At the end of 2020, many risk management and insurance firms took stock of the year in workplace injuries. In their 2020 Workplace Safety Index, Liberty Mutual reported on the top 10 causes of disabling workplace injuries and summarized the annual cost of these injuries per year.
Causes of Workplace Injuries 2020
Among the top 10 causes of disabling workplace injuries were a few that we see very often at GLS Injury Law.Â
Object or Equipment Related Workplace Injuries
Four of the top 10 causes of disabling workplace injuries reported by Liberty Mutual involve objects or equipment at the work site. From objects or equipment falling on an employee, to handling/moving heavy objects or colliding into equipment or objects, these incidents can cause major injuries.
Examples might include sustaining a back strain from lifting heavy boxes, having a piece of equipment or heavy item fall on you from a storage space, or getting a concussion from colliding with something in your workplace.Â
Workplace Falls
Another very common injury at the workplace is falls. From slip and falls on slippery surfaces or ice, to falls from scaffolding, ladders or equipment, injuries from falls are often long-lasting. Neck, back or spinal injuries, concussions and even brain damage could occur from a fall depending on the height or severity of the fall.
Thousands of fall claims are made each and every year. Many people who fall victim to these types of accidents suffer catastrophic, life-altering injuries which, in the most serious cases, can result in wrongful death.
Workplace Vehicle Accidents
If you drive for work, you are at risk for workplace vehicle accidents. Whether you are operating a construction vehicle, a semi-truck or a company car, if you are involved in an accident while driving for you could be eligible for workers’ compensation.
Employers are required to have auto insurance coverage as well as workers’ compensation insurance coverage. The auto insurance would cover any damage to the work vehicle itself as well as damage to the other vehicle involved in the accident — including the other driver, depending on the nature of the accident. If you are involved in an accident while operating a work vehicle, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits that would potentially cover your medical expenses as well as any wage loss.
Industries with Frequent Workplace Injuries
The 2020 Workplace Safety Index breaks down the analysis even further, looking into industries where workplace injuries are common. At GLS Injury Law, we service clients in every one of these industries, and more, including:
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Hospitality
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Transportation
- Professional services
Hurt at Work? Call 717-394-3004
If you experience one of these workplace injuries, be sure to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you get compensated. At GLS Injury Law, our attorneys deal with these injuries daily and know how to fight the insurance companies to get you justice. Call today for a free consultation.
