Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, is a law firm dedicated to helping victims of work-related falling and flying object accidents and injuries. Falling and flying objects are a common hazard in many workplaces, including construction sites, factories, and warehouses. These accidents can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries, and can even be fatal.
The attorneys at Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on the lives of victims and their families. They are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to help injured workers’ recover the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a work-related falling or flying object accident, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is important. Our attorneys have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for your rights. Contact them today to schedule a consultation and learn how they can help you get the compensation you need to move forward after a workplace accident.
Statistics on Falling and Flying Object Accidents and Injuries in Florida
According to data from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 4,780 workplace injuries and illnesses resulted from falling objects in Florida in 2020. Additionally, 590 workplace injuries and illnesses resulted from workers’ being struck by objects or equipment.
In terms of fatalities, there were 40 workplace deaths in Florida in 2020 due to falls, slips, and trips. While the BLS does not specifically break down fatalities by falling or flying objects, these accidents often contribute to falls that result in fatalities.
It is important to note that these statistics only capture reported injuries and fatalities, and many workplace accidents go unreported. Employers should prioritize workplace safety and prevent falling and flying object accidents, such as providing protective equipment and training employees on proper safety protocols.
Common Causes of Falling Object Accidents in Florida
A variety of factors can cause falling object accidents in Florida. Some of the most common causes of falling object accidents on the job in Florida include:
- Lack of proper storage: When objects are not stored properly, they can easily fall and cause injury. This is especially common in workplaces where heavy machinery and equipment are used.
- Improper stacking: Objects stacked too high or unevenly can easily topple over and injure workers’.
- Failure to secure objects: Objects that are not properly secured, such as tools or equipment, can fall and cause injury.
- Negligence in construction sites: Construction sites are particularly susceptible to falling object accidents due to a large amount of materials and equipment used. Negligence in securing objects, failing to use proper safety equipment, or not following safety protocols can all contribute to falling object accidents.
- Human error: Falling object accidents can also be caused by human error, such as dropping objects or failing to inspect equipment properly.
- Mechanical failure: Faulty machinery or equipment can cause objects to fall unexpectedly, leading to accidents and injuries.
- Overhead hazards: Workers’ can be struck by objects falling from heights, such as tools or construction materials being hoisted or lifted.
- Lack of safety barriers: If no safety barriers or guardrails are in place, workers’ may be at risk of falling objects that can strike them from above.
- Inadequate training: Workers’ who are not properly trained on safety protocols or how to handle equipment are at a higher risk of being involved in falling object accidents.
- Poor lighting: Low light conditions can make it difficult to see falling objects, increasing the risk of accidents.
Preventing falling object accidents in the workplace requires a comprehensive approach that addresses all potential causes of these accidents.
If You’ve Been Injured On The Job Call us today at 561-687-5660 or contact us online using our free and secure submission form. We are available 24/7 to assist you and offer FREE initial consultations.
Common Injuries Caused by Falling Object Accidents
Falling object accidents can cause various injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to serious and life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common injuries caused by falling object accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): When a heavy object falls and strikes a workers’ head, it can result in a traumatic brain injury, which can cause long-term damage or even be fatal.
- Spinal cord injury: Falling objects can also cause spinal cord injuries, resulting in paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
- Broken bones: Falling objects can break bones in any part of the body, including the arms, legs, ribs, and skull.
- Soft tissue injuries: Falling objects can cause soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and contusions.
- Cuts and lacerations: Sharp objects can cause cuts and lacerations, which can require stitches and may result in scarring.
- Internal injuries: If a heavy object strikes a workers’ abdomen, it can cause internal injuries that may require surgery.
- Psychological trauma: Falling object accidents can be traumatic for workers’ and may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological conditions.
Workers’ injured in falling object accidents should seek medical attention as soon as possible and report the accident to their employer.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Falling or Flying Object Accidents and Injuries
In Florida, workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory for most employers, and it benefits workers’ who are injured or become ill due to their job duties. This includes workers’ who are injured in falling or flying object accidents on the job.
Under Florida law, workers’ compensation benefits may cover the following expenses related to a falling or flying object accident:
- Medical expenses: Workers’ compensation benefits can cover the costs of medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, hospitalization, surgeries, and medication.
- Lost wages: If a worker cannot work due to their injuries, they may be eligible for wage replacement benefits to cover their lost income.
- Disability benefits: Workers’ who are permanently disabled due to their injuries may be eligible for disability benefits.
- Rehabilitation: Workers’ compensation benefits can also cover rehabilitation costs, such as physical and occupational therapy.
To receive workers’ compensation benefits for a falling or flying object accident, the injured worker must report the accident to their employer immediately and file a workers’ compensation claim with the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation. Employers must provide workers’ with information on how to file a claim and may be held liable for failing to do so.
Contact Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, for Help with Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you or a loved one has been injured in a falling or flying object accident at work, it is important to seek legal representation to help you navigate the complex process of obtaining workers’ compensation benefits and, if necessary, filing a personal injury claim. The attorneys at
Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, has extensive experience representing clients who have suffered injuries due to workplace accidents, including falling or flying object accidents.
They understand the challenges injured workers’ face and are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to help them recover the compensation they deserve. With a deep knowledge of workers’ compensation laws and personal injury litigation, they will work tirelessly to ensure their clients receive the best possible outcome for their cases.
If you need assistance with a falling or flying object accident claim, contact Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how they can help you get the compensation and justice you deserve.