Mansfield Workers' Compensation Lawyers

1. Overexertion Injuries – This includes injuries related to pulling, lifting, pushing, holding, carrying, and throwing activities at work. Overexertion not only consistently been the number one workplace injury according but is also the most expensive.

2. Slipping/Tripping – The number 2 cause of workplace injuries, this pertains to falls on wet and slippery floors or trips over something lying on the floor. Attention to what is going on around them is required of employees and employers will have safety guidelines to ensure spills are promptly cleaned and no debris is present which can be dangerous.

3. Falling from Heights – This type of fall happens from an elevated area such as roofs, ladders, and stairways.  They can be caused by slip and fall accidents or due to faulty equipment.  These types of accidents can be reduced by the use of proper personal protection gear, training and employee diligence.

4. Vehicle Accidents – Employees who drive for business purposes are often injured in car accidents or truck accidents, some of which can be fatal.  Employee Safe-Driver training and employer safe driving policies are likely to reduce accidents.

5. Repetitive Motion Injuries – This type of workplace injury is one of those less obvious but definitely harmful in the long run. Repetitive motions such as typing and using the computer 24/7 can strain muscles and tendons causing back pain, vision problems, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Employee training and the use of proper ergonomic equipment can help keep these incidents low.

Training, diligence and proper safety equipment are instrumental elements to reducing workplace accidents and injuries, but when it comes to bringing workers home safe, it is not enough. Education is what takes workplace safety to the next level. If you are injured at the workplace, you should follow these steps to ensure that you meet the requirements to collect your workers’ compensation:

• Get immediate medical care.
• Document your personal injury with your employer, immediately.
• If your injury is one that builds up over time, report it as soon as you discover that it may be work-related.

Your employer has responsibilities when you have been hurt on the job. They are required by Louisiana law Title 23 to have Workers’ Compensation insurance in the event that you, or a co-worker, are injured at work. This insurance will protect you when you get hurt and will help cover your:

• Lost wages
• Medical bills
• Temporary or permanent disability benefits
• Death benefits, for fatal accidents

If you or a co-worker are hurt while working, your employer must take your personal injury seriously and document the facts around an accident. They must also make sure an accident investigation is carried out to help reveal the root of the problem and point toward safety improvements.