Every workplace has a responsibility to uphold ethical standards and foster a safe environment for its employees. However, certain organizations fail to do so, which can lead to costly workplace injuries or even fatalities among staff. A workplace injury (also known as a work injury or an occupational injury) is any type of injury or illness that a person experiences in direct relation to their occupational requirements. As an employee, it’s important to understand workplace injuries so that you know what to look out for and what to do in the event that you experience one yourself. Below is your comprehensive guide to understanding work injuries.
What Are Some of the Most Common Types of Workplace Injuries?
There are a variety of workplace injuries an employee could sustain, ranging from mild to quite severe. According to a 2019 report, some of the most common non-fatal workplace injuries experienced in the United States include:
- Strains, sprains, and tears – roughly 35 injuries for every 10,000 full-time employees
- Soreness and/or muscle pain – roughly 18 injuries for every 10,000 full-time employees
- Cuts, punctures, and lacerations – roughly nine injuries for every 10,000 full-time employees
- Bruises and contusions – roughly nine injuries for every 10,000 full-time employees
- Fractures – roughly eight injuries for every 10,000 full-time employees
While less common, fatal workplace injuries still occur each year. Over the past five years, the number of fatal workplace accidents has risen each year, with just one exception: in 2018, more fatalities were reported than in any of the previous five years. The most common causes of fatal workplace accidents include:
- Transportation accidents (e.g. car and trucking crashes) – 2,080 deaths in the most recent year
- Violence or other physical wounds caused by other persons or animals on the job – 828 deaths in the most recent year
- Falls, trips, and slips – 792 deaths in the most recent year
- Injuries sustained from objects and equipment – 786 deaths in the most recent year
- Exposure to dangerous substances and/or hazardous environments – 621 deaths in the most recent year
- Fires or explosions – 115 deaths in the most recent year
I’ve Been the Victim of a Workplace Injury – What Can I Do?
If you have experienced a workplace injury that was caused by your employer’s negligence or unsafe working conditions, you have the right to pursue legal action. You could potentially secure compensation to cover your medical bills as well as emotional damages and lost income. No matter the situation, when you need to navigate the legal system and make a claim, hiring a lawyer is your best option.
With that in mind, consider hiring an experienced attorney who specializes in work injuries and worker’s compensation. By using their expertise and unique skills, they can greatly assist in developing a strong case and improve your chances of securing both justice and compensation.
Workplace injuries are still a prominent issue in the U.S. As a result, as an employee, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various types of injuries workers might sustain so you can know how to properly protect yourself. It’s also vital to understand how to attain justice and compensation in the event that you are the victim of a workplace injury. In arming yourself with this knowledge, you will be better prepared to handle these often overwhelming matters with confidence and ease.
