Common Types of Workplace Injuries and Their Impact on Workers' Comp Settlements in Missouri

Workplace injuries can have a significant impact on an employee's life and livelihood. In Missouri, understanding the types of injuries that commonly occur in the workplace and how they affect workers' compensation settlements is crucial for injured workers. This knowledge can help you navigate the claims process more effectively and ensure you receive fair compensation. Remember, the type and severity of your injury is one of the top factors affecting your workers' comp settlement in Missouri.

 

1. Back and Neck Injuries

Back injuries and neck injuries are among the most common workplace injuries. These can range from minor strains to severe injuries like herniated discs or spinal cord damage. The impact on workers' comp settlements can be substantial, especially if the injury results in chronic pain or disability.

 

• Potential causes: Heavy lifting, repetitive motions, slip and falls
• Settlement impact: Often high, especially if surgery is required or if there's permanent disability

 

2. Shoulder Injuries

Shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff and bicep tears, are common in jobs requiring repetitive overhead work or heavy lifting.

• Potential causes: Repetitive motions, heavy lifting, falls
• Settlement impact: Can be significant, especially if surgery and extended rehabilitation are needed

 

3. Knee Injuries

Knee injuries can be particularly debilitating and may require extensive treatment, including surgery in severe cases.

• Potential causes: Slip and falls, repetitive kneeling or squatting, twisting motions
• Settlement impact: Often substantial, especially if the injury limits mobility or requires surgery

 

4. Repetitive Stress Injuries

Repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis, develop over time due to repeated motions.

• Potential causes: Repetitive motions, poor ergonomics
• Settlement impact: Can vary, but may be significant if the injury affects the ability to work long-term

 

5. Head Injuries

Head injuries at work can range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

• Potential causes: Falls, falling objects, vehicle accidents
• Settlement impact: Can be very high, especially for severe TBIs with long-term cognitive effects

 

6. Burns

Burns can occur in various workplaces, from kitchens to construction sites to factories.

• Potential causes: Chemical exposure, fire, hot surfaces or liquids
• Settlement impact: Can be substantial, especially for severe burns requiring skin grafts or resulting in permanent scarring

 

7. Fractures

Broken bones can occur in almost any workplace and can range from minor to severe.

• Potential causes: Falls, crushing accidents, impacts from heavy objects
• Settlement impact: Varies based on severity and location of the fracture, with compound fractures or those requiring surgery typically resulting in higher settlements

 

8. Amputations

While less common, amputations are among the most severe workplace injuries.

• Potential causes: Machinery accidents, severe crushing injuries
• Settlement impact: Typically very high due to the permanent nature of the injury and its impact on future earning capacity

 

9. Occupational Illnesses

Occupational illnesses, such as respiratory conditions or certain cancers, can develop due to workplace exposures.

• Potential causes: Exposure to toxins, harmful dust, or other hazardous substances
• Settlement impact: Can be substantial, especially for long-term or life-threatening conditions

 

10. Psychological Injuries

While less visible, psychological injuries like depression and anxiety can result from workplace incidents or conditions.

• Potential causes: Traumatic events, chronic stress, workplace violence
• Settlement impact: Can be significant if the psychological injury impacts the ability to work or requires ongoing treatment

 

Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts

While the type of injury is crucial in determining settlement amounts, other factors also play a role:

• Severity of the injury
• Long-term prognosis
• Impact on earning capacity
• Cost of medical treatment (past and future)
• Age and life expectancy of the injured worker

For a comprehensive understanding of these factors, refer to our article on top factors affecting your workers' comp settlement in Missouri.

 

The Importance of Proper Documentation

Regardless of the type of injury, proper documentation is crucial for maximizing your workers' compensation settlement. This includes:

• Detailed medical records
• Documentation of all treatments and medications
• Records of missed work and lost wages
• Any evidence of how the injury has impacted your daily life

Understanding the Missouri workers' compensation claims process can help ensure you gather all necessary documentation.

 

The type and severity of your workplace injury play a significant role in determining your workers' compensation settlement in Missouri. However, navigating the complexities of workers' comp law can be challenging, especially when dealing with a serious injury.

 

If you've suffered a workplace injury in Missouri, it's crucial to seek professional legal advice. An experienced workers' compensation attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injury, taking into account all relevant factors that could affect your settlement.

 

For more information or to discuss your specific case, don't hesitate to contact the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping injured workers in Missouri navigate the workers' compensation process and secure the benefits they deserve.