Colburn Law

Industries Prone to Work Injuries in Washington

No one wants to get hurt at work, but when an accident happens, the consequences can be severe. Workplace safety is a concern across all industries, but some sectors face higher risks of occupational injuries and illnesses than others. In Washington state, certain industries consistently report higher rates of accidents, which may be due to the dangers inherent to their working environments.

Contact a Seattle personal injury attorney today if you or a loved one was injured at work.

Trade, Transportation, and Utilities

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the trade, transportation, and utilities industry is one of two sectors that, while accounting for 37% of private industry employment, were responsible for 49% of occupational injuries and illnesses in 2022. This sector reported a rate of 5.3 injuries per 100 full-time employees, almost twice as high as the overall national workplace injury average of 2.7.

This elevated risk may stem from various factors. For example, the physical demands of jobs in warehousing, logistics, and retail can often result in overexertion and repetitive stress injuries. The hazards associated with operating heavy machinery and vehicles may put employees at risk of even more severe damage, such as crush injuries or struck-by accidents.

Education and Health Services

The education and health services sector is the second major private industry contributor to workplace injuries and illnesses. With a rate of 5.7 cases per 100 full-time employees, compared to the national average of 2.7, workers in this industry face significant occupational risks.

For example, nurses often suffer back injuries from lifting and transferring patients. Teachers may develop repetitive strain injuries from writing on boards or using computers for extended periods. Additionally, education and healthcare workers are at a high risk of contracting infectious diseases and experiencing violence at the hands of unstable patients, students, and other individuals.

State and Local Government Workers

In the public sector, state and local government workers in Washington suffer injuries and illnesses at an alarming rate. In 2022, the government reported 25,000 injury and illness cases, resulting in a rate of 7.7 cases per 100 full-time workers. Local government workers bore the brunt of these incidents, accounting for 64 percent of reported injuries and illnesses in Washington’s public sector.

What to Do If You Were Injured at Work in Washington

If you have been injured on the job in Washington, you have the right to pursue a workers’ compensation claim. This system is designed to provide medical benefits and wage replacement to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Taking the following steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim for benefits:

• Immediately notify your employer about the injury, providing details about how, when, and where the accident occurred.
• Visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible, even if the injury seems minor. Follow all treatment recommendations and keep records of your visits.
• Collect any relevant information about your injury, including witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, and copies of medical records.
• Speak with a Washington workers’ compensation lawyer who can guide you through the claims process and protect your interests.

Speak to an Attorney at Colburn Law Today

No matter which industry you work in, you deserve a safe workplace. If you have been injured on the job in Washington, Colburn Law can help. We have experience handling workers’ compensation claims across various industries and will advocate for the maximum benefits possible. Contact us today at (206) 919-3215 to discuss your situation with a Seattle workers compensation attorney.