Slip and Fall Workers Compensation Claims
During the holidays, everywhere you go people seem to be in a hurry. Whether you are dealing with customers and last minute duties at work or simply rushing to get through your day to take care of holiday shopping and other tasks, it is important to slow down and stay aware of potential dangers for slip, trip, and fall injuries. As one of the leading causes of on the job injuries, these accidents are commonly cited in slip and fall workers’ compensation claims. The following outlines how you can protect yourself and what to do if a slip, trip, or fall does occur.
Slip And Fall Injuries At Work
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), slips, trips, and falls account for the majority of workplace accidents, and roughly 15 percent of work-related injury deaths. Second only to motor vehicle accidents, they impact more than 12,000 workers each year and represent a quarter of all workers’ compensation claims.
Injuries commonly caused by slips, trips, and falls include:
- Soft tissue injuries, such as muscle or tendon sprains, strains, and tears
- Broken bones, particularly in the pelvis, ankles, legs, arms, and wrists
- Back and neck injuries, including ruptured discs and fractured vertebrae
- Head injuries, including concussion, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries, resulting in partial or full paralysis.
In many cases, these injuries could have been prevented had employers followed standard safety practices.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
When Slips, Trips And Falls Occur
OSHA reports that slips, trips, and falls can occur on any type of job site, and are often the result of the following:
- Wet floors and slippery surfaces
- Cluttered aisles and walkways
- Torn or damaged flooring tiles or carpeting
- Condensation at work exits and entrances
Slips, trips, and falls are also more likely to occur when workers are forced to stock high shelves, work at heights, or on unstable surfaces without proper safety protections.
When these injuries happen during the course of your employment, you may be entitled to benefits through the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission, which can cover your medical costs and reimburse you for lost wages you suffer. To protect your rights in filing a slip and fall workers compensation claim, make sure you notify your supervisor immediately when an accident or injuries occur. Also, make an effort to get medical attention as soon as possible. Follow all doctor instructions regarding work and activity restrictions, and follow up with your employer to ensure the proper paperwork is filed.
Get Help Today
When on-the-job falls leave you with serious injuries, our experienced South Carolina workers’ compensation attorneys are here to help. Call or contact Anastopoulo Law Firm online today to request a free consultation to discuss your case or to receive more information about filing a slip and fall workers compensation claim. With offices in Charleston and at seven locations throughout the Lowcountry and Upstate, we fight for your rights so you can get the benefits you need to recover.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
