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- Industries With the Most Workers’ Compensation Claims
- Workers’ Compensation Claims for Transportation and Warehouse Workers
According to the U.S Department of Transportation, the warehousing and transportation industry is growing. There was an estimated total of 15.8 million workers in the field in 2022. The transportation and warehousing industry is responsible for moving and storing goods. However, it is also a field with its share of occupational hazards, which lead to workplace injuries and illnesses each year.
Workers in this sector are often exposed to physically demanding tasks, hazardous materials, and heavy machinery, all contributing to the risk of injury. If you have been injured or fallen ill, you have the right to pursue these benefits. Let’s look at the available workers’ compensation claims for transportation and warehouse workers.
What Happens If You Are Injured on the Job?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the private transportation and warehousing industry reported 206,900 nonfatal injuries and illnesses in 2020. Of these incidents, 99,800 resulted in days away from work, and 57,000 involved days of job transfer or restriction.
If you have suffered an injury or illness while performing your job duties, you are more than likely able to file for workers’ compensation benefits. However, specific criteria must be met.
For example, an injury or illness is considered work-related if it happens due to an incident within the work environment. Some examples of this can include:
- An employee who slipped and fell while retrieving a package in a warehouse.
- A worker who developed a respiratory condition due to exposure to hazardous substances.
- A worker who was injured in a vehicle accident during work hours.
Keep in mind that suffering an injury or developing an illness does not have to stem from one single event. Sometimes, pre-existing conditions can worsen due to your job duties, especially if those actions significantly aggravate the condition.
However, you must have documented proof that your work environment or activities contributed to worsening the condition. For example, if an employee with existing back pain experiences increased discomfort or injury due to lifting heavy boxes during work hours, then under these guidelines, that aggravation would qualify as work-related.
Workers’ compensation covers most injuries and illnesses that occur while employees work or because of their job duties.
What Types of Injuries Are Covered?
In the warehouse or transportation, a wide variety of injuries can occur. These incidents are often related to working around equipment or vehicles in the facilities. Some of the most common injuries include:
Strains and Sprains
Transportation and warehouse workers complete repetitive tasks, and that can lead to strains and sprains. Lifting heavy packages, operating machinery, and maintaining inventory are strenuous duties. As a result, that can place strain on muscles and sprain joints.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Many of these facilities have other risks that are not dependent on other industries. For example, there is a higher chance of slippery floors, uneven surfaces, and cluttered pathways. Warehouse workers are susceptible to slips, trips, and falls since they may have to navigate around equipment and materials.
Falling Objects
In warehouse settings, falling objects can land on unsuspected workers. Whether an object tumbles from shelves or a conveyor belt, it can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones or concussions.
Overexertion
Many warehouse and transportation workers may have to do certain tasks, such as loading and unloading trucks, stacking boxes, and moving heavy items. Back injuries are common in these trades.
Vehicle-Related Accidents
Whenever a worker has to drive on the road with other vehicles, there is always a crash risk. Whether driving trucks, buses, or delivery vehicles, these accidents can result in severe injuries that may require workers’ compensation benefits.
Burns and Electrocutions
Warehouse workers who deal with machinery, electrical equipment, or hazardous materials could suffer burns and electrocutions. Sometimes, the workers may need extensive medical care to return to the workforce.
What Benefits Are Available?
Anyone injured on the job may be eligible to file workers’ compensation claims for transportation and warehouse workers. Most workers will qualify, whether full-time, part-time, or seasonal. Also, keep in mind that these benefits will start on the first day of employment. These benefits cover a wide range of expenses, from medical care to lost income.
Medical Expenses
Workers’ compensation insurance should cover medical expenses related to your workplace injuries. With this financial assistance, you can receive all the necessary medical attention without incurring out-of-pocket costs. Coverage can vary, but it usually includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and rehabilitation programs. By helping with these expenses, workers’ compensation alleviates the financial strain and allows you to focus on your recovery.
Lost Wages
Workers’ compensation can provide partial wage replacement if you have an illness or injury that prevents you from returning to work. In some cases, you cannot earn your regular income, which can put a strain on your finances. Keep in mind that the amount of wage replacement is defined under your state’s laws and the severity of the disability. For example, some states may provide two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage, while others might use another type of calculation.
Disability Benefits
Sometimes, an injury or illness is so serious that you may be temporarily or permanently disabled. In these instances, you could qualify for disability benefits under workers’ compensation. Temporary disability benefits are available for workers who are temporarily unable to perform their job duties but are expected to recover. You would receive these benefits while you recover.
On the other hand, permanent disability benefits allow employees who suffer from lasting impairments that prevent them from returning to their previous employment. These benefits can be awarded as a lump sum or ongoing payments. Once again, that will depend on the severity of the disability and state regulations.
Vocational Training
Under workers’ compensation, vocational training benefits, also referred to as vocational rehab, help injured employees return to the workforce. These benefits will cover the costs of retraining and education so that employees can learn new skills or adapt to different job roles. Many times, this benefit is offered if you can no longer perform your previous duties. These training programs may include courses, certifications, and job placement services.
Death Benefits
If a workplace injury results in an employee’s death, workers’ compensation provides death benefits to the surviving dependents. These benefits include coverage for funeral and burial expenses. In addition, family members can receive financial support due to the deceased’s loss of income. The amount and duration of death benefits vary by state.
It’s likely that almost anyone injured or who falls ill on the job in the roles described above is eligible to file workers’ compensation claims for transportation and warehouse workers to receive compensated medical care, lost income, and other benefits. So, take time to apprise yourself of your options. It will make a difference in your recovery.