.png)
Workplace accidents are a serious issue that can lead to significant injuries, fatalities, and financial losses. Every year, countless workers across the United States suffer from accidents that occur on the job.
Understanding the most common types of workplace accidents and the injuries they cause is crucial for victims who are planning to take legal action against responsible parties. Fortunately, this article provides all the information injured employees may need about this important topic.
What Are Workplace Accidents?
A workplace accident is any incident that occurs at the job site or while performing job-related activities and results in injury, illness, or property damage. The consequences of such events can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and even fatalities.
Stats About Workplace Injuries in Missouri
Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) revealed a concerning trend in workplace safety in Missouri. Between 2012 and 2021, the state experienced a significant increase of 64% in job-related injuries.
Fatal workplace injuries saw a substantial rise, too, increasing from 88 in 2012 to 147 in 2021. This represents a rate increase from 3.3 to 5.4 fatalities per 100,000 injuries.
So far in 2024, the total number of workplace injuries has been high. Between January and September, 64,278 workers were injured while on duty. According to information provided by the local government, 53 people have lost their lives in work-related incidents this year alone.
Such alarming statistics places Missouri among the states with the highest growth in fatal workplace injuries over the past decade.
Types of Workplace Accidents and Common Injuries Caused by Them
Although employers must follow standards to ensure workplace safety, such as urging workers to use personal protective equipment and maintain hazard-free spaces, accidents still happen.
These are the most common workplace injuries and the accidents that usually cause them:
Motor Vehicle Accidents at Work
Motor vehicle accidents involving company vehicles or employee-owned vehicles used for work purposes are a common cause of workplace injuries, including the following:
Head injuries, such as concussions and severe brain trauma
Neck injuries, such as whiplash
Back injuries, such as herniated discs and spinal cord injuries
Internal injuries, such as organ damage and internal bleeding
Soft-tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and muscle tears
Fractures
Burns
Slip and Fall Injuries at Work
Slips and falls are another common type of workplace accident, often occurring due to wet floors, icy conditions, or uneven surfaces and leading to the following injuries:
Head injuries
Neck and back injuries
Broken bones
Dislocations
Lacerations and cuts
Sprains and strains
Falls from Heights at Work
Falls from heights, such as ladders, scaffolding, or roofs, can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Some examples include:
Head injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones
Internal injuries
Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Eye injuries
Fires and Explosions at Work
Fires and explosions can occur in various industries, such as manufacturing and construction, and cause the following injuries:
Burns and other heat-related injuries
Smoke inhalation and other respiratory injuries
Heatstroke
Eye injury
Amputation
Physiological trauma
Electrocution at Work
Electrocution can occur when workers come into contact with live electrical wires or equipment. These incidents can cause from mild to serious injuries, such as:
Burns
Electric shock
Cardiac arrest
Muscle contractions
Respiratory arrest
Nervous system damage
Repetitive Motion Injuries at Work
Repetitive motion injuries are common among office workers and assembly line workers who usually perform the same movements repeatedly with their bodies. Below are the most common:
Intense back and neck pain
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Tendinitis
Bursitis
Tenosynovitis
Trigger finger
Rotator cuff tendonitis
Epicondylitis
Blows with or Against Objects at Work
Blows with or against objects can happen in various workplace settings, such as construction sites and warehouses. These accidents often occur when workers fail to wear the required safety equipment or when working conditions are hazardous. Common associated injuries include:
Concussions
Fractures
Bruises
Lacerations and cuts
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Overexertion Injuries at Work
Overexertion injuries can occur when workers lift heavy objects or perform physically demanding tasks.
Muscle strains
Back injuries
Joint, tendon, and connective tissue injuries
Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs)
Heat-related injuries
Entanglement Accidents at Work
Entanglement accidents are those incidents where a person's body or clothing becomes caught in machinery with moving parts and can occur in various industries, such as manufacturing and construction. These are the most common injuries they cause:
Fractures
Amputations
Crush injuries
Soft-tissue injuries
Scalping
Workplace Violence
Workplace violence can take many forms, including physical assault, threats, and harassment.
Who Can Be Liable for Workplace Injuries?
In Missouri, workers who are injured on the job may be eligible to file a workers' compensation claim under a type of insurance that provides benefits to injured workers, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
However, in some cases, injured workers may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party, such as a negligent employer, property owner, or equipment manufacturer. For more information, a workers comp lawyer in St Louis may be able to help.
Legal Options Available for Workplace Accident Victims in Missouri
These are the legal options Missouri offers in cases involving workplace accidents:
Workers' Compensation
Missouri's workers' compensation laws provide benefits to injured workers, regardless of who is liable.
These benefits can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability payments. However, workers' compensation is often a limited remedy, and it may not fully compensate victims for all their losses.
Personal Injury Lawsuits
As mentioned, in some cases, injured workers may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party to recover compensation for the injuries suffered. This can be a complex process, and it's crucial to consult with an experienced attorney to determine if a lawsuit is viable.
Settlement Negotiations
In many cases, workplace injury claims are resolved through settlement negotiations.
Insurance companies may offer a payment to avoid going to court, but the amount is usually low. Victims often need legal representation throughout negotiations to secure a fair offer.
Courtroom Litigation
If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial. A skilled attorney can represent victims' interests in court and advocate for their rights. They can also assist with common injuries for a dog bite.
Final Thoughts: Seeking Help from a Workplace Injury Attorney
Workplace accidents can have a devastating impact on the lives of injured workers and their families. Therefore, those who have been involved in these situations should seek legal advice as soon as possible. This advice can also be helpful when needing information on common injuries for medical malpractice.
Contact Powell Law Firm to Find an Experienced Workplace Injury Lawyer in Missouri Today!
Accidents and injuries occur at job sites every day, even when proper precautions are taken. However, that doesn't mean you don't deserve compensation.
After sustaining an injury on the job, you need a legal team that understands your situation. Fortunately, Powell Law Firm is here to fight for your rights.
Our experienced attorneys will handle your case with compassion and expertise, ensuring you receive the compensation you're entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Comentarios