People suffer workplace injuries with alarming frequency in California. Nearly 50,000 people were hurt on the job in one recent year alone. In 63 percent of those cases, the injured person had to miss work, change jobs, or work under restricted conditions due to their injuries. In many of these cases, the injured worker was entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to pay for their medical care and offset a large percentage of their lost income.
At the law firm of Solov & Teitell we are committed to helping workers stay safe on the job and pursuing the benefits they deserve when they get hurt. Read on to learn more about some of the most injuries that give rise to workers’ compensation claims, and don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
The Most Common Workers’ Comp Injuries
Sprains – A sprain is when a ligament becomes stretched or torn. Ligaments are made of fibrous materials that connect bones to other bones, and a sprain can significantly limit your mobility and ability to do certain activities.
Strains – A strain is when a muscle or tendon becomes stretched or torn. Tendons have a similar function to ligaments and are made of similar materials, but they connect bones to muscles rather than other bones. A strained muscle or tendon can have similar effects on your mobility as a sprain.
Contusions – “Contusion” is the medical term for a bruise. Severe contusions that affect muscles, ligaments, or tendons can have permanent effects.
Lacerations – “Laceration” is the medical term for a cut affecting soft tissues (skin, muscles, ligaments, tendons, etc.). Lacerations can cause severe bleeding and lead to infections if not treated properly.
Punctures – A puncture wound occurs when a sharp or pointed object pierces the skin, sometimes becoming lodged in your body. Even when puncture wounds don’t bleed heavily, they can become infected and can lead to severe complications.
How to Prevent These Common Injuries
The best way to avoid the pain and expense of a workplace injury is to prevent it in the first place. You can do so by:
- Using personal protective equipment
- Taking required breaks
- Attending safety training classes and paying attention
- Disposing of hazardous materials properly
- Staying in touch with your safety supervisor or manager
Most Common Causes of Worker Injuries
While there are many ways that a workplace injury can occur, the four most common causes of workplace injuries are known as the “Fatal Four:”
- Transportation accidents
- Falls from heights
- Electric shocks and electrocution
- Equipment entanglements