According to a review of more than 1.5 million workers compensation claims, strains and sprains are the most common worker injury, with most injuries resulting from handling materials in industries such as manufacturing and retail.
The breakdown in claims between 2010 an 2014 from the country’s largest workers compensation carrier reveals the top five worker injuries include strains and sprains at 30%, cuts and punctures 19 %, contusions 12%, inflammation 5% and fractures at 5%.
The causes of injuries range from material handling, slips trips and falls, being struck or colliding with an object to accidents involving tools and repetitive strain injuries.
Although sprains and strains topped the list for most businesses, eye injuries were the most common for both construction and manufacturing. Falls from heights was among the top causes of injuries in both the construction and retail industries. Motor vehicle accidents topped the list only in oil and gas industries.
Workers’ compensation industry experts note that most injuries reported can be prevented if proper safety measures are in place. Even minor injuries can impact employees so employers should take proactive steps to ensure the safety of their workforce.
If you have been injured on the job, contact the Des Moines workers’ compensation Law Offices of Stoltze & Stoltze PLC for help. The actions you take after a workplace injury can significantly impact your chances of success in obtaining workers’ compensation benefits. The sooner you can talk to a knowledgeable lawyer about your case, the better chance you have of receiving the compensation you are entitled to, avoiding pitfalls that may lead to a denial of your claim.
Source: National Law Review, “Workers’ Compensation: Five Most Common Injuries” accessed December 18, 2016.
