You’re at work and take a sudden fall, turning your ankle. It doesn’t seem serious at first, but later that night, you notice it beginning to swell. You wonder if you should see a doctor. You also wonder how this might affect your ability to work, and realize you know nothing about workers’ compensation claims.
This type of injury, a sprain, is one of the most commonly paid claims for Minnesota workers, according to statistics from the state’s Department of Labor and Industry. Officials have compiled the most common injuries for Minnesotans at work based on the 22,500 people who were paid workers’ compensation benefits for wage loss and disability in 2014. To qualify for these benefits, the work disability must last longer than three days.
Here are the most common injuries among Minnesota workers:
- Sprains, strains and tears – These accounted for 53 percent of injuries that received paid benefits in 2014 in Minnesota.
- Pain – 11 percent.
- Contusions (bruises) – 10 percent
- Fractures – 10 percent
- Open wounds – 7 percent.
The highest percentage of injuries happened during falls. Men were more commonly injured than women.
If you have experienced a similar injury at work, you probably have a lot of questions about whether you might qualify for benefits. An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can guide you through the process and help you fight for the benefits you need and deserve.