Slip and Fall Accidents 

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of workplace accidents and account for over 20 percent of all workplace injuries. Regardless of how serious the resulting injury is, if a slip and fall happened while you were performing your job duties, Workers’ Compensation will cover the costs of your medical care, as well as lost wages and other benefits. Your employer has a responsibility to provide a safe work environment and follow workplace safety regulations set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Failing to do so compromises the health and safety of employees.

Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents

There are a number of factors that can cause a person to slip or fall at work, from tripping on a piece of loose carpet to falling on an icy surface. The following are common examples of some of the most common causes of workplace slip and fall accidents:

  • Spilled liquids
  • Flooring that is cracked, torn, or uneven
  • Poor lighting
  • Exposed cords, cables, wires, or hoses
  • Freshly waxed flooring
  • Defective ladders
  • Unmarked steps
  • Weather hazards such as ice, sleet, or snow
  • Loose floorboards or rugs

Many slip and fall accidents result in soft tissue injuries. These include sprained ligaments, tendons, and muscles, minor cuts and contusions, and minor burns. Hard injuries are more serious and can include head trauma, back and neck injuries, fractures, lacerations, amputations, and serious burns. If you suffered from any of these injuries while performing your job responsibilities, you are eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits through your employer.

Steps to Take After an Injury

If you have been injured at work, it is imperative that you seek medical attention and notify your employer immediately. Provide detailed information about the accident, including the date, time, and cause of your accident. Workers’ Compensation will cover the cost of your medical care, including any specialists that your primary physician recommends. For example, if you are required to seek treatment from an orthopedist, a podiatrist, a chiropractor, a physical therapist, or any other healthcare professional that will treat your injury, these expenses will be covered by your Workers’ Compensation benefits.

If your injury prevents you from being able to return to work, either for several days or permanently, you may qualify for the following disability benefits:

  • Temporary partial disability benefits: This wage loss benefit is provided to injured employees who are able to return to work after they have recovered from the injury, but are not able to earn their full wage due to a temporary disability.
  • Temporary total disability benefits: If a worker is unable to return to work in any capacity due to the injury or illness, this provides weekly wage loss benefits based on his or her average weekly wage.
  • Permanent partial disability benefits: This benefit is provided to an employee whose disability allows him or her to return to work, but at a lower paying job. The amount paid is based on the employee’s weekly wage. After 500 weeks, the benefit ends unless the employee’s status is changed to temporary total disability within the specified amount of time.
  • Specific loss benefits: If a work injury leaves you disfigured or results in scarring, the loss of a limb, or the loss of a bodily function, the injured worker may qualify for additional compensation based on his or her average weekly wage.

Third-Party Claim 

You may not file a lawsuit against your employer if you have been injured on the job. However, if a third party who is not the injured worker’s employer is responsible for the injury, you may file a third-party claim. For example, if an employee becomes injured while climbing a defective ladder, the manufacturer of the ladder may be held liable. When pursuing this type of claim, you must prove that the third-party was negligent. If you are able to successfully prove negligence, you may be able to collect compensation for lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and all medical expenses, as well as pain and suffering.

Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of Slip and Fall Accidents

If you have been injured at work in a slip and fall accident, contact the skilled Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. We will help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive the full benefits you deserve. For a free consultation, call us at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.