Workplace injuries can happen in an instant, but understanding the risks can help reduce the chances of them occurring. A recent survey from Travelers analyzed 1.2 million workers' compensation claims from 2017 to 2021, uncovering the most common causes of on-the-job injuries. Overexertion, slips, trips, and falls, and being struck by an object topped the list. Slips, trips, and falls accounted for 23% of injuries, while overexertion led to 29%.
Motor vehicle accidents (5%) and caught-in/between hazards (5%) rounded out the top five causes. Chris Hayes, Assistant VP of Workers Compensation and Transportation Risk Control at Travelers, points out that the consequences of these incidents can be serious for both workers and employers. In a statement, he said, "By understanding where the risks were in the past, businesses can better identify what to look for and tailor their risk management and employee safety strategies accordingly to help prevent injuries from happening."
What does research say about construction workers' compensation claims?
For workers’ compensation claims exceeding $250,000, the same trio—slips, trips, and falls, overexertion, and being struck by objects—remain the most frequent causes. These injuries lead to long recovery periods, often with life-altering consequences. Nearly 35% of workplace injuries occur during an employee’s first year on the job, contributing to a staggering six million missed days in 2023 alone.
Different industries experience different rates of recovery. Workers in construction lead with an average of 103 lost workdays per injury, while transportation comes in second at 83 days. Other sectors, such as services, wholesale, and manufacturing, experience slightly fewer lost days. However, the impact is still significant. Each industry faces its own injury trends, with wholesale workers suffering from lower back issues and shoulder injuries dominating manufacturing.
Construction workers' compensation claims are almost double the average cost of other industries, largely due to slips, trips, and falls, as well as overexertion. According to Rich Ives, Senior VP at Travelers, construction accidents and resulting injuries are often the result of workforce shortages, inexperienced employees, and inadequate maintenance.
"While the number of injuries overall has been trending downward in recent years, our analysis shows that there’s never been a better time for businesses to invest in workplace safety and injury prevention," Ives stated.
What types of injuries result in the most missed days?
Dislocations, with an average of 142 missed workdays, topped the list of injuries that keep workers off the job. Fractures and inflammation follow at 92 and 85 days, respectively. Strains, sprains, and contusions may require shorter recovery periods but still cause significant lost time, averaging between 30 and 54 days.
Other types of construction injuries that often lead to time off from work or disability include:
- Amputations – Caused by contact with machinery or equipment that crushes, cuts, or severs body parts.
- Burns – Result from exposure to fire, chemicals, or electrical sources.
- Tendonitis – Caused by repetitive motion or overuse of tendons in physical tasks.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome – Results from repetitive hand or wrist movements, often involving tools.
- Hernias – Caused by heavy lifting or strain on the abdomen.
- Lacerations – Occur from contact with sharp tools, machinery, or materials.
- Hearing loss – Results from prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as machinery or construction equipment.
- Eye injuries – Caused by debris, chemicals, or impact during work.
- Back injuries – Result from lifting heavy objects or falls.
- Crush injuries – Occur when a worker is caught between or under heavy objects or machinery.
Hurt on the job? Consult with a San Diego workers’ comp attorney today
If you sustained a construction workplace injury, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and medical expenses. However, the process isn't always easy. It often involves a lot of paperwork and proof that your injury happened at work. That’s why having a skilled work injury attorney can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.
In San Diego, Robert A McLaughlin, APC, is here to fight for your rights. We know how a workplace injury can turn your life upside down, and we’re dedicated to helping you fight for the benefits you’re owed. We have proven case results that demonstrate our commitment to our clients. For example:
- A dental assistant who developed silicosis received $1,000,000 after a long battle involving invalid workers' compensation insurance and initial low settlement offers.
- The family of a worker killed in a work-related fire secured over $900,000, including monthly payments for life, following multiple safety violations by the employer.
- A phlebotomist with severe carpal tunnel syndrome won $750,000 despite their employer lacking workers' compensation insurance, with compensation provided through a special state fund.
With our contingency fee structure, you don’t pay unless we win. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you with your workers’ compensation claim.