Slip and Fall Workplace Injuries

One of the most common examples of an injury at work is also one of the most common injuries altogether. A slip and fall. It’s happened to all of us. In fact, slip and fall cases are one of the most prevalent types of workplace injuries in Massachusetts, and responsible for one of the largest numbers of workers compensation claims.

The injuries that can result from a simple slip and fall are endless. It could range from a broken finger, to a herniated lumbar disc in the back, to a broken femur, to a simple bruise. Disability that results from these injuries are just as varied. One might sustain no disability, put on a band aid and get back to work. Another person might need emergency surgery and be out of work for months or even years.

The point is, slip and falls may sound minor, but they are anything but.

At the very least, following a slip and fall, report the injury! Report the injury in some manner. This could be simply telling a co-worker, a supervisor, or to Human Resources. If possible, try to send an email to a supervisor or HR, and save a copy. Get the injury down on paper!

Very often, people slip and fall, get up and shake it off, not realizing the extend of the injury. It is quite common for someone to be perfectly fine following a slip and fall, only to develop severe pain later that day, night, or even the next day. Having reported the injury will go a long way.

If possible, go see a doctor as soon as possible. That day, if possible. Again, get the injury down on paper!

One of the easiest and earliest defenses that workers comp insurance companies raise is that the injury never took place. And if the work injury was never reported to anyone, it makes this argument all the more stronger. Having an email, in writing, reporting the injury, and an Emergency Room doctor’s report noting the injury and prescribing Ibuprofen will effectively defeat this argument.

If you suffer a slip and fall on the job and are unable to work or get the treatment you need, contact an experienced Massachusetts workers comp lawyer as soon as possible.

The MA Workers Comp Law is Always changing

The MA Workers’ Compensation law is located at M.G.L. Chapter 152. It was originally enacted in the early 1900s, and has since undergone countless numbers of amendments, revisions, and updates. Even individual cases handled at the Department of Industrial Accidents have the potential of how the law is applied going forward. Because the workers comp law is in a constant state of change, it is vital to have an experienced workers comp attorney by your side to ensure that your rights are protected. Many attorneys “dabble” in the workers comp field. Be sure to have someone who specializes in this field.

At Troupe Law Office, we are experienced workers comp lawyers located on the North Shore of Boston, in Peabody. We have close to 50 years of experience solely in this field, and represent injured workers and their families all over Massachusetts. Call us any time for a free discussion of your case.