Common Worker's Compensation Injuries

Common workplace injuries can jeopardize your long-term health and financial future

Work may be drudgery, but you don’t expect it to be dangerous. Even if you work in a risky profession like construction or chemical production, you expect there to be safeguards in place to protect you. If you work in a commercial atmosphere, like a business office, your expectation for injury may be zero. Yet every day, workers around the country are injured on the job. Some may experience minor injuries like scrapes and cuts, but some may become so severely injured that they require extensive medical care and may even lose their ability to work. Some injuries may seem minor at first, but they can develop into major problems later. Some injuries may not even be evident at first, as they can involve chronic health conditions that develop over time as a result to toxic chemical exposure.

Whatever your workplace injuries, working with an experienced Florida workers’ compensation attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve, either for your immediate medical care or for your ongoing health needs. Serious injuries may require multiple surgeries and long-term rehabilitative or support care. A Florida workers’ compensation attorney from the Rooth Law Firm can help you get a settlement that will cover all your expected health care costs, as well as time lost from work, and even the pain and suffering you have experienced.

Minor workplace injuries

The Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention both maintain data on workplace injuries. They report that some of the most common minor injuries include:

• Cuts
• Scrapes
• Fractures
• Sprains
• Broken bones
• Burns
• Overexertion injuries
• Injuries from motor vehicle accidents

These injuries are most commonly caused by minor accidents, such as slips and falls. However, anything can happen in any work situation. A box could fall off a shelf, hitting someone and causing a dislocated shoulder. A malfunctioning coffee pot can cause a serious burn. A leg can fall off improperly maintained furniture, causing the person to fall and hit their head, getting a concussion. You do not have to work in a dangerous environment to be vulnerable to these injuries.

The BLS and CDC also report that workplace violence results in a large number of injuries each year, including violence between employees or as a result with encounters with animals. Violence can involve a simple fist fight or it can escalate to more life-threatening situations. All it takes is a disgruntled worker showing up with a knife or gun to cause serious harm to a lot of workers. Your employer is responsible for creating a safe workplace and preventing these injuries, such as by ensuring proper maintenance of the facilities, installing security measures, and developing a safety program.

Even a minor injury, such as a simple burn can turn into a long-term problem. For example, it could become infected and require extensive reconstructive surgery. You could even lose sensation or mobility as a result. Repetitive motion injuries can also cause long-term damage, such as muscle damage from repetitive typing at a workstation that is not properly ergonomically designed.

Working with the right Florida workers’ compensation attorney can help you get the full compensation you deserve, even for minor injuries. Our workers’ compensation attorney works with a team of experts to review your case and determine the full extent to which your injuries can impact your life. Doctors and other healthcare professionals will testify about your expected long-term care and how the injury impacts your quality of life. Never dismiss an injury, even if it seems minor. Always consult with a doctor and talk with your attorney about your legal rights.

Workplace negligence and violations can cause major workplace injuries

Some industries have a higher risk for more damaging workplace injuries, such as construction and industrial manufacturing. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration says that the most frequently cited workplace violations leading to injuries include:

• Fall protection
• Scaffolding and ladders
• Respiratory protection
• Electrical wiring
• Industrial trucks
• Heavy machinery
• Electrical systems design

As a result of these violations, many workers are injured in falls, are struck by falling objects, are electrocuted, or are trapped between objects, such as between a piece of heavy machinery and a building. These injuries can be severe, involving significant head trauma, the loss of mobility or even the loss of a limb, disfiguring burns, and chronic pain. Those who suffer these injuries may require extensive surgeries and lifelong medical care. Some may never be able to work again. Some may even die. Serious workplace injuries also include chronic health conditions as a result of chemical exposure. For example, some ship workers developed mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos over time. These illnesses require lifelong care, and they can be life-threatening.

Getting the right legal representation is key to getting the compensation you need. An experienced Florida workers’ compensation attorney from the Rooth Law Firm can build a strong case showing the full extent of your injuries and proving the negligence of your employer, helping you to get the maximum compensation allowed under the law. When you are dealing with long-term injuries, showing the full extent of the financial and emotional cost to you can be complicated. Our team is dedicated to building a strong case based on expert medical testimony and review, ensuring you get the full settlement you deserve.

Call a Board Certified Florida workers’ compensation attorney today. We take cases to win

The Florida workers’ compensation attorney at the Rooth Law Firm is Board Certified in workers’ compensation law by the Florida Bar Association and has been getting results for Florida residents who were injured on the job for decades. We understand how devastating a work injury can be, not only to your finances, but also to your overall quality of life. We provide compassionate representation while serving as a tough legal advocate. Call us today at (727) 849-3400 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. With offices in New Port Richey, Clearwater, Spring Hill and Seminole, attorney Joe Rooth represents clients throughout Tampa Bay and the Central Guld Coast area of Florida.