Austin, Texas Workplace Injury Attorney - Causes of Work Accidents

Workplace injuries are a common occurrence in Austin, Texas. According to the United States Department of Labor, private employers reported 2.7 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2020. Many employees suffering from a workplace injury are able to apply for and receive worker’s compensation, but Texas is the only state that does not require an employer to have a worker’s compensation coverage.

Do not let this stop you or a loved one from seeking compensation, however. Work injuries can result in pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment, expensive medical bills, lost wages from missing work, physical therapy expenses, and more. If you have been injured at your workplace, Austin attorneys at Carabin Shaw will help you fight for justice.

A workplace injury is an injury that occurs during work hours, usually during a routine task someone is required to do at their job. Workplace injuries do not necessarily need to occur on the employers’ premises; they may also occur off-site or in transit to and from the workplace.

Many factors can cause workplace injuries, but there are few common causes of injuries Austin workers’ compensation attorneys commonly see in their cases.

Possibly the most common cause of workplace injuries, slips and falls may not seem serious but can cause serious injuries that can sometimes be life-threatening, including dislocated joints, fractures, spinal cord injuries, and head injuries. Slips and falls may occur from:

• Spills
• Slippery surfaces
• Obstructions
• Misplaced objects
• Ladders
• And more

The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation reported that transportation accidents are the leading cause of serious or fatal workplace injuries. Some of these accidents result from negligence of the employee operating a vehicle, including but not limited to:

• Speeding
• Impaired or reckless driving
• Texting and driving
• Driving while tired
• Not wearing a seatbelt

Some accidents are the fault of the employer, however. It is the employer’s responsibility to provide proper maintenance for vehicles and up-to-date training for vehicle operators and employees. An Austin work injury lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of your case.

Some job sites, especially construction and industrial job sites, house large and heavy machinery that can be dangerous. Usually safety and maintenance protocols will help ensure workers’ safety, but sometimes equipment is not properly maintained or employees do not receive adequate training. If you or a loved one have been injured by equipment, contact an attorney to investigate the accident. Check out Carabin Shaw’s client reviews to see how our staff will fight for you.

Whether outside or inside, lack of proper lighting can result in workplace injuries. Employees who are not able to see well may trip and fall over objects or they may not be visible by people operating vehicles or other heavy equipment.

Employers are required to provide the proper tools and other equipment for workers’ to perform their tasks. Lack of proper equipment can result in injury. Tools or equipment with wear and tear can also result in injury.

Proper training is essential for workplace health and safety. Texas law requires employers to hire qualified employees and properly train all workers in performing tasks, including for things such as operating machinery and other equipment and lifting heavy objects. Improper training can result in serious workplace injuries.

If you or a loved one are suffering from a workplace injury, do not wait to contact an Austin, Texas workplace injury attorney.

We offer a free case review / initial consultation. An experienced lawyer is available to speak with you 24/7. Both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking staff are available. Call toll-free: 800-862-1260.