Every worker has the right to feel safe in their place of employment, and this includes being protected from potential injury at work. Although most employers offer some protections for their workers, it is usually impossible to prevent all workplace-related accidents and injuries, which might lead to complex situations such as real estate disputes in cases of injury at work premises.
Accidents at Work Do Happen
In 2020, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 2.7 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses across the country. This was slightly less than 2019, which reported a total of 2.8 million workplace injuries and illnesses. Overexertion made up 31 percent of all reported workplace injuries in that year. This included slips, trips, and falls, which covered 27.5 percent of all reported injuries.
According to the U.S. Worker’s Compensation website, other types of injuries sustained from overexertion may include:
- Back injuries
- Twisted ankles
- Tendon and joint injuries
- Neck injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee or leg injuries
Do I Qualify for an Accidents at Work Claim?
Although there are few exceptions, nearly every Wisconsin worker is covered under the state’s Worker’s Compensation Law. Some exceptions might include volunteers, domestic workers—like housekeepers or lawncare workers—independent consultants or in some instances farm hands.
In addition, an injury that is intentionally self-inflicted will typically not qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. However, a pre-existing condition that was aggravated by a workplace accident or injury may be covered.
What If the Accident was My Fault?
Keep in mind that your employer is most likely responsible for compensating you for lost wages and related medical expenses, regardless of fault for the accident.
If your employer doesn’t supply adequate protective equipment, ensure safe working conditions, and provide proper training, they might bear responsibility for your injuries and the ensuing recovery and compensation. If the accident wasn’t necessarily caused by your employer’s negligence and was truly accidental, you likely retain the right to compensation for workplace injuries.
Are You An Injured Employee?
If your employer doesn’t supply adequate protective equipment, ensure safe working conditions, and provide proper training, they might bear responsibility for your injuries and the ensuing recovery and compensation. However, if the accident wasn’t necessarily caused by your employer’s negligence and was truly accidental, you likely retain the right to compensation for workplace injuries.
At Doar, Drill & Skow, our attorneys are here to help. We offer many years of experience in Worker’s Compensation claims. To learn more, contact us today for a consultation. We’ll walk you through each step of the claim process and help you get the justice you deserve.