Due to the nature of the work, industrial occupations like manufacturing can often lead to injuries. In 2021 alone, there were 1,036 workplace injuries in the manufacturing industry in Louisiana.
When you’re injured on the job, you have enough to worry about without adding finances to the pile. Hiring an industrial accident attorney can help take some of the stress off your plate. This will give you the time you need to heal.
When should you hire an attorney? Keep reading to learn more about common types of industrial accidents and injuries and how hiring a lawyer can help.
Common Types of Industrial Accidents
An industrial environment comes with many potential hazards. When the workplace is not well maintained it can lead to many different types of accidents.
Machinery Malfunctions
Industrial settings often involve heavy machinery. These machines can pose significant risks if not properly maintained or operated.
Equipment that doesn’t work properly can cause serious injuries. These injuries can include amputations, crush injuries, or electrocutions.
Chemical Spills and Exposures
People who work in chemical plants or labs can have accidents with dangerous substances. Chemical spills can lead to burns on the skin or respiratory issues if toxic fumes are inhaled. Exposure to certain chemicals over time may also result in long-term health problems.
Fires and Explosions
Certain industries deal with flammable materials regularly. Think oil refineries or manufacturing plants handling volatile substances.
Accidents involving fires and explosions can cause catastrophic injuries. This could include burns, smoke inhalation damage, hearing loss due to loud blasts, and even fatalities.
Falling Objects
In construction sites or warehouses stacking goods is common practice. Falling objects pose a significant danger to workers below.
Tools can slip from high platforms. Loads that aren’t properly secured can fall. These incidents frequently result in head injuries, concussions, and other serious bodily harm.
Electrical Accidents
There are dangers of getting electrocuted in different industrial areas. This happens when electrical wires are exposed or when equipment is broken.
Transportation Incidents
Industrial sites use trucks, forklifts, and cranes to move things around. Unfortunately, these machines can cause accidents with workers or people walking nearby. Collisions, rollovers, and runaway vehicles are all common causes of transportation incidents.
Common Types of Injuries from Industrial Accidents
When it comes to industrial accidents, injuries can vary greatly depending on the nature and severity of the incident. Below are some common types of injuries that workers may suffer as a result of industrial accidents:
Fractures and Broken Bones
In industries where heavy machinery is involved, workers can sustain fractures and broken bones. This can be due to falls, being struck by objects, or getting caught in machinery.
Burns
Industries that deal with chemicals or flammable materials pose a risk of burns from fires or explosions. Chemical spills can also cause severe chemical burns if proper safety measures are not followed.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Falls from heights or being struck by falling objects can lead to traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can have long-term effects on cognitive abilities. They can also require extensive medical treatment.
Cuts and Lacerations
Using sharp tools, equipment, or machinery without taking precautions can lead to cuts and lacerations. This type of injury often requires stitches or other forms of medical intervention.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
Heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or awkward postures can result in musculoskeletal injuries. This can include injuries like sprains, strains, herniated discs, or torn ligaments.
Respiratory Conditions
Exposure to toxic substances in certain industries can lead to respiratory conditions. This could include asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer, or even mesothelioma.
Loss of Limbs
Industrial accidents can happen if machinery malfunctions and safety protocols are inadequate. This can lead to the loss of limbs.
Electrical Shock Injuries
Electricians and others who touch live electrical parts risk getting electrocuted. This can lead to serious burn injuries, internal organ damage, or cardiac arrest.
When Should You Hire a Lawyer?
In 2021, the warehousing industry ranked second when it came to workplace injuries in Louisiana. If you have been injured in an industrial accident, you may be wondering if it is necessary to hire a lawyer.
There are some situations where hiring a lawyer may significantly benefit you.
Claim Denied or Inadequate Compensation
If the insurance company says no or doesn’t give you enough money for your injuries, call a lawyer. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in order to protect their own interests.
An experienced industrial accident attorney will know how to navigate these negotiations. They’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Multiple Parties Involved
Another instance where hiring a lawyer can be crucial is when multiple parties are involved in the accident. In accidents at work, multiple parties could be responsible for safety protocols and equipment. Determining liability can be tricky, but it’s your attorney’s job to figure out who’s responsible.
Severe Injuries
If your injuries are serious and you will need ongoing medical care or rehabilitation, it is important to get legal help. An experienced lawyer can evaluate your future medical needs. This can help them determine the right amount of compensation for ongoing treatment.
If you have a permanent disability from a work accident, hiring a lawyer is very important. Determining fair compensation for lifelong impairment requires knowledge of complex laws and regulations. Your attorney can help with this process.
Negligence
If negligence played a significant role in causing the accident or injury at work, seeking legal counsel should be a priority. Negligence claims can involve gathering evidence and proving fault against employers.
It could also involve third-party contractors responsible for maintaining safe working conditions. An experienced attorney can help contact the right people.
Hire an Industrial Accident Attorney in the Baton Rouge and New Orleans Areas
If you have an accident at work, it’s important to get a lawyer who knows about industrial accidents. An industrial accident attorney will help protect your rights and work to get you the compensation you deserve.
Were you in an industrial accident? Contact Talbot, Carmouche & Marcello today for a free consultation.