Common Causes of On-the-Job Injuries

On-the-job accidents and injuries are an unfortunately common occurrence, leaving workers struggling to pay medical expenses while being unable to work or perform certain tasks at their jobs. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits are available to help, providing access to medical care, as well as reimbursement for lost wages and any future losses in income you may suffer due to lingering disabilities. Regardless of your occupation or the type of work you are in, it is important to be aware of the potential risks you may face, as well as the types of benefits you may be entitled to.

Common Types of Work-Related Accidents

The latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicate that more than 100 workers were killed on the job in 2015, while thousands of others suffered serious and potentially disabling injuries. Some occupations are inherently more dangerous than others, such as law enforcement and the construction and manufacturing trades, but injuries can occur on any job site, regardless of your position. According to the BLS, the most common types of work-related accidents include:

• Slips, trips, and falls;
• Being struck by or against an object;
• Transportation related accidents;
• Fires and explosions;
• Electrical accidents and exposure to live wiring;
• Exposure to harmful substances and chemicals.

Any of the above can have a devastating impact on your health, while leaving you unable to work or even engage in your usual hobbies and activities.

Getting The Benefits You Are Entitled To

Fortunately, when on-the-job accidents and injuries occur, workers’ compensation benefits are available to help. Administered through the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, the types of benefits available to injured workers include the following:

• Wage Replacement: If you are unable to return to work, you may be entitled to wage replacement benefits of up to two thirds your usual earnings.
• Medical Expenses: The costs related to the care and treatment of work-related injuries are covered, provided your claim was filed immediately after your injury occurred.
• Permanent Partial Impairment: This provides compensation for permanent disfigurement or loss of use of a body part, vision, or hearing, as well as permanent impairments due to a brain injury.
• Permanent and Total Disability: This provides benefits if you are permanently disabled and unable to return to work.
• Death Benefits: In the event a work-related injury is fatal, your survivors may be entitled to burial expenses and compensation for future losses in earnings.

Let Us Help You Today

If you have suffered a job-related injury, contact Hampton Injury Law PLC today. Our experienced Jamestown workers’ compensation attorney provides the aggressive legal representation you need to ensure your rights are protected, while advising you on how to get the maximum amount of compensation you deserve. Call or contact our office online today to request a free consultation.