There are around 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries every year, with injured workers receiving an average of over $60 billion in workers' compensation. Ranging from minor to serious, these incidents involve a wide range of scenarios. Yet the majority are easily broken into these three basic categories. 

3 Types of Workers' Compensation Injuries

1. Overexertion 

Working in extreme conditions, repetitive movements, and lifting heavy items can all lead to overexertion. In fact, the issue impacts over 3 million workers per year and causes around $15 billion in workers' compensation expenses. The term refers to a variety of injuries and disorders involving muscles, nerves, and cartilage. The resulting issues can either be temporary or chronic in nature, depending on the severity. 

2. Falls, Slips, & Trips

Whether from slick, wet, or uneven surfaces, work-related falls, slips, and trips impact 26.6 workers out of every 10,000 in the U.S. Such incidents impact just about every industry, but government employers experience the most injuries with around 63,350 incidents per year. Education and health services, such as hospitals, come in second with around 43,660 documented injuries, followed by retail at 29,830 incidents.  

3. Machinery Incidents

In the modern age, equipment is standard in many workplaces. From forklifts to excavators, every type of powered tool is susceptible to malfunction. Unfortunately, when such events occur, it can result in injury or even death to the operator or surrounding employees. When large, heavy-duty machinery is involved, the long-term consequences are often severe and debilitating, causing a serious financial burden to the injured party. 

Experienced an on-the-job injury? Find out what workers' compensation benefits you're entitled to by contacting Salerno & Leavitt in Omaha, NE. Boasting over 30 years of experience, the attorneys are committed to fighting for the rights of residents across Douglas County. Learn more about their personal injury work online and request a personalized consultation today at (402) 502-9002.