Work-related injuries happen every day and in every line of work. Generally, when people think of workers’ compensation claims, they think of construction workers or other trades, but so many more people are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
In Ohio, every employer with one or more employees must have workers’ compensation insurance. This means that, excluding independent contractors, a large majority of everyone working in our state is eligible for benefits. With so many people governed by the workers’ compensation commission, there must be clear guidelines about what types of injuries are included.
An injury covered by workers’ compensation is any injury that occurs “in connection with work” or “in the course of employment.”
Determining whether an injury happened “in the course of employment” can sometimes be a difficult process and is usually subject to different interpretations. That is why it is important to talk to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer who can help you navigate the process.
Workers’ compensation injury claims are usually split into one of two categories: acute injuries or occupational disease claims. Acute injuries are injuries that happen suddenly during one incident. Occupational disease claims are injuries that are the result of repeated activity or consistent exposure over a period of time. Work injuries can happen for a number of different reasons.
Here is a list of 10 common causes of work-related injuries:
1. Repetitive Motion Injuries
- Injuries that may not be harmful initially, but are damaging in the long run
- Strain from constantly sitting at a computer
- Problems associated with lifting the same thing over and over again
2. Vehicle Accidents
- Being involved in a motor vehicle accident when you have to commute/travel for work
- Delivery jobs that involve a lot of driving
- Commuting to meet with clients
3. Injuries from Serious Falls
- Working from an elevated area, i.e. painting, roofing, warehouse
- Falls may be due to faulty equipment, unsafe conditions, or carelessness of the employee
4. Injuries from Tripping or Slipping
- Number two cause of work-related injuries
- Slippery floor, unsafe conditions, carelessness of the employee
5. Reaction Injuries
- Failing to react quickly enough to prevent injury in the work environment
- Walking into things
- Pulled muscles, contusions, etc.
- Unsafe working conditions and carelessness
6. Injuries from Machines/Equipment
- Failure to use protective gear
- Getting tangled with machines
- Malfunctioning machine/equipment
- Improper usage
7. Injuries from Falling Objects
- Objects falling from elevated areas
- Resulting in head injuries, etc.
- Unsafe work environment
- Carelessness
8. Exposure to Toxic Substances
- Exposure to Asbestos
- Extended exposure to chemicals
- Aggravated sensitivities due to extended exposure
9. Loss of Limbs
- Losing a body part due to malfunctioning machine
- Failure to follow safety precautions
- Permanent disability
10. Overexertion Injuries
- Number one workplace injury
- Lifting, pushing, holding, carrying, throwing, pulling
- Back problems, hernia
If you have experienced any of these injuries while working in Ohio, you may be entitled to benefits. To protect your rights, you have to call me right away at 1 (800) 556-4769.
As your Ohio workers’ compensation lawyer, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For 33 years, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus & Cincinnati, Ohio.” You can reach Tim by email at tmisny@misnylaw.com or call at 1 (800) 556-4769.
