Work injuries are common in many jobs, and can range from minor to severe and in some cases, life threatening or death. Some workplaces are more inherently dangerous than others, such as construction sites versus offices, however, an injury can happen at just about any work place, at any time. Here’s what you need to know about work injuries and how to get the legal help you need after being injured on the job.

Back Injuries

Back injuries are one of the most frequently sustained types of work injuries. Back injuries can not only occur as a result of repeated heavy lifting and improper lifting techniques (such as lifting with the back instead of the legs), but these injuries can also occur in individuals who sit for a large majority of their work day. While a back injury due to lifting may be a sudden, painful strain, back injuries due to sitting take time to develop and may not necessarily be connected to the job right away.

Falling Object Injuries

In many construction-type jobs and factories, falling objects are a real concern. Objects like tools can easily fall off a roof or scaffolding and strike someone below, usually in the head. Hard hats are generally a requirement on most work sites, but injuries can occur even when hard hats are being worn. The heavier the object and the higher the fall, the more damage will be sustained by the injured individual.

Falls

Falls in the workplace can occur for a variety of reasons – slick flooring, debris left out in walkways, broken concrete, and other unsafe surfaces. Injuries commonly associated with slip and falls or trip and falls include broken bones, head and brain injuries, and soft tissue injuries. If a fall occurs from a high place, such as roofing or scaffolding, the chances of injury or death are much greater.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

A frequently seen repetitive motion injury is carpal tunnel syndrome. With more and more workers using computers and technology for a large portion of the work day, carpal tunnel syndrome is a concern. Carpal tunnel develops over time and can be difficult to associate with work. However, by utilizing ergonomic keyboards and computer accessories, carpal tunnel symptoms can be reduced and the condition may be prevented.

Work Related Car Accidents

If you are involved in a car accident while driving for work (not to and from work, but driving as a part of your job duties), injuries sustained in the wreck will likely be considered work related. Also, it is possible to file a claim against the at fault driver and file a worker’s compensation claim, however consulting with an experienced attorney is critical in these type claims. Additionally, even if you are determined to be at fault for a car accident while you are working then you still have a viable workers’ compensation claim.

When to Contact an Attorney

If you or a loved one have been injured on the job, it’s critical that you reach out to a seasoned workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible. Work injuries can wreak havoc on a family. The loss of income, the complexity of dealing with an injury, transportation costs and timing, and the stress of how to navigate the system all make calling an experienced attorney absolutely necessary. The steps that you follow directly after the incident can have a significant impact on whether or not you are approved for benefits and what type of medical care you are able to receive. Contact Guest & Brady, LLC today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case by calling (864) 233-7200.