People in Oakland take pride in a job well done. They are hard workers, who make it a priority to succeed in the workplace. However, any worker can be struck by an injury or illness while on the job that could prevent them from working.
In 2016, nearly three million people in the private industry in the United States were injured or made ill on the job according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Specifically, nonfatal injuries and illnesses occurred at a rate of 2.9 incidents per 100 full-time employees. Almost one-third of nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses led to days away from work. Specifically, 892,270 workplace injuries and illnesses that took place in 2016 that led to an average of nine days away from work. This rate remained more or less the same as the number reported in 2015.
In the manufacturing industry, injuries were caused by falls, slips, trips, exposure to harmful substances, fires and explosions, violence and injuries caused by people or animals were the primary causes of workplace injuries and illnesses. The injuries suffered included sprains, strains, tears, cuts, lacerations, punctures, soreness, pain and fractures.
While some people who are injured or made ill on the job are eventually able to return to work, others are not so lucky. Some people will suffer career-ending injuries that take them out of the workplace permanently. Some such injuries could include amputations, burns or even orthopedic injuries. Not being able to work is difficult not just financially, as medical bills and living expenses accumulate with no way to pay them, but also emotionally. After all, many people personally identify with their chosen occupation, and the loss of that identity coupled with the impact of being unable to provide for one’s family can be devastating. Fortunately, those who suffer a career-ending injury may have legal options to seek the financial compensation they need during a difficult period in their lives.
