Work Related Injury Lawyer
Warehouse accidents account for a large number of workers’ compensation claims each year. The environment and nature of working in a warehouse make it more susceptible to accidents. If you were in an accident at a warehouse where you were employed and are not satisfied with the way your employer or the workers’ comp insurance provider is handling your case, contact the an attorney to discuss your claim and determine if they can help you obtain a fair settlement for your accident.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), warehouse accidents are caused as a result of one of the following conditions:
- Hazardous materials can cause chemical burns as well as respiratory problems.
- Forklift accidents are responsible for about 100 deaths and almost 100,000 injuries annually.
- Slips, trips, and falls resulting in accidental deaths and thousands of injuries.
- Electrocution because of faulty, substandard or temporary wiring.
- Obstructed exits during a hazardous situation or fire can be the cause of injury and death. Exit signs need to be visible and paths to the exits need to be kept clear.
- Design of the electrical system. If the design is not to OSHA standards in regards to maintenance and design.
- Respiratory injury and illness occur when the warehouse is not ventilated properly.
- Power equipment used improperly can result in serious injuries, including amputation.
- Lack of portable fire extinguishers in the warehouse. Fires and explosions in warehouses injure thousands and result in the death of hundreds of employees each year.
- Tagout/Lockout programs not in place. These programs prevent unauthorized personnel from entering mechanical and electrical areas where accidents can occur because of inexperienced workers.
The next steps to take if you are injured in a warehouse
Report the accident to your superior and/HR or safety representative. Seek immediate medical attention if necessary. Even if it is not an emergency, if you are injured, visit a medical professional in order to get a medical report of your injuries. If you are unable to work for any length of time or incur any out-of-pocket medical expenses, file a workers’ compensation claim with your employer. Depending upon the workers’ comp laws in your state, report the claim to your state’s workers’ comp agency. Your HR representative can help you with the forms and may submit them to the state and to the company’s workers’ compensation insurance provider as well.
Benefits settlement
Once your claim has been submitted, it will be investigated by the insurance provider. It is important to document everything about your accident at the time it happens, including pictures of where the accident occurred and of any injuries. If possible, obtain statements from any witnesses either to the accident or the conditions in the warehouse just prior to the accident. Get medical reports sent to HR. If you are not comfortable with the benefits settlement or are having problems getting your claim processed, contact experienced Glendale workers compensation lawyers who will investigate your claim and work with you to obtain workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Hickey & Turim, SC for their insight into workers compensation and work-related stress injuries.
