Stephen Hasner | Workplace Accidents | December 27, 2016
Unfortunately, workplace injuries frequently occur in Georgia and across the country.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that nearly three million on-the-job injuries are reported to employers every year. Many more injuries likely go unreported.
In Georgia, injured workers must report their injuries, and they have the right to receive benefits under the state’s workers’ compensation laws. With that said, pursuing full and fair benefits can be challenging.
If you were hurt on the job in Atlanta, Savannah or in any of the surrounding communities, you should seek immediate assistance from an experienced Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer.
The following are some of the most common injuries that workers face in Georgia:
Overexertion
Overexertion injuries also lead to many workers’ compensation claims each year. Employees need to take care to avoid overexerting themselves on the job. Likewise, employers must refrain from encouraging, or forcing, employees to overexert themselves. There are many specific kinds of overexertion injuries. One of the most common examples is a workplace back injury. These can occur when a worker lifts or pulls too much weight.
Slipping and Tripping Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are another major problems at worksites in Georgia and around the country. Employees should always take care to be sure that they know what is on the floor around them. Additionally, employers should have clear protocols for cleaning up spills and keeping walkways free from tripping hazards.
Five Ways to Protect Yourself From Accidents in the Workplace
Here are our suggestions for keeping yourself safe on the job in Georgia:
Stay alert.
Workplace accidents can occur in many different ways. The single best way to protect yourself is to keep your eyes open. Both workers and employers should always have safety at the forefront of their minds.
Wear the appropriate clothing and safety gear.
If you are required to wear certain clothing or safety equipment on the job, please always keep those items on. Sometimes workers take off certain things, like eye protection, for small periods of time each day. Taking safety gear off for even a moment can put you at risk.
Communicate with your supervisor.
Good communication with your manager can go a long way towards reducing on-the-job injury risk. You should always ensure that you know the risks of doing any task on the job. Further, if you feel that there is a risk that your employer has not considered, you should inform the employer. You have a legal right to have an open conversation with your manager about worker safety.Know your training.
One of the best ways to avoid workplace risks is to ensure that you only engage in jobs and tasks for which you are properly trained. Your employer has a legal duty to provide you and your co-workers with adequate training. It is the employer’s responsibility to do so. It is your responsibility to take this training to heart and be sure that you truly understand how to perform your tasks in a safe manner.
Never take shortcuts.
We all understand the impulse to take shortcuts. You get busy and you are looking for a way to catch up on your tasks. However, you must never take shortcuts when it comes to safety. The health and safety of workers must be given priority over everything else. Whether it is skipping safety checks or using an improper tool to get a job done, shortcuts should be avoided. Protect yourself by taking your time and following proper safety protocols.
Do Not Go It Alone: Our Atlanta Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Hasner Law PC Can Help You
Georgia workers’ compensation claims are complex. There is no reason to go through this process alone.
At Hasner Law, PC, our team handles all work injury cases on a contingency fee basis. We do not charge our clients upfront costs, and we do not collect a fee unless we help you to recover your benefits.
For more information, please contact the Atlanta workers’ compensation law firm of Hasner Law P.C. at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Fulton County, Chatham County, and its surrounding areas:
Hasner Law PC – Atlanta Law Office
2839 Paces Ferry Rd SE #1050
Atlanta, GA 30339
(678) 888-4878
Hasner Law PC – Savannah Law Office
221 W York St
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 234-2334
