cases, such as if your employer caused intentional harm, you may be able to file a lawsuit and recover additional damages like pain and suffering. Get in touch with an experienced workplace injury lawyer for an evaluation of your individual case.
What happens if my employer disputes my claim?
If your employer or their insurance provider contests your claim, you have the right to appeal the decision. A workplace injury attorney can guide you through the appeals process and represent you at hearings.
