According to the National Safety Council, a worker is injured every seven seconds in the U.S. That equals out to a staggering 4,600,000 injuries a year. The cost to employers in 2017 was over 100 million production days and injured workers suffered in the form of pain and lost wages. Almost all work injuries are preventable when employers use best practices and adhere to the standards and guidelines set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The following are some of the most commonplace work injuries:
Overexertion
Overexertion tops the list of workplace injuries. It can happen during lifting, carrying, or because of repetitive tasks. Workers across many industries are affected by overexertion, including those in retail, manufacturing, and construction. Typical overexertion injuries include herniated and slipped discs, sprains and strains, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Caught In/Between Objects
Contact with objects and equipment is another common cause for serious injury. When workers get caught in or between moving equipment and a stationery object, they can be crushed. Being struck by falling objects is also a hazard in the workplace.
Slip and Falls
Injuries from slip and falls are common across all industries. While falls from heights are particularly dangerous and often fatal, slipping on wet, icy, or greasy surfaces can cause serious injuries to the head, neck, and back, as well as broken bones.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents also result in many workplace injuries. Workers using their own vehicles may be covered by workers’ compensation if they were injured in an accident while on the job and working for their employer. Common injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident include soft tissue damage, such as whiplash, head injuries, and concussions; broken bones; and back/spinal cord injuries.
Workplace Violence
Unfortunately, workplace violence must be mentioned as a safety hazard for many workers. Whether from an assault by a co-worker or an armed robber, many workers report experiencing injuries sustained in an incident of workplace violence.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act requires most employers to have insurance coverage to provide compensation to employees for work-related injuries and illnesses. It is a no-fault system that enables employees to receive benefits that help pay for medical costs and lost wages.
If you were injured on the job, workers’ compensation benefits can cover your medical treatment, including hospital stays and prescription medication, lost wages, and temporary or permanent disabilities. Be sure to report your injury to your employer immediately as failure to do so could disqualify you for benefits.
Many insurance companies try to avoid paying benefits to workers injured on the job. If your claim was denied, speak to a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer right away. In addition to helping you file a claim, an experienced lawyer can identify the maximum benefits available to you depending on your injury.
Downingtown Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC Help Injured Workers
If you were injured at work, the Downingtown workers’ compensation lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC are dedicated to helping injured workers obtain compensation for recovery. Call us at 610-594-1600 or contact us online today for a free consultation. Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we represent clients throughout West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchlan Township, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.