When we go into our workplaces, we expect to be able to get our work done in a safe environment that is free from hazards. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, and workers can sustain injuries from a company’s negligence or disregard for safety. Work injuries can be very physically and emotionally taxing, and in some cases, very costly.
If you were recently injured at work or are wondering what work injuries could lead to financial compensation, consult with our attorneys. We can answer any questions you have about workers’ compensation claims and help you file a claim for benefits from your employer.
Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common accidents in the workplace. In fact, 85% of all workers’ compensation claims are made by employees who have fallen due to slippery floors. These claims tend to be more successful because it is easier to argue that a company’s negligence contributed to a worker’s fall, and the physical injuries associated with trips and spills in the workplace can be severe and debilitating.
The most common injuries associated with these falls are hip and head fractures, which can lead to expensive medical bills down the road. A lot of compensation can be lost, with injured workers averaging about 30 days’ worth of pay loss due to slip and fall accidents.
Exposure to Hazardous Substances
Exposure to hazardous materials and chemical substances can also lead to serious workplace injuries and illnesses. Exposure of this nature accounted for over 400,000 workplace injuries in 2020 alone. Common hazardous substances found in some workplaces include:
- Pesticides
- Paint
- Disinfectant
- Heavy metals (mercury, lead)
- Acids
- Other toxic chemical products
If you are repeatedly exposed to these substances without proper work equipment or training to handle them, the consequences may necessitate ongoing medical treatment. Side effects of being exposed to toxic substances over long periods of time include:
- Headaches
- Skin rashes
- Chemical burns
- Poisoning
- Birth defects if working while pregnant
Dangerous or Defective Equipment
Injuries resulting from faulty equipment are also extremely common in the workplace and are the third leading cause of death in the workplace. Over 190,000 workers were injured by defective work equipment in the year 2020, and 716 of those cases were fatal. Examples of how these injuries can happen include getting struck by a piece of machinery, getting caught or stuck in the machinery, or the friction and pressure of the equipment.
How Do I Know if I Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?
The best way to know whether your injuries qualify you for workers’ compensation is by contacting a team of lawyers who are experienced in handling these cases. Reach out to Costa Ivone Injury Lawyers for any questions, concerns, or if you’re looking to pursue a workers’ comp claim.
