Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of workplace deaths and cause about 20 percent of the total reported for disabling injuries.
The workers’ compensation system has been put in place to safeguard the interests of workers who suffer injuries or illnesses as a result of the work they perform. However, workers may not always be fully aware of their rights, and it may not be clear whether or not their injury is covered. This can be especially true in the case of slip, trip, or fall injuries. Our Kansas City workers’ compensation attorney will shed light on these types of injuries and explain whether or not they are covered by workers’ compensation.
Common Work-Related Accidents
Slip, trip, or fall accidents are common at workplaces. They most often occur on walking surfaces at the workplaces. Oftentimes, the slip and fall accidents are considered minor and do not usually cause serious injuries. However, it is not uncommon for such accidents to cause disabling injuries. Serious slip and fall accidents can occur in offices, factories, grocery stores, and in heavy industries.
An example of a serious slip and fall accident includes a fall from scaffolding at a construction site. This may cause serious injuries such as neck and back injuries, broken bones, and even spinal cord injury. According to OSHA reports, in the United States, slip and fall accidents are the number one safety hazard. If you or someone close to you has suffered an injury in a work-related slip and fall accident, you should get in touch with a Kansas City workers’ compensation attorney to understand your legal rights.
Qualifying for Workers’ Compensation Benefits
When someone suffers a work-related slip and fall accident, he or she should first identify the cause of the accident. Kansas City workers’ compensation law requires the injured worker to prove the connection between the slip and fall accident and the work activities or environment. If the worker slipped or fell at work for no apparent cause related to work duties or the environment, it may not qualify him or her for workers’ compensation benefits.
According to National Safety Council reports, slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of workplace deaths and cause about 20 percent of the total reported for disabling injuries. A slip and fall from an elevated height may cause severe injuries; but on the other hand, a fall at the same level does not often cause serious injuries. Work-related slip and fall accidents can be caused by:
- Oily or wet elevated or same level walkways.
- Spills.
- Unrepaired or hazardous floor surfaces.
- Loose rugs or mats.
- Weather-related hazards such as rain, ice, or snow.
- Inadequate employee training.
Receiving Your Rightful Compensation
Although the injured employee may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, it might not be easy for the employee to get the benefits they deserve. The employer, insurer, or the doctors may want the injured worker to settle for an amount lesser than what they are entitled to. So, it is important to contact an experienced Kansas City workers’ compensation lawyer to understand your legal rights and receive legal help in securing your rightful benefits. Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (816) 256-4300.
