Slip and Fall Accidents at Work
Slip and fall accidents at work can result in serious injuries that require long recovery periods. When a worker is injured in a slip and fall accident at work, Workers’ Compensation benefits can provide much needed compensation to cover medical bills and lost wages. Even if benefits are initially denied, an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer can appeal the decision and help claim the compensation the victim is entitled to receive.
Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents at Work
Slip and fall accidents occur in every profession and workplace. Injuries can be serious and lead to long term disability, and in some cases, death. Several work industries are more prone to slip and fall accidents, such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. The most common causes of workplace slip and fall accidents include:
- Slippery surfaces that are wet, icy, or snow covered
- Uneven surfaces
- Torn carpet or damaged floor tiles
- Improper or inappropriate footwear
- Lack of proper training to avoid slip and fall accidents
- Obstructed walkways
- Poor lighting
- Broken handrails on stairways
- Cords or wires running across traffic areas
- Liquid spills or greasy material left on floors
Injuries Related to Slip and Fall Accidents
A slip and fall accident can result in minor injuries and embarrassment, but in some cases, injuries can be severe. Falling on a hard surface, into sharp corners on furniture, or into glass display cases can be devastating. Falling from an elevated surface such as scaffolding or a ladder can have catastrophic consequences. Even a seemingly minor slip and fall accident can cause major trauma, such as:
- Head injuries, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Broken bones on the face, arms, and legs
- Back and spinal injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Burns when falls involve hot surfaces and open flames
- Muscle, tendon, and ligament tears and sprains
- Injuries to joints such as knees, shoulders, and hips
- Facial disfigurement and scarring
- Paralysis
Compensation for Slip and Fall Accidents at Work
Workers who are injured in a slip and fall accident at work typically receive Workers’ Compensation benefits to cover the high costs of medical care and interventions associated with the accident. Hospitalization, surgery, prescription medication, physical or cognitive therapy, and assisted mobility devices are covered by Workers’ Compensation insurance. Compensation is also available for lost wages due to extended recovery periods.
In some instances, Workers’ Compensation benefits may be denied initially. This does not mean that the injured worker cannot claim compensation. An experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer can help to appeal the denial and claim the maximum amount of compensation available. The process can be tricky and deadlines are strict. An experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer will ensure that the worker’s legal rights are protected.
Piscataway Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Represent Those Injured in Workplace Slip and Fall Accidents
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident at work, call the Piscataway Workers’ Compensation lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr at 877-249-4600, or 732-537-8570, or contact us online to schedule a consultation today. Our Highland Park, New Jersey offices serve clients in New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.
