Understanding Workplace Injuries

Understanding Workplace Injuries
Understanding Workplace Injuries
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Workplace injuries are very common, especially in today’s fast-paced work environment. While there has been an increase in safety regulations over the years, workplace injuries are still prevalent today. These injuries can have serious consequences for both the employee and the employer. 

Ranging from work-related illnesses to physical injuries, it is crucial that workplace safety is a priority and that those affected take the necessary legal action to recover from their losses. 

Types of Workplace Injuries

Some of the most common workplace injuries include:

  • Slipping and falling
  • Overexertion
  • Strains
  • Cuts

Slipping and falling are common from heights or wet surfaces, overexertion and strains are common in workplaces that require heavy lifting, and cuts are common when working with certain types of equipment. While there are many more types of workplace injuries, these examples could help you take the next steps in determining if you qualify for a personal injury claim. Consulting an experienced attorney could also help clarify your situation and your rights.

Workplace Injury Laws

If you were injured at work due to negligence by a third party—such as an equipment manager or contractor—you might be eligible to sue them for damages. This is referred to as a third-party work injury claim, which allows you to seek compensation for possible long-term effects of your injury, medical bills, lost income, and more. 

Every state has different deadlines for filing a claim, which is known as the statute of limitations. The following information is provided to help those who experienced a workplace injury in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio:

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, you have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit against a third-party responsible for your work injury or illness. A lot of workplace injuries in Pennsylvania are caused by negligence. Some examples include:

  • Faulty equipment
  • Lack of safety regulations being followed by a subcontractor

Explosions are one of the most serious accidents that can occur. Some common locations where they can happen are industrial plants, construction sites, and offices with gas lines or faulty electrical work.

West Virginia

West Virginia also allows up to two years from a workplace injury to file a third-party injury claim. Coal mining, chemical production, and construction are common industries that put West Virginia employees at risk. If a vendor, contractor, or equipment supplier fails to maintain a safe workplace and you are injured as a result, you may be able to submit a third-party injury claim. 

Explosions are a well-known risk in West Virginia’s coal mines, chemical plants, and refineries. When safety standards are not followed or equipment is not properly maintained, workers can suffer life-altering injuries.

Ohio

Ohio also has a two-year statute of limitations for work injury claims against a third-party. Ohio has a large manufacturing and industrial workforce. As a result, employees are often working with heavy machinery and possibly hazardous materials. If your injury was caused by a defective product or an unsafe worksite, you may be eligible to file a third-party claim. Factories, refineries, and construction sites are the most common areas where a workplace accident might take place. 

How We Could Help

Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to pursue a work injury claim with the guidance and support of Bordas & Bordas. At Bordas & Bordas, our Pittsburgh lawyers are dedicated to helping employees who have suffered a workplace injury file for a third-party injury claim. We understand the complexities involved in workplace injury cases and are here to offer our support throughout this difficult time. 

If you or someone you know has suffered a workplace injury, regardless of the severity, you do not have to navigate the legal system alone. From increasing medical bills to loss of wages, our dedicated team is here to provide the necessary resources for you. If you believe you may have experienced a workplace injury, do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.