Every Missouri worker is at risk for an on-the-job injury, whether an individual works behind a desk all day or on a construction site. Some jobs carry a greater risk for workplace accidents than others. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that approximately 20% or more of all workplace injuries involve slips and falls, which can occur anywhere.
Additional BLS statistics
Data that BLS published in 2017 repoted more than 880,000 workplace accidents in Missouri and beyond within a 12-month period. More than 20% of those accidents involved workers who suffered injuries after falling, or slipped on a hard surface.
Service industry workers made up more than 64% of workplace accident cases involving bone fractures. Other common workplace injuries include those resulting from overexertion when lifting or lowering objects, as well as being struck by falling or airborne objects in the workplace.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) weighs in on the topic
The CDC’s workplace accident statistics shows that many injuries resulting from slips, trips and falls in the workplace involve use of ladders, scaffolding and rooftops. The CDC also reported that lack of proper safety signage, slippery surfaces and broken equipment or obstructions also place workers at great risk for on-the-job injuries.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim after a workplace accident
Most Missouri employers purchase workers’ compensation insurance to provide benefits to employees who are eligible after suffering injuries in the workplace. The claims process can be complex and stressful. However, an experienced workers’ compensation law attorney can help alleviate stress and resolve any legal complications that arise when a worker files a claim.
