There are hazards in every workplace, and every year, workers are hurt on the job in Ohio and throughout the United States. In an instant, these workers can be left with a serious injury that affects their physical, emotional, and financial well-being.
How are workers getting hurt?
A new survey from Travelers examined 1.2 million workers compensation claims from 2017 to 2021. The most frequent causes of injury were:
- Overexertion – These injuries occur when workers push their physical limits, typically from heavy lifting and repetitive motions or awkward postures involving twisting, pushing, or pulling. This can lead to strains, sprains, or back injuries. Overexertion is a common workplace hazard in industries requiring physical labor.
- Slips, trips, and falls – These are major causes of workplace injuries, often resulting from falls from heights, falls from ladders or scaffolding, or slips, trips, and falls due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting. These accidents can lead to broken bones, head injuries, or bruises.
- Being struck by an object – Being struck by falling or moving objects, such as tools, materials, or equipment, is a frequent workplace hazard, particularly in construction or manufacturing. These incidents can cause serious injuries, including fractures, head trauma, or even fatalities.
- Work-related motor vehicle accidents – Collisions in the workplace often involve employees operating company vehicles or equipment. These incidents can occur on the road or within industrial sites. Injuries range from minor to life-threatening, including whiplash, broken bones, or severe trauma.
- Caught-in or caught-between hazards – At some workplaces, body parts can be caught in machinery or between heavy objects, leading to crush injuries, amputations, or even fatalities. These dangers are prevalent in construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.
These causes of injury were also the top drivers in severe claims of $250,000 or more.
Injuries result in missed workdays
The average number of lost workdays per industry was:
- Construction (103 days)
- Transportation (83 days)
- Services (72 days)
- Wholesale (71 days)
- Manufacturing (67 days)
The average number of lost workdays per injury was:
- Dislocation (142)
- Fractures (92)
- Inflammation (85)
- Strains and sprains (54)
- Contusions (30)
Workers’ compensation can give injured workers financial support after they’ve been hurt on the job. These benefits can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. But many initial claims for benefits are denied.
That’s why you need an experienced Ohio workers’ compensation lawyer
The claims process can be complex, and dealing with the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC) can be frustrating. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can:
- Ensure all necessary forms and documentation are correctly completed and submitted within deadlines
- Handle all communication with insurance adjusters
- Help gather and present strong medical documentation to support the severity of your injury and its connection to your work
- Negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement that covers medical bills, lost wages, and future care needs
- Guide you through the appeals process, ensuring all necessary evidence is presented for reconsideration
- Represent you in workers' compensation hearings or court to advocate for your full rights.
If you were injured in a workplace accident in Ohio, make sure you get all the benefits you are entitled to receive. It’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible. The attorneys at Hochman & Plunkett Co., L.P.A. can help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in Dayton, Cincinnati, Springfield, Troy, and Columbus.