While some might assume that workplace injuries are only relevant in high-risk sectors like manufacturing, construction, and others, workplace injuries are applicable across all industries.
With that said, if you have experienced an injury while on the job, it’s essential to report the incident and consult a workers’ comp lawyer as soon as possible. Other critical steps to take will include prioritizing medical attention.
You are entitled to disability pay, even if the injury is minor and you are only temporarily unable to perform your job role. Beyond income replacement benefits, even if only fractional, you are probably also entitled to benefits that cover medical costs and all other expenses resulting from the injury.
Nevertheless, if you’re wondering which types of injuries are the most prominent in the workplace, we’ve listed them.
While slips and falls are widespread workplace injuries, these accidents are also a leading type of personal injury, and it’s reasonably easy to understand why.
Slips and falls can happen anywhere. However, to receive workers’ comp benefits for a slip and fall incident, it’s essential to prove that the injury occurred directly from negligence. Therefore, you probably won’t receive benefits if you slip and fall at work because you are somewhat clumsy. On the other hand, you are entitled to benefits if you slip and fall because a ‘wet floor’ warning was not provided.
Another prominent cause of injury for employees across industries is falling equipment or work supplies. If items are not stored correctly in storage rooms and other workplace areas, falling objects can strike an employee.
Work-related injuries don’t always refer to injuries on work premises. In some cases, employees are injured while carrying out job responsibilities outside the premises.
Crashes and collisions are relevant work-related injuries when employees handle deliveries and other job duties off-premises. Despite being off-premises, workers’ comp benefits are still applicable.
Illness is also relevant to workers’ comp benefits as there are countless instances in which employees become ill due to work specifics.
For example, suppose employees are exposed to harmful substances such as chemicals or toxic environments in which inhaling toxins is a concern. In that case, employees are entitled to benefits that cover the financial impacts of their illness.
Fires and explosions are slightly less common. Although, these instances are still prominent in several industries. Unfortunately, fires and explosions are typically the results of lousy health and safety standards. So, employers will be obligated to compensate employees for enduring such a frightening ordeal, even if their injuries are minor.
Other common workplace injuries include violence among employees that leads to injuries, overexertion of muscles, muscles injuries, mental exhaustion that leads to burnout, and, in unique cases, various mental conditions such as depression and crippling anxiety can also be relevant as a work-related injury or illness. That said, it’s always wise to rely on an expert workers’ comp attorney when claiming for benefits, as this is the best way to ensure you get maximum compensation for the unfortunate ordeal.