Most people need their jobs to continue providing for the ones they love. Missing time from work can result in lost wages, which in turn, can lead to financial hardships. When a work injury is responsible for lost income, you may wonder what you can do to reduce the hardships that are sure to follow. Workers’ compensation exists for just this reason, but some people hesitate to file a claim.
Virginia foodservice workers face many safety hazards in the workplace. While they may not seem serious enough to file a workers’ compensation claim, it is always your right to do so. Among the injuries restaurant employees incur, these are a few of the most common.
- Burns: Working in the foodservice industry means working around very hot surfaces daily. Even with attention to safety, serious burn injuries can occur, placing limits on the way you function.
- Slips and falls: Restaurant employees often encounter slippery floors and other wet surfaces. What often seems like a simple fall can result in head wounds, broken bones or other injuries.
- Cuts and lacerations: Very sharp instruments are present in most food service establishments. Workers can suffer an array of wounds from such instruments from minor to quite severe.
- Ergonomic injuries: Performing the same work tasks repeatedly can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome or other ergonomic injuries. Over time, these injuries can reach a severity that limits your ability to work.
The list above represents a fraction of the work-related injuries that can take you away from your job. Instead of hoping for a swift recovery, consider filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you encounter resistance when filing or if you receive a workers’ compensation claim denial notice, a law professional can help you get the benefits that you are due.
