Rise in Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers’ Compensation Claims Will Rise in Winter

Winter weather is here.  Ice and freezing temperatures make traveling dangerous for pedestrians and drivers which lead to slip and falls and motor vehicle accidents.  These accidents will contribute to a significant increase in workers’ compensation claims.

Winter Hazards:

• Snow and ice accumulation around workplace entrances, parking lots and sidewalks are perhaps the biggest risk. Slip and fall accidents tend to increase in the winter months due to these conditions. Employers must make sure parking lots and walkways are free of ice and snow so employees can safely enter and exit the workplace.

• Icy and snow-covered roads can dramatically increase the chance of an accident.   For those who travel for a living, this will put them even more at risk.   As a result, workers’ compensation claims for drivers and off-site employees tend to increase during winter.

• Cold stress injuries. These injuries tend to affect workers who are exposed to outdoor temperatures, such as those who work outside on construction sites, airports, shipping facilities and first responders. A cold stress injury includes hypothermia, frostbite and respiratory inflammation. Workers should wear appropriate clothing and take breaks indoors, if possible.

Workers’ Compensation protects employees and employers in the event of a work-related accident.  In the unfortunate event of an accident at work, it is important to know what steps you should take. 

• Seek medical treatment: Depending on the severity of your injury, seeking medical attention should be your priority. 

• Report the accident: It is crucial to let your employer know that you were injured on the job. You must do this right away if you are physically able.

• Inform healthcare providers: The first time you receive medical treatment for your work injury, tell providers the incident occurred while you were at work.

• Keep notes: Keep a diary of all missed time from work, travel and out-of-pocket expenses that have accrued due to your work injury.

Workers’ compensation is an employer provided insurance program to protect workers in the event of an accident while at work.

This insurance will cover a worker’s medical bills and lost wages.

Employers have a duty to not only provide this insurance, but to also provide a safe workplace for their employees. At any time of year, keeping workers safe should be a top priority.

Recovering Compensation After a Workplace Accident

If you were injured on the job, contact the experienced attorneys at Berger and Green.

Berger and Green attorneys can advise you of your rights under the workers’ compensation statute as well as prosecute third party claims for your personal injury when someone other than your employer is at fault for your injuries.

Call Berger and Green at 412-661-1400 to schedule a free consultation.