What Are Workplace Injuries?
According to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on Private Industry, over three million workers suffered from non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in the year 2017 alone. Workplace injuries typically refer to injuries resulting from fall or occupational hazards for workers resulting in sprains/strains, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and death. They can be caused by defective equipment, carelessness, and unsafe work conditions. Workplace injuries are often categorized into repetitive motion injuries, falls, slip and falls, and vehicle accidents.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries: Workplace injuries resulting from continuous repetition of the same task over and over again, resulting in bursitis, back pain, carpal tunnel, and other similar type problems. This category remains one of the most common and predominant workplace injuries.
- Slip and Fall: Slip and fall injuries sometimes fall under the workers compensation plan. These are fact specific.
- Vehicle Accident: Injuries sustained from vehicle accidents are compensable if the employee was engaged in work-related business.
What To Do After An Injury
Once an injury occurs at the workplace, it is essential that you notify your supervisor immediately. Though, be mindful that reporting requirements typically vary from state to state. If you fail to report a workplace injury within the state-stipulated period, you may forfeit your right to file worker’s compensation. Immediately after your employer is aware of the injury, they are expected to follow procedures to provide you with the medical care needed for your recovery. The employer must also notify their insurance carrier, and also file a claim with the state workers compensation board.
Your Benefits From Workplace Injury
If indeed you sustain an injury while on the job you may very well be entitled to worker’s compensation. That is, all medical expenses needed for workers’ treatment from a workplace injury. This may include prescriptions, diagnostic studies, doctors’ appointments, durable medical equipment, and perhaps even surgery. Workers compensation benefits may also attract financial compensation for loss of wages while off work. In many cases, it is two- thirds of an employee’s weekly wage.
What Is The Right Step To Take In Workplace Injury?
It is paramount to choose a Jupiter personal injury lawyer or workers compensation attorney who can look out for your interests. During your first consultation, ensure you ask about their experience and background. And also, ask about their assessment of your case. Then you know if they can handle your case. This initial consultation is vital, and it is imperative you ask all the necessary questions you need to know.