Are You Out Of Work Because Of A Slip And Fall Injury?

It doesn't matter if it was caused by a wet floor, uneven ground, loose stairs, a pile of scrap or clutter or even your own two left feet that caused you to trip and injure yourself, if you slip and fall or are hurt on the job, you are entitled to worker's compensation to cover your medical bills and to pay a portion of your lost wages, if you must miss work. Surprisingly, slip and falls account for the majority of general industry workplace accidents. Minor injuries usually are handled easily with some rest and recovery, with worker's compensation picking up the pieces, but major spills can cause head trauma, back injury or broken bones. These injuries will require worker's compensation, but also usually the assistance of a lawyer, if it can be proven the injuries were caused by workplace negligence. Workplace slip and fall attorneys will help to ensure the injured employee receives compensation for pain, suffering and any additional losses suffered due to the injury, during recovery and afterward.

There is a difference between falls and injuries at work. Before hiring an attorney, it's important to determine if you have a negligence case or if you just had an unfortunate accident. Employees have the right to expect reasonably safe workplace conditions. Of course, working around machinery or tools requires vigilance and caution, but there are certain expectations the employer must meet to ensure a safe environment for workers. Leaks, spills and uneven floors, that cause slipping or stumbling, can cause a dangerous situation. Bad lighting, broken stairs or exposed cables or hoses can cause a hurried worker to fall, injuring themselves in the process. These situations may be considered negligent and allow you to recoup additional compensation from your employer. Your employer isn't usually held responsible for any type of ordinary slip or fall when nothing was out of place. It must be proven that your employer was aware of a dangerous situation and did nothing to correct it. Ignoring something that a reasonable person would have identified as dangerous and rectified is a loose guideline to determine what is negligence or not. An employer can not be aware of a dangerous situation and do nothing without being considered negligent.

If you are hurt on the job, always report the injury immediately and follow the treatment protocol from your employer and the medical professionals. Always make sure to document everything. That way, if a discrepancy comes up, you've always got the paperwork to back up your claim and prove yourself. Don't hesitate, if you have a severe injury or must miss an extended amount of work, speak to an attorney. It can't hurt to get his opinion and you may learn that you are entitled to additional compensation for your injuries. No matter what, by speaking to an attorney, you will know your rights are protected and you'll be getting everything you deserve while you focus on rest and recovery.