Injuries that occur on the job are usually the result of either single event trauma or a chronic condition that develops over time, which can take years to manifest. Some professions pose greater risks to workers, such as in the construction and transportation industries, but injuries can occur in any profession.
Every state has different workers’ compensation guidelines, and in Maryland employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance from either the Chesapeake Employers’ Insurance Company or any company licensed in the state to write workers’ compensation, unless they have received prior approval from the Workers’ Compensation Commission to be self-insured.
Workers do not always connect the dots right away on the source of their condition or realize that they have rights to benefits under the state’s workers’ compensation laws. Some of these are benefits for:
- Medical or hospitalization
- Wage reimbursement
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Temporary partial or total disability
- Permanent partial or total disability
What are the most common work-related injuries?
The causes of workplace injuries are varied, depending on the industry. Many injuries occur due to strains or damage from overexertion, leading to conditions such as carpal tunnel disease, herniated discs, or knee or hip replacements. Many other injuries happen from falls, slips or trips. Repeated exposure to harmful substances or noise can also cause occupational disease over time, such as allergic reactions, pulmonary conditions or hearing loss. Transportation incidents are also a significant source of job-related injuries.
A study published in 2020 identified the top five workers’ compensation injuries:
- Strains from a torn or stretched tendon or muscle due to repetitive motions
- Contusions from a bump or fall that causes bruising, swelling or pain
- Punctures from working with knives, scissors, nails, or other sharp objects
- Sprains that occur from a torn or stretched tendon or muscle
- Lacerations that can occur from using an inappropriate tool or one that is in poor condition
Filing a claim, however, has its challenges, and many injured workers grow frustrated with the complex process of filings and paperwork, only to receive delays or denials of their claims. Learning more about the process is the first step toward getting the help you need when you have been hurt on the job.
