The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, has ensured that dozens of workers lose their lives being victims of some type of work accident in the United States every day. Many more suffer minor or serious injuries; however, these numbers, although impactful, are encouraging when compared to OSHA data from decades ago, when almost 38 workers died in preventable accidents every day.If you have been a victim of a work accident for which you wish to request compensation to cover your medical expenses, you should contact the Conexión Legal team as soon as possible by calling 1800 201 1220 or writing to us via WhatsApp so we can offer you the best free consultation and can connect you with a professional and experienced labor attorney in winning cases like yours.
For decades, OSHA has been collecting and reviewing information on workplace accidents to improve safety across all industries. Based on its results, we can see what the most common workplace accidents are.The five most common work accident injuries in the United States suffered in work accidents or at work, in no particular order, are:
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
To injure themselves in this way, a worker must perform the same action over and over again, day after day. Sometimes misinformation about a correct process, adequate training, or lack of equipment to perform these types of activities correctly can cause the worker to experience repetitive strain injuries, such as:
- Chronic knee pain
- RSI in the form of carpal tunnel syndrome
- Spinal injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Lower back injuries
- Overexertion injuries
Some workers may experience chronic pain, muscle or tendon tears, and other debilitating injuries from overexertion. It is common for workers to strain themselves too much when trying to lift heavy objects, which can progressively generate serious damage.
- Broken bones
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, has reported that falls from heights and falling objects onto workers are two of the leading causes of fatal accidents in the construction industry involving broken bones. It is not surprising that bone fractures are the most common injury in non-fatal work accidents in the United States.
- Head injury (TBI)
A worker who falls, is struck by an object, or becomes trapped between machines may suffer a head injury. Every worker who has suffered a work accident that could cause them a brain injury of any kind should receive immediate medical attention covered by their workplace.
- Burns
Electrical discharges are also included in OSHA's list regarding fatal injuries in the construction industry. People who survive electrocution may suffer third-degree burns that cause permanent scarring and even loss of a limb. Burns can also be caused by open flames, hot surfaces, and caustic chemicals.
How does workers' compensation work?
In many states, employers are required to offer compensation to their employees, but in some states they are exempt for those with fewer than a certain number of workers, so having a labor attorney who can help you thoroughly investigate your situation, and thus request the best possible compensation.The employer pays directly for the insurance and is generally prohibited from requiring the employee to pay the cost of coverage. As with most other types of insurance, benefits are paid when a valid claim is filed and the criteria established by state law and insurance companies are met.
What Does Workers' Compensation Cover After Suffering a Work Accident?
Workers' compensation benefits generally cover medical care and a percentage of lost wages as a result of a work accident, in most cases they are not subject to taxes.
Medical and monetary benefits may be limited to a specific period of time or may be extended if the employee requires more comprehensive services, such as advanced medical treatment, occupational rehabilitation, or training for other positions. Coverage, claim requirements, and filing times vary by state in which you are located, so your attorney must be very knowledgeable on the subject.
Remember that if you have any questions about how a work accident settlement is calculated, you should contact the Conexión Legal team as soon as possible so we can connect you with an ethical and experienced labor attorney, who can offer you the best free consultation.Follow the steps in the following form to schedule your free consultation appointment.
