Accidents can happen at any time – when you're driving to the airport when you're at the grocery store, or even when you're at work. People who work in high-risk jobs such as construction or manufacturing are often prone to workplace injuries, but they're not the only people at risk.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were nearly three million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in the private sector in 2011. Additionally, there were 4,693 fatal work injuries in the United States, 226 of which occurred in Florida.
Many times, workers' compensation laws protect the injured worker, but there are instances where an injured worker also needs the services of an experienced personal injury attorney.
Most common workplace injuries
Whether you work at a construction site, factory, or at an office, there is a range of common accidents and injuries that occur in the workplace. Here are the most common workplace injuries:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Motor vehicle accidents occur across all industries and involve people who transport people and freight, employees who drive company vehicles, and even pedestrian workers who are hit by drivers. If you are required to drive for work, make sure you pay attention to the road and are alert at all times.
- Falls, slips, and trips: Falls, slips, and trips are common injuries in the workplace and often are the result of wet or damaged floors, debris, and other obstructions. Common injuries as a result of falls, slips, and trips are broken bones, head injuries, and injured backs.
- Machinery injuries: Machine entanglement injuries most often occur in factories where heavy machinery and equipment are used. Injuries occur when loose clothing, shoes, jewelry, fingers, and unbound hair becomes caught in the machines.
- Workplace hazards: Depending on the nature of your work, you're more prone to injuries on the job hazards such as chemicals and fires, which can result in burns and explosions.
- Overexertion: This includes injuries related to pulling, lifting, pushing and carrying activities that occur at work. If you work in this type of environment, you're more susceptible to back injuries, heart problems, muscle injuries, and even broken bones. Overexertion is often considered the number one workplace injury and accounts for approximately $13.6 billion in benefits costs annually.
- Repetitive motion: This type of workplace injury is less obvious and harmful than the others, but it can still have a negative impact on you in the long run. Repetitive motions such as typing or using a computer frequently can strain muscles causing back pain, vision problems, frequent headaches, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
How to Avoid Workplace Injuries
Generally, workplace injuries arise from unsafe work practices and hazardous conditions. Even though accidents aren't always predictable, understanding workplace safety will allow you to minimize workplace injuries. Some of the most important safety precautions include inspecting equipment, providing workers with proper safety gear, and posting signs warning of hazards.
Before starting a new job duty, make sure you know and follow all safety precautions. Make sure you have the proper equipment needed to complete a specific job duty and that you're informed of the risks involved. Additionally, being overly tired at work creates an increased risk if you're involved in activities that require concentration and quick response, and it's important that you get enough sleep every night.
If you or a loved one, has been injured due to someone else's negligence, either on the job, in a car accident or in any other way - don't delay. Contact the Dellutri Law Group today for a free, no-obligation consultation! Call us at (800) 391-4337 or you can request a Free Consultation online. Our team of dedicated attorneys and staff are here to help!
