Everyday, across the country, workers get hurt while on the job. According to the National Safety Council, over four million workers are injured at their workplace every year. When a worker is injured, it can be devastating for that worker as it typically means lost work time as they need to recover from the injuries.

What makes a workplace injury even more frustrating is that most of the time, these injuries are preventable. Five common workplace injuries include:

• Overexertion injuries: These types of injuries are often caused by repetitive motions or having to lift and carry overly heavy items. Neck and back pain are commonly associated with overexertion injuries.
• Contact injuries: Many workplace injuries are considered contact injuries. This includes injuries caused by getting hit by a falling object, harmed by equipment, or getting caught in machinery.
• Slip and fall injuries: Slip and fall injuries can occur in any type of workplace. Wet, slippery flooring, loose carpet, misplaced cords, or other tripping hazards can cause falls resulting in injuries.
• Vehicle Accidents: Vehicle accidents that occur while on the job are also large contributors to worker injuries. While a vehicle accident may not happen “at the workplace” an accident can happen while you are on the job. For example, if you drive for a living, and are injured in an accident, it can still be considered a workplace accident. In other jobs, you may simply be making deliveries, completing work-related errands, and get injured while completing these work related tasks. 
• Illnesses: Many times workers are also harmed by illnesses they contract while at work. With the recent COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, this has been especially prevalent. An illness can cause a worker serious harm that requires lengthy recovery time. 

What to do If You are Injured at Work

If you suffer one of these injuries or any other injury while at work or working, you may be able to receive compensation for the costs and losses associated with your injuries. This compensation is generally received through Workers' compensation. California law requires employers to have workers' compensation coverage to cover the costs of employees injured on the job.

With the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Governor of California has made it possible for essential workers who get the virus to obtain workers' compensation as well, under the presumption that they got the virus while at work. The burden is on the employer to prove differently. Workers' compensation can provide compensation for costs associated with your medical care, compensate you for missed work, and provide for permanent disability benefits if you don't fully recover.

If you are injured by a faulty piece of equipment or the negligence of another driver in the case of a car accident, you may have a separate personal injury claim you can bring against this party to recover further for your losses. It can be helpful to talk to a knowledgeable Southern California personal injury attorney who can help you with your situation.

At the Kann California Law Group, we have years of experience helping clients who are injured in accidents, including those injured in workplace accidents. We can discuss your situation during a free case consultation and help you understand your options--whether it's workers' compensation or bringing a separate personal injury claim we can assist you in getting the financial recovery you deserve. Call us at (888) 744-7731 or reach out to us through our confidential online contact form.