Here are 10 most common workers’ compensation claims
Workers’ compensation claims are an unfortunately common reality for many employees in the United States. Every year, workers of all types face a variety of workplace-related injuries that require medical attention and time off work. Though laws vary from state to state, employers must generally provide their employees with some form of financial help when they are injured on the job. To better understand what kinds of injuries may occur in a workplace environment, here is a list of the 10 most common workers’ compensation claims across the nation.
By learning about these claims, employers can better prepare themselves and take preventative measures to ensure their employees remain safe and healthy while on the job. With this knowledge, hopefully fewer people will be affected by workplace injury in the future.
1. Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, are the most common type of workers’ compensation claim. These injuries can occur when employees repeat a specific movement or task over and over again, leading to strain on the muscles and other tissues around the affected area.
2. Back Injuries
Back injuries are another common type of workers’ compensation claim. Employees who suffer from back pain due to carrying heavy objects or engaging in manual labor may be eligible for benefits under their company’s workers’ compensation policy.
3. Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are also common causes of worker injury that may be covered by workers’ compensation. These types of accidents can occur in any workplace, but they are more likely to happen in environments that are not well maintained or lack safety features such as handrails or non-skid floors.
4. Stress and Mental Health Conditions
Stress and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety can also lead to workers’ compensation claims. This is particularly true for employees who have been subjected to a hostile work environment or unreasonable expectations on the job.
5. Chemical Exposure
Workers exposed to hazardous chemicals may become sick due to exposure, leading to workers’ compensation claims for related medical expenses and lost wages while recovering from the illness. Additionally, workers with long-term exposure may develop chronic health conditions due to their exposure.
6. Vehicle Accidents
Workers who are required to operate a company vehicle or regularly drive for work-related purposes may be eligible for workers’ compensation if they are injured in an accident while on the job. This includes accidents involving company vehicles as well as those involving personal vehicles used for work purposes.
7. Machinery Accidents
Operating machinery can be dangerous, and workers can suffer serious injuries if not properly trained or supervised when using equipment like forklifts, lathes, drill presses, and other industrial machines. If a worker is injured while operating such equipment, they may be able to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits depending on the situation.
8. Falling Objects
Working at heights is risky, and falls from ladders can cause significant injuries to workers. Additionally, objects such as tools or construction materials that are stored in high places may become dislodged and fall on unsuspecting workers below.
9. Fires and Explosions
Fires and explosions are another potential source of danger for many types of workers. While these accidents are rare, they do happen, and employees who suffer injuries due to fires or explosions may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
10. Heat Stress
Finally, heat stress is a common type of injury among outdoor laborers working in hot climates with little shade or air conditioning available to keep them cool during the day. If a worker becomes ill due to heat stress, they may be able to obtain workers’ compensation benefits for their medical expenses and lost wages while recovering.
No matter the cause of injury, it is important that any employee who has suffered an on-the-job injury immediately contact an attorney at https://workerscompensationlawyersla.com, seek medical attention so they can begin the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim. Doing so can help ensure that employees receive the medical care and financial assistance they need to recover from their injuries.
*This content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as legal advice. Please consult with an attorney if you have any questions about filing a workers’ compensation claim.*
