Most Common Work-Related Injuries – How to Protect Yourself & Your Rights

Neither employers nor employees want anyone to suffer a work-related injury. Unfortunately, they do happen, and as we examine what causes most workplace injuries, we are able to learn a few things to help keep ourselves and our work environment safe. If you or someone you know has been seriously hurt on the job and are finding it difficult to get the compensation you need for your medical bills, our workers’ compensation attorneys ain Camdenton and Lebanon, MO, can help. Call Deputy and Mizell at 471-532-2191 for a free consultation. If you are interested in what to look out for to avoid workplace injuries and how to protect your rights, keep reading this blog.

1) Fatigue

Just like when driving, being tired can be as dangerous as being distracted or drinking. It is easier to make mistakes or not notice hazards or skip normal safety precautions. Working extended shifts and overtime on an ongoing basis creates risks. If you are burning the candle at both ends it is especially important for you to be able to take breaks during your shift and to rest when you are off work. 2) Falls

Falls encompass a large portion of workplace injuries. They can include slipping and falling on a slick floor, falling off a ladder or some other height, falling because of a trip hazard, or because someone doesn’t see a step. For the most part, awareness, education, tidiness, and safety training are key to reducing the risk of falling at work. Proper fall protection gear is also important when employees are working at heights.

3) Overexertion

Physical tasks such as pushing, pulling, lifting, throwing, carrying, etc. can all cause injuries due to overexertion. This is especially true if they are done while in a hurry or in an awkward workspace. Having ergonomic equipment and safety training available for employees can reduce the chances of employees being hurt on the job. 4) Repetitive Tasks

Just about any job can cause injuries if it involves doing the same motion over and over again for long periods of time. Repetitive tasks can cause injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as strains, tears, sprains, etc. that can eventually lead to the need for surgery. Once again, ergonomics and training may help reduce the damage some repetitive tasks cause to the body.

5) Getting Hit by Object/Equipment

Being struck by equipment, or crushed by machinery, running into an object like a low beam, getting hit by a flying object, or being struck by a vehicle are all examples of common work-related injuries. This is an example where fatigue can be a contributing factor as well. Having a culture that emphasizes awareness, obvious warning signs for dangerous areas, safety training for all, and regular inspections to identify hazards are all good ideas for preventing injuries at work. How Workman’s Compensation Works

The worker’s compensation system works as an agreement between employees and employers that allows employees to receive benefits regardless of who is at fault, and in exchange for exempting the employer from most lawsuits. Sometimes, however, it doesn’t work as it should. Employers and their insurance companies sometimes put their bottom line over the needs of the employee and may try to make it difficult for the employee to receive the proper compensation.

There are some specific situations when an employer can still be sued regarding a worker’s compensation claim. They are:

The employee was fired for filing a workers’ comp claim.
The employer or a coworker intentionally caused harm to the employee.
The employee did not receive the workers’ compensation benefits they were entitled to.

At Deputy and Mizell, we are passionate about representing work injury victims in Mid-Missouri and fighting to get them the compensation they are due. Worker’s compensation cases can be very overwhelming for victims, and often they are not really aware of their rights. Our experienced worker’s compensation attorneys in Lebanon know how to help. Call the Lebanon office using the number below for a free initial consultation.