5 Most Common Workers Compensation Claims

Workers compensation is one of the most important insurance policies a business can carry, as it serves to protect your employees in case they are injured while working. Understanding the common injuries you can expect will help you safeguard your workplace in order to keep your employees uninjured and happy.

1. Sprains, Strains and Pulls 
The most common workers compensation claims often come from the most basic accidents. A pulled muscle, torn tendon or overextension can happen in the blink of an eye and cause a lot of pain for an employee. These happen frequently due to lifting heavy boxes or equipment and other physical activities.

2. Slips and Falls 
Slips and falls happen all the time. If an employee trips because of a wet floor or icy walkway leading to the business, they’re likely to file a workers compensation claim if they sustain injuries such as breaks or fractures.

3. Electricity 
Shocks and electrocution primarily happen to physical laborers such as contractors and construction workers, but they can happen in nearly any business. One faulty wire or light can cause a severe electric shock or burn. Electrocution can lead to serious issues such as cardiac arrest or nerve damage. It’s important for businesses to make sure everything is working properly and all electric wires are covered and secure.

4. Falling Objects 
Head injuries are unfortunately frequent and can be devastating. This type of injury can happen to office workers trying to get a box off the top shelf, restaurant workers being accidentally hit with a piece of equipment, etc.

5. Vehicle Related Incidents 
Transportation is the leading cause of fatality-related workers compensation claims. If one of your delivery drivers gets severely injured in a wreck while on a delivery, they or a family member will likely want to file a workers compensation claim. In the case of death, workers compensation benefits will go to the surviving family member, usually in a lump sum to pay for funeral costs and other death-related expenses.

If you have any questions about workers compensation, be sure to speak with an insurance agent. As safe as your workplace may be, you could still face injuries, lawsuits and other workers compensation claims. A single injury lawsuit could cause your business thousands or even millions of dollars. Compare quotes and discuss your business’ insurance options when it comes to protecting your employees from injuries and your business against possible related lawsuits.