It is not uncommon for workers to slip and fall while at work, which can result in a serious injury that leaves them with high medical expenses and having to take time off. To ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve, you may need the help of a workers' compensation attorney. Keep reading to learn more about work-related slip and fall accidents.
Why Do Slip and Fall Accidents Occur at Work?
Many workers miss time off of work as a result of slips and falls at work. Some workers may even suffer fatal injuries due to slip and falls. This is particularly true in the construction industry, but these accidents can also take place in the retail and health service industries.
Some of the workers that are more vulnerable to slip and falls at work are construction workers, janitors, maintenance workers, material movers, and the like. Although it is true that any person can fall while working, the most common reasons for a slip and fall accident to take place is due to spills or wet products on the floor, debris on the floor, holes in the floor, uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, loose rugs or floorboards, improperly maintained walkways, or even lack of sufficient training. You can expect the risk of a slip and fall to increase as winter weather arrives.
What Types of Injuries Are Common with Slip and Fall Accidents?
A slip and fall accident can result in very serious injuries like whiplash, concussions, fractures, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and temporary or permanent paralysis. Unfortunately, in some cases, it can even result in death. There are some instances when individuals don't immediately seek medical attention or report the accident, resulting in the injuries becoming much worse. Failing to report a slip and fall accident only hurts the individual, as it makes it much more difficult—sometimes impossible—to obtain workers' compensation benefits or pursue legal action against the appropriate party.
Can a Workers' Compensation Claim Be Filed?
Under most circumstances, work-related slip and fall accidents can be covered by workers' compensation. Some potential benefits that may be able to be recovered include medical treatment, lost wage benefits, and death benefits for surviving family members.
Can Legal Action Be Pursued?
As a general rule, lawsuits cannot be filed against employers for injuries that occurred at work. However, if a negligent third party is involved, legal action may be able to be taken against them. This may include an independent contractor or a property owner who failed to maintain safe premises. A lawsuit against a third party may help the worker recover monetary damages beyond the workers' compensation benefits. These damages may include pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and loss of enjoyment of life.
If you have suffered a slip and fall accident at work and believe you may have a claim against a third party or have been denied workers' compensation benefits, contact a personal injury attorney for more information.
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