What Are The Most Common Workplace Injuries?

Workplace injuries affect employees in every industry. In 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 5,283 fatal occupational injuries. Many more workers suffered nonfatal harm that led to time off work, high medical bills, and lasting complications.

The most common workplace injuries include:

These incidents are often preventable. If you sustained injuries on the job, the team at Arash Law can explain your legal options and guide you through your next steps. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.

The Most Common Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries can happen anywhere, even in offices that seem safe. Studies show that 80% to 90% of job-related accidents are due to human error. Many of these incidents could be prevented with proper training, hazard awareness, and adherence to safety protocols.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of some common injuries in the workplace:

Injuries From Slips, Trips, And Falls

Slips, trips, and falls remain among the top causes of workplace injuries. These incidents often result from:

These hazards are common in workplaces such as restaurants, car washes, hotels, supermarkets, construction sites, airports, and amusement parks.

According to the National Safety Council, 8.5 million people were treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries in 2022. These injuries can lead to long-term pain, costly treatments, and extended time off work. In severe cases, falls may cause permanent disability.

Common fall-related injuries include:

Falls are also a major contributor to workplace deaths. In 2022, 865 workers died due to this type of incident. In 2023, nearly 1 in 5 workplace deaths occurred in the construction industry, with 38.5% of these fatalities attributed to slips, trips, and falls.

These accidents often have life-altering consequences. Arash Law’s slip-and-fall attorneys help injured workers pursue compensation for their medical bills, lost income, and long-term recovery. We also represent families in wrongful death claims when falls result in fatal injuries.

Injuries From Overexertion

Overexertion is one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. It often occurs when the physical demands of a task exceed the body’s limits. These injuries are frequent in construction, manufacturing, transportation, and office or retail settings.

Workers face overexertion injuries due to:

• Lifting or carrying heavy objects.
• Repeating the same motion without rest.
• Working in cramped or awkward positions.
• Using damaged or difficult-to-operate tools.

These actions can lead to:

• Shoulder and back injuries.
• Muscle strains and tears.
• Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons).
• Carpal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression in the wrist).
• Rotator cuff damage (shoulder tendon injury).

Overexertion can develop suddenly or gradually. Some symptoms may not appear right away, especially with soft tissue injuries.

If you experience signs of overexertion, apply the RICE method:

• Rest the affected area.
• Ice to reduce swelling.
• Compress with a bandage for support.
• Elevate above heart level if possible.

Always seek prompt medical care and report the injury to your employer. In California, you can see your doctor if you have predesignated them before the injury occurred. Make sure your provider knows the injury happened at work so that your claim can be documented properly.

If your employer denies your injury or delays your care, our workplace injury attorneys at Arash Law can step in. We’ll help you access proper treatment, file a workers’ compensation claim, and pursue any additional compensation you may be entitled to.

Injuries From Contact With Objects Or Equipment

Workplace injuries often result from contact with equipment, machinery, or objects. In 2021–2022, employers reported 780,690 DART (Days Away from Work, Job Restriction, or Transfer) cases. Of those, 450,050 led to time off work.

Statistic Source: National Safety Council

These injuries frequently involve:

• Being struck by falling or flying objects.
• Getting caught in moving machinery.
• Being crushed by equipment or structures.
• Contact with animals.
• Physical contact with other individuals.

Service industries accounted for about 65% of these incidents, with the remaining 35% in goods-producing sectors. Even nonfatal injuries can make it hard to work or earn an income. Serious cases may cause long-term disability.

These injuries often happen because of:

• Missing machine guards
• Defective equipment
• Lack of safety gear
• Poor safety enforcement

You can file a workers’ compensation claim if you were hurt while doing your job, even if no one was at fault. However, another person or company outside your workplace may have caused the accident in some cases. This might happen if the equipment was defective or someone else failed to keep it safe, in which case, you may also have a third-party claim. These claims allow you to seek additional compensation beyond what workers’ comp provides.

Arash Law can help with both types of claims. We’ll guide you through the workers’ comp process, and our personal injury lawyers can determine if a third-party claim is available. That way, you have a good chance of recovering the full amount you claim.

Injuries From Exposure To Harmful Substances Or Environments

If your job exposed you to harmful substances or dangerous environments, you’re not alone. Thousands of workers face these risks every year, often without warning. In 2022, about 634,080 workers were exposed to harmful substances and needed time off work to recover.

Common hazards include:

• Toxic chemicals
• Very hot or cold temperatures
• High noise levels
• Radiation or electrical contact
• Low oxygen levels or air pressure changes

Some injuries appear right away. Others take time to develop. Either way, exposure can lead to serious health problems that affect your ability to work and live normally.

Immediate effects of chemical exposure:

• Burns
• Breathing problems
• Skin and eye irritation
• Dizziness or confusion
• Loss of consciousness

Long-term effects of repeated exposure:

• Cancer (e.g., mesothelioma from asbestos or benzene).
• Nerve damage (e.g., from solvents or mercury).
• Lung diseases (like asthma or asbestosis).
• Reproductive issues (from pesticides or toxins).
• Kidney or liver damage.
• Blood disorders (like leukemia from formaldehyde).

Always report work-related exposure injuries as soon as possible. Some conditions, such as cancer, mesothelioma, or respiratory illnesses, may not appear until long after the exposure occurred. If you are diagnosed with a serious illness and think your job may be the cause, let your doctor know and describe your work history in detail.

In California, the clock to file a claim usually starts when you know, or should know, your condition is job-related. Report it quickly to protect your rights.

If your job exposed you to hazardous substances and proper safety steps weren’t followed, our lawyers can help. You may qualify for workers’ compensation. In some cases, if a third party created or supplied unsafe materials, you may also have a separate negligence claim. Arash Law will help you explore all available options and make sure your rights are protected.

Roadway Incident Injuries

If you drive for work, you face daily risks on the road. According to the National Safety Council, there were 68,560 roadway-related DART cases in 2021–2022. Of those, 54,830 workers had to take time off to recover.

These injuries happen during job-related travel and can involve:

• Public roads and highways.
• Nearby shoulders or roadside areas.
• Fixed objects like poles, signs, or trees.

Here are some of the injuries or illnesses that victims sustained:

Many of these injuries are caused by motor vehicle accidents, such as the following:

Recovering from a roadway injury often means missing work and mounting medical bills. If another driver or a third party was at fault, you may be able to file both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party liability claim.

At Arash Law, our car accident lawyers help injured workers like you understand their rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation.

Other Common Workplace Injuries

Specific hazards, like fire, explosions, and workplace violence, pose significant risks to employees’ safety and well-being. While less frequent, these incidents can lead to severe consequences for individuals and organizations.

• Fires And Explosions — From 2018 to 2022, an average of 1,508 warehouse fires occurred each year. These were often caused by:
  • • Faulty wiring
    • Welding or hot work
    • Improper storage of flammable materials
    • Friction or sparks from machines

  Injuries from fires and explosions include:

  • • Burns (from mild to life-threatening).
    • Blast injuries (internal damage or blunt trauma).
    • Broken bones or fractures.

  These injuries often require emergency care, long recovery periods, and specialized treatments like skin grafts or physical therapy.

• Workplace Violence — Workplace violence is also a growing concern. In 2023, 740 workers died due to violent incidents, including 458 homicides. Jobs in security, transportation, retail, and healthcare carry higher risks.

  Common injuries from workplace violence include:

  • Head injuries, including concussions.
  • Cuts, bruises, and broken bones.
  • Strains from trying to escape or defend oneself.
  • Post-traumatic stress and emotional distress.

After a traumatic incident, many workers also suffer from anxiety, depression, or sleep problems. These effects can last long after physical wounds heal.

You may qualify for workers’ compensation if you were hurt in a fire, explosion, or violent workplace event. In some cases, you may also be able to file a third-party claim if poor security, faulty equipment, or another party’s actions contributed to the harm.

The workplace injury lawyers at Arash Law are here to support you through recovery and work towards recovering the compensation you need to move forward.

Identifying Common Causes Of Work Accidents

Understanding what causes workplace accidents can help you stay safer on the job. Whether you work behind a desk or in a high-risk environment, certain hazards show up across industries — and they’re often preventable.

Human Factors

Sometimes, injuries happen because of decisions made in the moment or because the workplace doesn’t provide the right support. You may be more likely to get hurt when:

• You’re tired from long shifts without breaks.
• You’re distracted or overwhelmed.
• Safety procedures aren’t clearly explained.
• Your employer skips regular training.
• When you’re pushed to meet deadlines or multitask without proper support, it increases the chance of something going wrong.

External Factors Contributing To Accidents

Other injuries come from unsafe conditions around you. You may have been put at risk if your workplace had:

• Poor lighting that made hazards hard to see.
• Slippery floors that weren’t cleaned or marked.
• Machinery left on or unguarded.
• Tools or chemicals are stored the wrong way.
• Extreme heat or cold without proper safety gear.

Employers are legally required to maintain safe working conditions. Workers like you can suffer serious harm if they fail to fix known hazards or ignore safety rules.

You may have legal options if unsafe conditions or preventable mistakes contributed to your injury. Speaking with a qualified workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your next steps and what type of claim may apply to your situation.

Most Frequently Cited Violations In Workplaces

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes a list of the most common workplace safety violations yearly. These trends highlight where many employers fall short and where workers are often put at risk.

It’s not just about the physical environment, either. Poor policies, inadequate safety protocols, and insufficient supervision can also contribute to accidents. When employees feel pressured to meet production targets, they might cut corners and engage in unsafe behaviors.

Here are the most frequently violated OSHA standards in 2024:

Violations can lead to serious injuries if not corrected. If your workplace failed to follow safety regulations and you were hurt, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. In some cases, violations may also support a third-party liability case, especially if the safety failure involves an outside contractor or equipment provider.

Understanding your rights under OSHA and California labor laws can help you respond quickly after an accident. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can review your situation and explain available options.

Injury Prevention Tips

While not every workplace injury is avoidable, simple safety steps can reduce risk. Whether you work at a desk or on a job site, staying aware and following precautions can make a real difference.

Here are some ways you can protect yourself on the job:

1. Follow Safety Protocols — Use the proper equipment and follow your employer’s guidelines, especially for tasks involving machinery or chemicals.
2. Lift With Care — Bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and avoid twisting while lifting to prevent overexertion injuries. Ask for help with heavy loads.
3. Watch For Hazards — Stay alert to spills, blocked walkways, exposed wires, or faulty equipment.
4. Take Regular Breaks — Short, regular breaks help prevent overuse injuries and mental fatigue.
5. Report Hazards Immediately — Report unsafe conditions right away. Don’t assume someone else will handle it.

Even when you do everything right, accidents can still happen. If you’ve been injured at work, an attorney can help you understand your rights and what benefits or compensation may be available.

Questions People Commonly Ask About Workplace Injuries

If you’re dealing with a work injury, you probably have many questions about what to do next, what benefits you qualify for, and whether you need legal help. You’re not the only one. We hear these same concerns from workers across California every day.

Below are some of the most common questions we get and clear answers to help you make informed decisions. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for more specific guidance to schedule a free, personalized case review.

Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me?

Yes, especially if your job involves high-risk tasks like driving, construction, or heavy lifting. A lawyer can help you file your workers’ comp claim, handle paperwork, speak to insurance companies on your behalf, and check if a third party may be responsible for your injury. Local attorneys also understand California-specific rules and timelines.

Is My Injury Severe Enough To File A Claim?

It doesn’t have to be severe. Even minor injuries, like sprains, repetitive motion pain, or strain from lifting, can qualify if they happened while you were working. If the injury affects your ability to do your job or requires medical care, it’s worth reporting and getting legal advice.

What If My Workplace Injury Developed Over Time? Can I Still File A Claim?

Yes. In California, you can file a claim for injuries that develop slowly, such as back strain or carpal tunnel syndrome. Here are the important deadlines you need to keep an eye on:

• 30-Day Reporting Rule — You must report your injury or illness to your employer within 30 days of knowing it’s work-related. Failing to report it within this timeframe may limit or prevent you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits.
• Workers’ Compensation Deadlines
  • Standard Injury — You generally have one year from the date of injury to file a workers’ compensation claim.
  • Cumulative Trauma or Occupational Illness — If your injury developed over time, such as back strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, or work-related cancer, the one-year limit starts from the date you first knew (or should have known) that your job caused your condition.
• Third-Party Personal Injury Claims — If someone other than your employer caused your injury, such as a contractor, driver, or equipment manufacturer, you may also have a third-party personal injury claim. In California, the deadline or statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of injury.

It’s important to act quickly. A lawyer can help you understand these deadlines, gather proper documentation, and protect your right to compensation.

Get Help With Your Work Injury Claim

If you’ve been hurt at work, the legal process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re also dealing with pain, missed paychecks, and medical appointments. Our legal team is here to help you understand your options and assist with every step of your workers’ compensation or third-party claim.

We’ll explain your rights, handle paperwork, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf. If another party besides your employer contributed to your injury, we can help assess whether a separate legal claim may apply.

We offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options after a workplace injury. If you choose to work with us, we operate on a contingency fee basis. That means you won’t owe any legal fees unless compensation is recovered through a settlement or verdict in your case.

Please note: while legal fees are only due upon recovery, clients may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, such as filing fees, medical records, or expert evaluations, regardless of outcome. During your consultation, we’ll explain all potential expenses so you know what to expect.

To learn more or get started, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form. We’re here to listen and provide the legal support you may need.