Work-related injury and illness information you need to know

Work-related accidents that result in fatalities usually make the news in Charlotte, so our readers probably know when those events occur. But what some people may not realize is that nonfatal injuries and illnesses that occur due to on-the-job causes are much more common than fatalities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics keeps track of work-related injuries and illnesses that occur throughout America. In 2015, the last year for which there is a full set of data, there were reportedly over 2.9 million illnesses and injuries in the private sector workforce alone. This resulted in more than 902,000 days of missed work by employees. Of the 2.9 million reported cases in 2015, many resulted in sprains, strains and injuries to the back, often caused by slips and falls.

In addition to these illnesses and injuries, there were also many fatalities. The statistics show that in 2015 there were more than 4,800 fatalities throughout the private and public employment sectors, with about 25 percent of those caused in roadway incidents.

Our readers who are dealing with an injury or illness that occurred on the job will likely be exploring workers’ compensation at first. But, if the injury or illness is serious enough, it could be a disability. When employees have a qualifying disability that may last for 12 months or more, or result in death, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits for the injuries or illnesses. Individuals who find themselves in this situation may need to get more information about their eligibility for SSD benefits.

Post Type: TOPICAL