Dealing With Unsafe Conditions at Work

One of the last things that you want to worry about while you are working diligently at your job is suffering from an accident or illness as the result of a dangerous condition at your workplace. Despite the many state and federal laws that apply to employers, job-related injuries are all too common. Fortunately, there are specific legal rights that apply to workers in order to help them obtain the compensation they need from their employers to cover medical bills and related expenses. The injury lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have represented many Baltimore residents in a wide variety of accident cases, including those arising in the employment context. We give each client the time and attention that they deserve and can aggressively assert their rights.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, some of the most common situations in which work-related injuries occur are construction, industrial manufacturing, and transportation. Employees in these industries suffer injuries more frequently than workers in other employment capacities. Regardless of the type of job you have, if you suffer an injury as the result of your employer’s failure to maintain a safe workplace, or your employer refuses to address an unsafe condition, you should report the incident immediately. There are many laws at the federal and local levels designed to protect workers, and numerous sources to provide information and assistance to both employers and employees.

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) imposes specific laws that employers must follow to ensure worker safety. Many states have imposed similar laws as well. For example, the Maryland Occupational Safety and Health division, or MOSH, maintains consultation services, educational programs, and public outreach to ensure and promote workplace safety. In Washington, D.C., workers can contact the Office of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) to learn more about onsite consultation services and ensuring a safe and healthy workplace. The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration, known as OSHA, maintains a hotline for workers to report employers’ failures to address dangerous conditions and the injuries that are caused as a result: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742). Of course, if you or your coworker needs immediate medical attention, dial 911.

Some of the most common injuries that workers suffer include broken bones and fractures, neck and back injuries, spinal cord damage, burn injuries, or vision and hearing loss. Examples of the types of damages that an injured employee may be able to recover include medical expenses, physical therapy, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering. Another common category of injuries involves chemical exposure and the illnesses that an employee can contract as a result, such as asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.

Unfortunately, in some severe situations an accident or illness results in the death of an employee. In this situation, the deceased employee’s loved ones may bring a claim for loss of consortium, which acknowledges the loss of their loved one’s companionship, affection, love, and support as a result of the accident. A claim for loss of consortium is limited to certain family members, typically referred to as beneficiaries.

At Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers, our workplace accident attorneys have spent over 20 years fighting for the rights of Maryland employees. We also represent workers in Washington, D.C. Our team of seasoned professionals is prepared to guide you through each step of the legal process and to help you seek the compensation that you deserve. Suffering an injury at work can create substantial financial, emotional, and physical stress for a victim and his or her family. Our attorneys are here to help. Call us now at (800) 654-1949 or contact us online to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.