Norfolk County, Massachusetts Work-Related Accidents
The Right to a Safe Work Environment
All employees have the right to a workplace that does not hinder the health or safety of the employee(s). Unfortunately, despite this right, accidents occur every day when employers, co-workers, and/or product manufacturers cause workers to suffer catastrophic injuries due to their negligence or other wrongful acts. Often, these injuries result from employers violating Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) regulations by forgoing standard safety procedures, cutting corners, and/or utilizing substandard materials and dangerous equipment. In the most severe cases, accidents may be fatal.
When and Where Accidents Occur
Work-related accidents may happen both on and off work premises, before and after regular business hours, and/or sometimes involve third parties. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, symptoms range from appearing to years later. While work-related accidents can occur in any industry, the most commonly affected industries include construction, manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, warehousing, and hospitality industries.
Common Workplace Injuries
- Lifting Injuries
- Repetitive Stress and Overexertion Injuries
- Slip and Falls
- Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
- Heavy Machinery Accidents
- Nerve and Joint Injuries
Workplace Accidents in Massachusetts
Massachusetts laws and the laws of many other states require employers to have Workers’ Compensation insurance to provide medical care, rehabilitation, and partial replacement of lost wages for injured parties. If a worker loses his or her life due to a work-related accident or illness, the surviving family may also receive benefits.
Often, employees can only recover compensation for their work-related injuries through their employer’s Workers’ Compensation insurance. However, the benefits provided through the Workers’ Compensation system are often not enough to fairly compensate the injured worker or surviving family for catastrophic losses. In some cases, employees may sue outside the Workers’ Compensation system for damages resulting from injuries sustained in the workplace or on the job. It is essential to contact an experienced attorney, such as at Rightful Legal, to understand whether and when you have the right to bring a case outside of the Workers’ Compensation system.
Have You Been Injured in A Work-Related Accident?
If you have been seriously injured while working, you may be struggling with permanent physical disabilities, chronic pain, loss of earning potential, future medical costs, and/or the ability to provide for your family. If so, due to the complexity of most work injury cases, it is in your best interest to speak to an experienced attorney to help ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
The clock begins ticking the moment your accident happens. The sooner you contact Rightful Legal, the more likely we are to secure any potential evidence before it disappears. Call Rightful Legal today at 617-821-5856 to schedule your consultation with a lawyer. Attorney Paulsen and her staff will guide you through the workers’ compensation process to protect your rights.