Every day, workers suffer a number of injuries in California. For example, a construction worker may fall off of a roof in San Bernardino, while someone on the other side of the state may suffer an injury while they are driving a company vehicle. When workplace injuries occur, they often carry a significant financial toll for injured workers, their families and even employers. As a result, it is essential for companies and workers alike to make prevention a priority.
With regard to workplace injuries, many people realize certain financial burdens, such as the cost of medical treatment. That said, there are other ways these injuries affect workers that many people are not aware of. For example, in the decade following an occupational injury, a worker will typically earn 15 percent less, according to the Department of Labor. To make matters worse, data reveals that less than 40 percent of those who are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits actually apply.
In addition to lower productivity, the cost of rehabilitation and other troubles, these injuries often create challenges for employers as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 2.9 million occupational injuries occurred in the private sector during 2015. Among these injuries, more than 900,000 caused people to take time off work. Furthermore, employers may face fines and other financial consequences when workers are hurt on the job.
From construction sites to offices, preventing employee injuries is vital. After all, these accidents carry a heavy toll for families, workers and the companies that employ them.
