Getting Workers' Compensation for Slip and Fall in the Workplace in Raleigh, NC

Though some jobs have a higher risk for falls than others, anyone can suffer a serious injury on the job. Falls may occur because of the following:

• Wet or oily surfaces – Any kind of leak or spill can create a slippery surface. There could be a water leak from a burst pipe, an oil spill from a heating system, or a spilled drink in the break room. Spills can happen anywhere in the workplace. Weather such as rain or snow also can cause slippery surfaces, especially around entranceways and on sidewalks.
• Trip hazards – Loose mats or carpeting, steps at doorways, uneven flooring, cluttered walkways, and uncovered cables can cause trips.
• Poor lighting – Employees are at risk of slip and falls in areas with inadequate lighting or where burned-out bulbs have not been replaced.
• Faulty equipment –A damaged office chair, loose rug, or unsecured cable could also present a tripping hazard.
• Defective handrails – Faulty, loose, or missing handrails and defective stairwells can cause employees to lose their balance and fall.

Common Injuries from Falls in the Workplace

Falls can cause severe injuries such as:

• Broken bones – Falling on a hard surface can lead to broken bones in the legs, arms, hips, rib cage, and shoulders. All of these injuries can require long-term treatment and rehabilitation.
• Neck injuries – Neck injuries are often caused by a slip or a fall. They can cause damage to tendons, muscles, or ligaments in the neck.
• Spinal cord injuries – Spinal cord injuries such as herniated or slipped discs, fractured vertebrae, and pinched nerves can result from a fall. The symptoms can vary from chronic pain and reduced mobility to paralysis.
• Concussions – This common traumatic brain injury may occur when the head hits the ground after a fall. A brief loss of consciousness may occur.
• Cuts and lacerations – This type of injury can occur when falling onto dangerous or sharp objects such as broken glass, jagged metal, or machinery. Such injuries may cause damage to nerves and soft tissue beneath the skin.
• Facial injuries – A blow to the front of the head can result in a fractured jaw or damage to the eyes, nose, or teeth.

When Employers Dispute Your Workers’ Comp Claim

Employers have to pay for workers’ compensation insurance. Their annual premiums may go up if they have significant claims reported. Consequently, an employer or insurance administrator may try to dispute a claim to avoid the expense. They may argue the employee:

• Was not performing work-related tasks when the accident occurred
• Suffered the injury after clocking out
• Fell because of intoxication or engaging in horseplay
• Intentionally caused the accident to get out of work
• Was not really an employee but an independent contractor

If your employer disputes your workers’ compensation claim, contact a North Carolina workers’ compensation lawyer with Younce, Vtipil, Baznik & Banks, P.A. immediately. We can investigate the incident, collect evidence to strengthen your claim and pursue an appeal if your claim has been denied. If you were hurt at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Let us help you demand everything you deserve.

How to Prevent Falls in the Workplace

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides employers with guidance on preventing slips and falls in the workplace. Employers should identify all potential slip and fall hazards within their worksites. These might include wet floors, debris left on walkways, elevated surfaces that need to be adequately secured, or poor lighting.

After identifying potential slip and fall hazards, employers should take steps to mitigate them by placing signs around the worksite that indicate slippery surfaces and warning workers to use caution. Employers should also ensure that walkways are free of debris and regularly inspect all stairs, ladders, and elevated surfaces to ensure they are safe.

Employers should consider providing employees with appropriate training to increase awareness of preventing workplace slips-and-fall hazards.