Sustaining an injury while at work can affect many aspects of a worker’s life. The injury can require substantial medical treatment and may also force the worker to take unexpected time off from his or her work. Following a workplace accident, it is important to be compensated for the injuries sustained in order to continue treatment as well as to continue providing for family. California allows workers to seek compensation by filing a workers’ compensation claim with a lawyer and in certain cases, through a personal injury claim.

Statistics on Workplace Accidents

Injuries that were sustained at work or illnesses that developed as a result of the workplace environment are both very common. According to the National Safety Council, there were over 4.8 million workplace accident injuries reported across the nation in 2013. During the same year, approximately 3,800 workers lost their lives as a result of a workplace accident or illness. Employees who work in certain fields or industries have a greater risk of suffering a workplace injury. Statistics indicate that the following industries are associated with the highest number of accidents in the workplace each year:

• Mining
• Agriculture
• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Transportation
• Retail
• Utilities
• Warehousing

A majority of workplace victims are employed in the private sector. According to reports, approximately 78% of the injuries sustained in the workplace are endured by workers employed in private companies.

Common Causes of Accidents

A workplace accident can occur as a result of multiple reasons. The National Safety Council has reported that the following factors are among the leading causes of accidents in the workplace:

• Bodily reaction to a workplace environment;
• Overexertion;
• Slip, trip, or fall; and
• Impact with equipment or object

Other common causes include equipment malfunction, inhalation of toxic fumes, chemical exposure, and even inadequate training.

Injuries Associated With a Workplace Accident

A workplace accident can cause serious and even life-threatening injuries. Commonly cited injuries include:

• Cuts and lacerations,
• Broken bones,
• Concussions,
• Hearing or vision impairments,
• Spinal cord injuries,
• Paralysis,
• Traumatic brain injuries,
• Amputations, or
• Wrongful death

Other ailments involve a developed illness, such as cancer or allergies, which can sometimes be caused by overexposure of a harmful chemical.

Following a Workplace Accident, Recover the Damages You Are Owed – Speak to a Qualified Personal Injury Attorney

Any of the aforementioned cases will require immediate medical attention and will usually be accompanied with extensive medical bills. Fortunately, the State of California will allow injured workers the opportunity to obtain compensation by filing a workers’ compensation claim. Under certain situations, the injured worker can seek compensation through a personal injury claim.

If you were injured while at work, it is critical to act quickly and seek the legal support of a qualified personal injury attorney. Filing a claim against the negligent party can help you recover the compensation you are owed.

Personal injury attorney Albert E. Hirst has worked many years helping workers obtain compensation by means or a workers’ compensation claim or through a personal injury claim against a third-party. Workers’ compensation claims are often complex legal matters that demand a well-versed and experienced attorney. Consider contacting the Law Offices of Albert E. Hirst for a free case evaluation today.